The World Rugby Jersey Auction Appeal is being conducted by Spinal Cord Injuries Australia (SCIA) and the Dubbo Rhinos Rugby Union Club & Foundation (DRRUC&F).

• SCIA is an Australian Charitable organisation based in Sydney, NSW
• The DRRUC&F are situated in the Central West of NSW, Australia .

The Reason
One the Rhino's players, Wilson Te Whata, suffered a very serious neck injury in a training accident during the 1999 season – as a result it became obvious that there were deficiencies in, and a great need for, the provision of emergency funding for injured players. Also, as Wilson is now an incomplete quadriplegic the DRRUC&F want to ensure he and his family are cared for into the future.

(a)	a new Spinal Injury Rehabilitation Facility at Collaroy, Sydney , NSW, Australia;
(b)	an emergency fund for injured rugby players &
(c)	to provide assistance to rugby players who have previously suffered a spinal cord injury.

The Idea
In 2000, the idea of collecting as many Rugby Jerseys as possible from Clubs and Schools around Australia and the World, was initiated with the aim of then auctioning them over the internet to raise funds.

Hundreds of clubs were emailed asking them to donate jerseys and other memorabilia, to be used in the auction. The response was fantastic, but the DRRUC&F decided to focus attention on Wilson 's rehabilitation and the immediate financial needs of his family especially as it was found the Wilson would not receive monetary compensation as the insurance company involved (HIH) had ‘collapsed'. . The Jersey Auction project was put on hold.

The Appeal Gains Momentum
Late in 2002 with Wilson safely in a new home attention turned again to fundraising.

	A group of International and Australian Patrons – all of whom are highly regarded in the World Rugby community;
	The Australian Rugby Union;
	Australian Rugby Review, Rural Press Ltd and Prime television
	A group of sponsors include Canterbury International ( Rugby jerseys) and Coca Cola
	and a myriad of individuals who are rugby enthusiasts

There has been a fantastic response - the appeal is now growing very quickly – especially with its direct association with the True Colours of Rugby Tour of Australia conducted by the Australian Rugby Union.

	If you have already donated, WE THANK YOU .
	If not – BE PART OF THIS FABULOUS & IMPORTANT & INITIAIVE –
	please let us know of your interest by registering then, please send a jersey or other memorabilia NOTE - All clubs who donate will be acknowledged on the site.

To register your interest, please enter your details on our donation page and send your donation to Dubbo Rhinos Rugby Club, Orana Mall Post Office, Dubbo. Australia 2830.

(Click here)