Youth Ambassadors
The NRL Indigenous Youth Summit is an annual initiative that brings together high school students from across Australia and New Zealand for a week of cultural learning, leadership development and educational experiences.
In 2025, the nib Newcastle Knights were proud to have four Hunter Region students selected to represent the region and the Club. Proud Kamilaroi girl Kyarla Usher, Dunghutti girl Laura Chang, Dunghutti and Gumbayngirr boy David Scholes, and Gomeroi and Anaiwan boy Yaegan Faulkner joined 68 Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and Māori young people on Darkinjung Country for the Summit.
Throughout the week, participants engaged in cultural learning and leadership activities, developing skills and experiences to take back to their schools and communities. The students demonstrated strong leadership and cultural pride while building meaningful connections with peers from across Australia and New Zealand.Through her outstanding commitment and leadership, Laura Chang was selected as one of the top four ambassadors at the 2025 Indigenous Youth Summit. As part of this recognition, Laura has been invited to attend the 2026 NRL All Stars program in New Zealand, where she will participate in a week of cultural immersion and leadership experiences.
Real Stories
Bringing laughter where it's needed most
Our nib Newcastle Knights NRL players visited the John Hunter Hospital to meet the Clown Doctors and the work of The Humour Foundation.
Mental Health Morning Tea 2025
This October, we took meaningful steps together on our wellbeing journey across the Wests Group.
The Humour Foundation
Creating a more positive experience for sick children and their families at the John Hunter Hospital.
Celebrating 50 Years of NAIDOC Week
In 2026, West proudly celebrated the 50th anniversary of NAIDOC Week, recognising five decades of honouring and celebrating the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Supporting Lifeline
Over the years, we've proudly donated to Lifeline Hunter through our ClubGRANTs program. Last year, we contributed $35,000 to aid their local services and perpetuate their positive impact on our community.
Educating and Engaging Communities
Wests Group is proud to support the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service with a $63,000 ClubGRANTS donation, enhancing community education on safety and emergency response