The game will feature free admission, a barbecue and activities for children. The drought support services will be on hand during the course of the day and afterwards the event will continue until late with live music and a light supper at the Ashford Bowling Club from 5.30pm.

The event is to raise awareness of mental health issues and the services available while providing a chance for people to get out, socialise and have a good time. Ashford Roosters president Mick Lewis said it should be a great day.

“We’ve thrown the gates open, it’s the local derby and I’m sure the Hawks are keen to do well and so are we,” Lewis said.

“It’s also the Ashford old boy’s day, we’re inviting all ex-players of Ashford to come out. It’s our last home game of the season and we’re expecting to see a big crowd there.”

The rugby league played on the day should also prove interesting. The Roosters are coming off their only win for the season (they defeated Uralla 48-8 on Saturday). Lewis said that was a convincing win and a great team effort with good players all over the park.

“We thoroughly deserved the win, we led all the way. There was no fluke about it, we played well,” Lewis said.

He said the result of that game was a good boost for the morale of the side, and thought the Roosters’ could win against the Hawks.

“We still feel we were a bit unlucky not to beat the Hawks last time, but we’re looking forward to the rematch out here,” Lewis said.

“No doubt Inverell has improved too. Last time the big six Kiwis had just arrived, and probably hadn’t settled into the club at that stage. But we’re sure they’ll be part of a pretty strong side that Inverell will bring out here.”