Even Peter Sleap admits there’s a different feel about Sleapy’s Day this year.
As the popular community event advances towards its 16th edition, the charity’s co-founder can’t wait for Saturday 18 July.
And, that’s for two reasons.
Firstly, the South Newcastle tragic – who won two premierships at the club – is quietly-confident the Lions can finally upstage traditional rivals Maitland Pickers at Townson Oval.
But, secondly, and more importantly, he had an extraordinary bond with the four Angels that Sleapy’s Foundation will honour in 2026.
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.
“Obviously, Sleapy’s Day is our biggest fundraiser,” the Newcastle Citizen of the Year said.
“Already, we’ve sold out of platinum and gold sponsorship packages, with limited numbers for silver and bronze.
“However, the occasion’s become very special for so many others, too.
“I’ll give you an example.
“Robynn and I visited Tamworth the other weekend and there were people there who came up to us and said: ‘I’ll see you at Sleapy’s Day’.
“That’s unbelievable when you’ve travelled four hours [away] and someone says that to you in the middle of the bush.
“It adds an element of excitement to what we’re doing.
“However, that feeling is also tempered by our unique way of commemorating our Angels.
“I have a huge deep, personal connection to all four.
“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.”
As for the on-field showdown, Sleapy remains upbeat about the Lions’ chances of stopping the Pickers’ juggernaut.
“Souths just recently beat Maitland on their home turf, which is a rare occurrence,” he told the Newcastle Weekly.
“That now sets it up for an incredible showdown at Townson Oval.
“The Pickers will be looking for revenge, while the Lions are hoping to prevent them from securing their fourth consecutive win on Sleapy’s Day.
“It’s funny, I’ll wear two hats here.
“If I don my Souths’ one, their efforts this year give me a lot of hope.
“But, if I’m wearing my Sleapy’s hat, it won’t make a difference.
“I honestly think it adds something when Maitland comes down and beats the Lions… people keep returning to see if Souths can strike back.
“To their credit, the Pickers have been simply fantastic.
“They’ve embraced the concept and really come to the party.
“I believe the Lions, especially the past few seasons, have seen how professional Maitland is.
“Clearly, they’ve got a good side… but they play as a team, they just gel.
“Souths have taken that on board and learned a lot.
“So, this year, I believe they’re going to do a Maitland on Maitland, as long as everyone stays fit.
“It’ll be an epic battle… I predict, by the time the match comes around, we’ll see first versus second again.
“In fact, I’d be very surprised if both clubs aren’t in the grand final.”
For more community stories:
- Hunter duo to receive Distinguished Long Service honours
- Improved access to food, necessities in Hamilton
- Mark Hughes Foundation commits $18.9m to brain cancer research
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