When Newcastle Citizen of the Year Peter Sleap promises Sleapy’s Day will be the “best ever” in 2026, you’d better believe him.
As the popular event eyes off its 16th edition, anticipation is high among the team behind Sleapy’s Foundation ahead of this weekend’s extravaganza.
Not only are four rugby league matches planned at Townson Oval on Saturday 18 July, accompanied by plenty of entertainment, fun and frivolity, the city’s beloved Knights will join the fundraising fray as well.
“We can’t for it,” Sleapy said.
“We’ve already sold in excess of 2,500 tickets.
“However, this year, Newcastle’s NRL stars are heavily involved, too.
“Dylan Lucas has agreed to shave the head of a bloke with an afro, so they’re doing that ‘live’.
“And, I’m delighted Peter Parr (CEO), Chris James (director of football), coach Justin Holbrook and Frank Barrett (media manager) are on board, wanting to give back to the local community.
“The NEWRL, and clubs like South Newcastle and Maitland – who are contesting the Sleapy’s Shield – is part of the grassroots in the Knights’ backyard.
“This is where the region’s juniors hail from, whether it’s Cessnock, Lake Macquarie, Kurri Kurri or Port Stephens.
“It’s where local footy starts.
“At the end of the day, the kids from this area want to play for Newcastle.
“So, meeting and interacting with the players helps build that connection.
“We’ve also organised for the Souths’ under-9s (four sides) to participate on the day, which gives them a sense of ‘being involved’ with a big crowd, atmosphere and the Knights in attendance.
“I’m thrilled the likes of Peter, Chris, Justin and Frank understand, one, it’s back to the grassroots and, two, Sleapy’s Day is bigger than a football game.”
In 2026, the foundation will honour four beloved Angels.
That means the faces of Ash Jones, Miriama Purcell, Grant Rodgers and Mia Carnell are set to adorn the hosts’ playing jumpers when the combatants lock horns in the middle of the paddock.
“I have a huge deep, personal connection to all four,” Sleapy told the Newcastle Weekly.
“Ash is the son of Richard Jones, who I won a couple of rugby league titles with at Souths.
“Miriama’s the mother-in-law of James Taylor, a Pickers legend and current Lions player.
“Then we have Grant, a Souths Old Boy who had a long association with the junior club as well.
“And, last but by no means least, there’s Mia.
“We supported her for a long time before she passed away at the age of 24.
“I’ve known her legendary family for more than 40 years; one of the Carnells was our ballboy in 1988-89.
“So, they’ll be on the jerseys, with a new design this year, which I’m sure will be very sought after.”
Sleapy also praised the NEWRL outfits, the Lions and Pickers, for their continued support of the cause.
“What makes them fantastic to deal with is the fact they both realise it’s an event – a big event in Newcastle,” he said.
“It’s not just about sport.
“It’s about people coming together to support others who are doing it tough in their community.
“That’s the great thing about Souths and Maitland.
“They’re both very big community-engaged clubs, who are keen to give back, which is incredibly special.
“So, if you haven’t been to Sleapy’s Day before, now’s the chance.
“You can expect a terrific time and a party environment – it’s an experience.
“That’s probably the best way to describe it.
“It’s an experience beyond any local football match or community event they’ve attended.”
Tickets – which include entry, a BBQ lunch, beer, wine and soft drinks from noon – are still available.
Visit the foundation’s website.
The women’s fixture kicks off at 10.15am, with under-19s (11.45am), reserves (1.05pm) and firsts (3pm) to follow.
“Then the party continues back at Souths Merewether afterwards,” Sleapy said.
“The jumpers will be auctioned off, we’ll have a band and much more.”
For more community stories:
- Why Sleapy’s Day means everything to James Taylor
- Newcastle researcher leads national push to improve culturally-safe healthcare for Indigenous Australians
- Prestigious art prize back on Newcastle gallery’s radar
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