The McKinlay Shire has once again been a victim of drought with many property owners selling cattle for less than the fuel it costs to get them to auction.

Plumber Adam Hartley and local Senior Constable David McNab last year decided to create Town v Country – a football event to bring together members of the community. 

It is now Julia Creek’s biggest event of the year outside of the town’s Dirt n’ Dust Triathlon.

The benefits have had far wider reach than just lifting the morale of the town, with one business stating their profit was on par with what it reaps from the Dirt ‘N’ Dust.

Senior Constable McNab says the event has attracted the support from the game’s highest level.

“Knowing everyone is benefiting from this, businesses, locals, gives the town a sense of achievement,” he said. 

“The NRL and QRL have been so supportive in getting behind this event, especially in organising NRL legend Petero Civoniceva to attend again, it’s going to be as memorable as last year.”

Local businesses and individuals immediately put forward donations to support the venture in whatever form they could with jerseys, trophies, bar support and food.

Joint organiser Adam Hartley said the match united the community.

“This football match really has brought the community together; we have boys that are willing to play for either side if needed to get this game happening,” he said. 

“This is what it is all about, not just a great game of competitive football but a game where we will all unite at the end of the match with pride and mateship.”

Mayor Belinda Murphy said events such as the rugby league clash were critical for social interaction in the community, bringing physical and mental health benefits. 

“It has been a really hard year for everyone in the drought declared western Shires and it is so wonderful to see great people in our community from police and local business develop this outside their working commitments,” she said. 

“It will be a great afternoon for our children and a great night for the community.”

The match starts at Kev Bannah Oval at 6.30pm tonight.