Local frontline workers will swap their uniforms for sporting gear this week to compete in the first-ever Jersey Day Cup, raising awareness for organ and tissue donation.
Police, paramedics and hospital staff are set to participate in the community touch football tournament at Hunter Barnett Field, Windale, on Friday 5 September.
The event honours Nathan Gremmo, who was fatally injured at age 13 in a motor vehicle accident in May 2015.
In a show of respect to his generous personality, his family chose to register him as an organ donor.
The decision saved the lives of six people: five young adults and a baby.
The Gremmos then founded Jersey Day the same year as a tribute to Nathan’s kindness.
Now, 10 years on, their small act has grown into a national movement.
The annual tradition sees schools, workplaces, sporting clubs and even Prime Minister Anthony Albanese wear their favourite jerseys to spark conversations about organ donation.
But, 2025 marks a decade since Nathan’s passing, with the launch of the Jersey Day Cup adding a new chapter to his legacy.
John Hunter Hospital donation specialist nurse Louise Umbers said Newcastle had one of the strongest organ donor registration rates in the country, with 55% of eligible residents registered, compared to the national average of 36%.
“Events like the Jersey Day Cup help keep the conversation alive,” she explained.
“Families are more likely to say yes to donation if their loved one was registered.
“Newcastle is leading the way… and that community spirit is something we want to see right across NSW.”
While the local area leads the way, registrations across NSW have fallen by 11% in the past 12 months, with 1,800 Australians waiting for a transplant and more than 14,000 on dialysis.
“The need is urgent,” Ms Umbers said.
“The Jersey Day Cup shines a light on the incredible efforts of our local first responders and hospital staff, while honouring donors and their families.
“Newcastle is showing what is possible when a community gets behind organ and tissue donation.
“Events like this spark conversations and inspire registrations.”
Those eligible can register as an organ and tissue donor at donatelife.gov.au or through their Medicare account.
Six teams, including NSW Ambulance’s Singleton Special Ops, Newcastle Police and Newcastle Police Detectives, Calvary Mater Hospital, John Hunter Hospital and DonateLife NSW, will face off in a round-robin competition at the Jersey Day Cup from 1pm.
For more community stories:
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- UoN Early Entry applications set to close soon
- Runner’s non-stop journey from Sydney to Newcastle for charity
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