Daley Brings Origin Shield to Junee Ex-Services

More than 300 people gathered at the Club for an unforgettable evening, with Daley joined by NSWRL CEO David Trodden and Parramatta Eels great Brett Kenny on a ‘Footy Show’ style panel.

Daley, fresh off guiding NSW to a famous backs-against-the-wall series win over Queensland on 8 July, triumphantly hoisted the prized shield above his head in a clear highlight from the sold-out event.

“The thunderous applause and roar from the crowd was a fitting tribute to both the game's rich history and the pride the Junee community holds for its rugby league legends,” Junee Ex-Services Memorial Club General Manager Simon Broad said.

“It was a moment that will be remembered by everyone in attendance for many years to come.”

Origin glory wasn’t the only feat Daley was celebrating — the night also marked 40 years since the Junee Diesels completed an historic clean sweep of the under 18s, reserve grade and first grade competitions in 1986.

The first grade side featured a 16-year-old Daley, who starred in a 10-6 win over Young with the trademark footwork and composure that would soon propel him to stardom for the Canberra Raiders, NSW and Australia.

Guided by emcee Jason Ferrario, Daley, Kenny and premiership-winning '86 Diesels captain-coach Brian Gray regaled attendees with behind-the-scenes tales from their storied careers — “keeping the audience laughing one moment and completely captivated the next”, according to Broad.

Image Above — Brian Gray, Laurie Daley, Brett Kenny

“The Junee Rugby League centenary celebrations not only honoured a century of local rugby league but also celebrated 100 years of players, coaches, life members, volunteers, supporters and families whose dedication has helped shape one of the region's proudest sporting traditions,” Broad added.

Fittingly, the Diesels defeated Young in first grade and reserve grade clashes at Laurie Daley Oval earlier in the day.