The first of its kind when instigated some 35 years ago, the Sharks Grand Final Luncheon is still going strong, with the 2014 edition set to once again provide the perfect lead-in to the biggest weekend on the rugby league calendar.
Rugby league identities and Sharks NRL players, along with a couple of the clubs up and comers, will be on stage discussing pertinent issues, a performance from highly regarded comedian Paul Martell, in addition to raffles and auctions points to another Sharks Grand Final luncheon not to be missed.
In recounting one of the most memorable Grand Finals in recent history, the 1999 decider between the Dragons and Storm, this years’ luncheon brings together the three men from that very game who combined to make it the one of the most talked about matches of all time.
Bill Harrigan was the referee, an unheralded winger in Craig Smith was involved in the thick of the action, while Chris Ward held the hopes of both clubs at his fingertips as the video referee who had to adjudicate on an incident that would ultimately determine the outcome of the match.
The trio will be on stage and together for the first time since that game some 15 years ago to explain the role they played in one of the most dramatic moments in Grand Final history.
Ward said penalty try, Harrigan agreed, while a concussed Smith was helped to his feet amidst the cheers of the Storm faithful and the jeers from the 1000’s of Dragons fans watching on.
What went through their heads at the time, how did they come up with the game-defining decision and what were the repercussions? All will be revealed on stage at the Sharks Grand Final Luncheon.
Fox Sports personality Matt Russell, a man highly respected in sporting media and someone with a vast knowledge of rugby league, will be the Master of Ceremonies.
Tickets are still available for $1500 + GST per table or $160 + GST per individual ticket, with the entry price inclusive of beverages, a three-course meal and all the entertainment on the afternoon.
Kick-off to the luncheon is a 12noon, full time at 4.00pm, with the event to be held in the Auditorium at Sharkies Leagues.
It’s not too late to secure a seat, contact Kylie Lucas at Sharks on 02 9527 8279 or via email at [email protected] to book your place.
