The Deniliquin Heelers Rugby League Club capped off its second season of competitive play with its first official presentation night.
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Jono Oliver featured prominently in the men’s awards, claiming best and fairest and players’ player, rounding out a strong season.
Bradley Callaghan was awarded best back, George Robertson received best forward, and Jackson Bradsworth‑Kerr was named most improved.
The coach’s award went to Josh Shore.
In the women’s awards, Abbey Fraser was named best and fairest after a standout year.
Sarah Kirkman claimed best back, Miley Lilford earned best forward, and Alicia Burchell was recognised as most improved.
The coach’s award went to Rachael Parry, while Kaelee Pepper received players’ player.
The club also acknowledged the contributions of its volunteers and supporters.
Andrew Fraser was named Club Person of the Year for his ongoing commitment to the Heelers.
In a special moment, inaugural president Kurt Longford was presented with the club’s first ‘lifetime membership’, recognising his role in establishing the Heelers and supporting their growth.
The club extended its thanks to coaches Adam Brill and Drew Hinkley for guiding the two sides, and to the sponsors who helped make the year possible.
The Heelers also had a few players recognised at the 2026 Proten Cup presentation night, with a strong list of nominations and several awards heading home.
Among the standouts was Jono Oliver, who claimed two awards - men’s most improved and men’s best back.
He was also honoured with selection as fullback in the Men’s Team of the Year.
Jackson Bradsworth‑Kerr was named men’s Rookie of the Year, while Abbie Fraser took out women’s Rookie of the Year, as well as being named in the women’s Team of the Year.
Fiona Casey also earned selection in the women’s Team of the Year.
It is her second year receiving this honour, selected last year for her efforts playing with Goolgowi.
Club president Rachael Parry both presentation nights were a great celebration of local talent and teamwork, and heaped praise on Oliver for his achievements at competition and club level.
“Jono did really well. It’s very well deserved; he played a really strong season,” she said.
“It’s good to get some recognition for our hard work.
“Our (Proten preso) table had quite a few trophies, and it was a really nice boost for the club going into next year.”
Parry praised the Heelers’ “drive and ambition” and the mix of “local talent, stepping up and showing what they can do”.
Coach Drew Hinkley said the awards reflected the strength and consistency shown across the Heelers squad this season.
He said the results at the Proten awards night in particular was a positive reflection of the year.
“Jackson and Jono definitely showed they deserved their awards. Both players showed up and consistently played some really good footy,” he said.
“It was also good to see Abbie and Fiona, both very deserving players, get some recognition,” he said.
“It’s great to see our players get recognised at the group level.”