Tim Wood: QRL Outback
Photos – Aaron Skin
The stars aligned for Central West Rugby League on Friday night as players, volunteers and officials gathered under the clear Outback skies of Ilfracombe for the inaugural Matt Scott Medal Presentation at the iconic Wellshot Hotel.
More than 80 guests attended the historic event, with representatives from every Central West club joining invited guests in the Wellshot's famous beer garden for a memorable evening celebrating the region's finest contributors to the game.
The venue was a fitting choice for such a significant occasion. Ilfracombe is the hometown of Queensland Rugby League legend Matt Scott, whose remarkable journey from the Central West to rugby league's biggest stages inspired the establishment of the competition's premier individual honour.
Scott was on hand as the guest of honour to present the inaugural medal bearing his name. One of the most respected forwards of his generation, Scott enjoyed an illustrious NRL career with the North Queensland Cowboys while also proudly representing Queensland in State of Origin and Australia on the international stage.
As Central West Rugby League's most famous export, he learned his football in the bush, playing for Longreach before forging a career that would see him become one of the game's most decorated front-rowers.
Adding further prestige to the evening was former Fox Sports commentator Jason Costigan, who expertly guided proceedings as Master of Ceremonies.
The race for the inaugural Matt Scott Medal proved every bit as exciting as anticipated, with several players remaining in contention right through to the final round of the season.
When the votes were counted, it was classy Barcaldine Sandgoannas fullback Rokoko Hunt who emerged victorious, capping off a sensational campaign by becoming the first player in history to have his name etched onto the Matt Scott Medal.
Hunt's consistency, class and impact throughout the season saw him edge out a highly competitive field and secure his place in Central West Rugby League folklore.
While the Matt Scott Medal was the headline award, the evening also recognised a host of outstanding achievements across the competition, including excellence in representative football, women's rugby league, volunteer service and club administration.
2026 Central West Rugby League Award Winners
Matt Scott Medal
Rokoko Hunt (Barcaldine Sandgoannas)
Referees Player of the Year
Jacob Balke (Longreach-Ilfracombe Tigers)
Casey Young (Alpha Brumbies)
Senior Representative Player of the Year
Mitchell Hauff (Blackall Magpies)
Women's Rookie of the Year
Emma Muller (Winton Diamantina Devils)
Women's Best and Fairest
Daniella Mudu (Aramac Bushpigs)
Senior Volunteer of the Year
Ben "Banjo" Avery (Blackall Magpies)
Senior Club Executive of the Year
Sara Milligan (Barcaldine Sandgoannas)
Referees Acknowledgement Awards
Jacob Dash
Heather Ballinger
Todd Ritson
Haydn Scott
Peter Robins
Tim Steinhardt
The success of the inaugural Matt Scott Medal Presentation highlighted the strength of Rugby League across the Central West and provided a fitting celebration of those who continue to make the game thrive throughout the region.
With the first medal now awarded and a deserving winner crowned, the Matt Scott Medal is set to become one of the most prestigious honours in country Rugby League for years to come.
