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Mark Hughes Foundation a $4m ‘beanie-ficiary’ after NRL round

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The 2022 NRL Beanie for Brain Cancer Round exceeded all expectations for the MHF, according to founder Mark Hughes.

Before the popular campaign kicked off at the weekend, the Newcastle-based organisation was hoping to raise $3m for research.

But, with more than 170,000 beanies sold, the Mark Hughes Foundation is expected to hit the $4m mark, with donations still coming in.

Significant financial contributions were also made throughout “Beanie Round”.

The Big Three Trek, consisting of 45 trekkers who departed NRL HQ in Sydney on Wednesday, clocked up 150km to arrive at McDonald Jones Stadium on Friday evening, raising $177,000 in the process.

Sportsbet chipped in with $58,000, too, after 58 tries were scored in round 16 ($1,000 per try).

Newcastle wingers Edrick Lee and Dominic Young played their part in that total, with five and three four-pointers respectively in their side’s victory over the Gold Coast Titans.

“This year our thoughts are first and foremost with the families that have been through the brain cancer journey and lost a loved one,” Hughes said.

“The courage these families show in still being by our side after their loss, and to want to help others, is so inspiring.

“They are on our minds as we continue on our quest to find the answers to this horrible disease.

“Behind the scenes, there are so many people who give so much to make this round happen.

Cronulla Sharks star Nicho Hynes and Newcastle Knights legend Mark Hughes. Photo: Grant Trouville © NRL Photos

“I would like to acknowledge the NRL, Nine, Fox League and all the staff and media for coming together for our cause and helping the message reach so many Australians.

“I’d also like to make mention of my small MHF team and amazing volunteers who work around the clock to bring this round to life.

“There’s now $4m going direct to brain cancer research because of every Australian who chose to make a difference this week.”

NRL CEO Andrew Abdo echoed Hughes’ sentiments, stating they were thrilled to play such an important role.

“This is a great example of the game coming together to make a positive difference,” he said.

“Thank you to everyone in the community for contributing and congratulations to the Mark Hughes Foundation on this year’s achievements.

“Together we are raising awareness and funds to enable research to fight brain cancer and help save lives.”

The annual “beanie” initiative certainly started on the right note.

A new $25m Mark Hughes Foundation Centre for Brain Cancer Research was unveiled at the University of Newcastle.

“This type of announcement doesn’t exist without the NRL, rugby league and wider community bringing brain cancer to the forefront, raising awareness and funds and giving hope to every brain cancer patient and family out there,” Hughes said.

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