Mat Rogers brings Telstra goodwill

NRL stalwart Mat Rogers will give away sports equipment worth tens of thousands of dollars in Rockhampton today.

The former rugby international, who represented Australia in both league and union, retired last month from the Gold Coast Titans after a highly successful career.

Mat now works as an ambassador for the Telstra Assistance Fund, which has given away equipment worth more than $8.5 million to community and sporting clubs in Australia in the past seven years.

This afternoon he will continue the corporate largesse at the CQ Bid Leagues Club in Rockhampton by handing out gifts totalling close to $68,000 to 55 sports clubs from the Country Coast and Capricornia region.

Among the beneficiaries are junior rugby league teams in Yeppoon, Rockhampton, Woorabinda, Emerald, Theodore, Moura and Springsure and the Rocky City and Biloela swimming clubs.

Telstra area general manager Barbara Wells yesterday said she was proud that out of all the regions in Australia, hers was gaining the most in the latest round of grants.

?It?s fantastic to be able to provide this sort of assistance to clubs like these that provide opportunities for participation in our community,? she said.

?The equipment these clubs have received means they can provide some of the latest gear, boosting members? performance and passion for their sport.?

Mat is expected to offer a few coaching hints to junior players lucky enough to attend.

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