What began as an ordinary day of service quickly turned into a memorable and uplifting experience when an unexpected volunteer walked through our doors. There was no media fanfare, no advance notice, and no entourage. Instead, there was simply Nathan Cleary — the star halfback of the Penrith Panthers and Australian Kangaroos — arriving with a genuine smile and a clear intention: to help.
Nathan didn’t come to pose for photos or make a brief appearance. He came to work. From the moment he stepped inside, he insisted on doing a full shift, rolling up his sleeves and getting involved in every aspect of our operations. Whether it was packing food bags, organising supplies, lifting boxes, or engaging with fellow volunteers, Nathan approached each task with humility, energy, and a strong sense of purpose.
For many of our volunteers and staff, the initial surprise quickly gave way to admiration. Here was one of the most recognisable athletes in the country, a premiership-winning leader admired by fans of all ages, choosing to spend his time quietly helping people facing hardship. There was no sense of hierarchy, no special treatment requested or expected. Nathan simply asked what needed to be done — and got on with it.
Throughout the shift, he worked side by side with volunteers who come from all walks of life. Students, retirees, parents, and community members all found themselves sharing a packing table with one of rugby league’s biggest names. Conversations flowed easily. Nathan listened more than he spoke, showing a genuine interest in the people around him and the work being done. It was clear he wanted to understand the impact of the service, not just contribute to it.
Packing food bags may seem like a simple task, but it carries enormous significance. Each bag represents a household struggling to make ends meet, a family choosing between essentials, or an individual trying to stay afloat during tough times. Nathan treated every bag with care, recognising that behind each one was a real person relying on the kindness of others. That level of respect did not go unnoticed.
What stood out most was his attitude. Despite his achievements on the field — multiple premierships, representative honours, and leadership roles — Nathan carried himself with quiet humility. He never once sought attention. In fact, many clients only realised who he was after the shift was well underway. To them, he was simply another volunteer lending a helping hand, offering a smile, and making the day a little easier.
For those facing hardship, his presence carried an added layer of meaning. Seeing someone of Nathan’s stature give up his time freely reinforced a powerful message: that no one is invisible, and that everyone deserves dignity and support. Small gestures — a friendly greeting, a bit of extra care when handing over supplies — can have a lasting impact, and Nathan delivered those moments naturally.
His involvement also had a ripple effect among volunteers. Morale lifted, energy increased, and the sense of community grew stronger. It served as a reminder of why this work matters and how collective effort, regardless of background or status, can make a real difference. Nathan didn’t just help pack bags; he helped reinforce the values that sit at the heart of what we do — compassion, respect, and solidarity.
In a world where professional athletes are often seen only through the lens of performance, contracts, and headlines, moments like this reveal the person behind the player. Nathan Cleary showed that leadership extends far beyond the football field. True leadership is about service, about using influence to uplift others, and about stepping into spaces where help is needed without being asked.
By the end of the shift, hundreds of food bags had been prepared and distributed, each one contributing to the wellbeing of individuals and families doing it tough. Nathan had made a tangible difference — not through words, but through action. His willingness to give his time and effort reinforced the importance of community-driven support and reminded us all that positive change often starts with simple acts of kindness.
As he quietly thanked everyone and prepared to leave, it was clear that the gratitude went both ways. We are incredibly thankful to Nathan for choosing to spend his day with us, for insisting on doing the work, and for showing genuine care for the people we serve. His contribution went beyond the physical tasks completed; it left a lasting impression on everyone present.
Thank you, Nathan, for your help today. You didn’t just volunteer — you inspired. Your actions helped people facing hardship stay well fed, but they also reminded us of the power of humility, generosity, and community. Days like today reaffirm why this work matters, and why having people like you step forward makes all the difference
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