Cronulla Sharks prop, Luke Douglas, was one of the finalists at the Rugby League One Communtiy Awards held at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Sydney last night.

The One Community Awards recognise the outstanding contributions of individuals, clubs and players from across Australia to Rugby League and the community.

To celebrate these achievements, 23-year-old Douglas shared the limelight with his fellow NRL stars as well as the game’s grass-roots heroes.

While Parramatta’s Test forward, Nathan Hindmarsh, received the Telstra Ken Stephen Medal for community service after sidestepping a shoulder operation to attend the ceremony, Douglas was recognised for his outstanding service to the game both on and off the field.

“These awards recognise the important role Rugby League plays in communities across Australia,” said NRL Chief Executive, Mr David Gallop.

Previous Cronulla Sharks winners include Andrew Ettingshausen (1999) David Peachey (2003) and Jason Stevens (2005)

The 2009 One Community Telstra Ken Stephen Award finalists were:

Matt Bowen (North Queensland Cowboys); Preston Campbell (Gold Coast Titans); Justin Carney (Canberra Raiders); Petero Civoniceva (Penrith Panthers); Luke Douglas (Cronulla Sharks); Nathan Hindmarsh (Parramatta Eels); Nick Kenny (Brisbane Broncos);  Anthony Minichiello (Sydney Roosters); Corey Payne (Wests Tigers); Ben Rogers (Newcastle Knights); George Rose (Manly Sea Eagles); Andrew Ryan (Canterbury Bulldogs); Wendell Sailor (St George Illawarra Dragons); Jamie Simpson (South Sydney Rabbitohs); Manu Vatuvei (New Zealand Warriors); Brett White (Melbourne Storm).