The stars aligned when Gerringong Lions held their annual gala over the weekend, bringing together club legends, current NRL stars and St George Illawarra coach Shane Flanagan.

The event, held each year, offers players, supporters, friends and family a chance to connect, celebrate the club’s community and raise vital funds.

“It’s something we try to do every year - a night for the club,” said Lions president Alan Miller.

“We’re a young club with a lot of younger players, and they all turned up dressed well and really respected the night.

Manly centre Reuben Garrick with Gerringong Lions players. Photo: Game Face Photography

“Having a few of the older players there too was great - it’s not just a fundraiser. It gives us energy. It’s been a stop-start season, which hasn’t been easy on anyone. Events like this help re-energise the players and build camaraderie.”

Held at Gerringong Town Hall, the night featured guest speakers including former Australian Wallaroos rugby union captain Grace Hamilton, who now plays for the Dragons in the NRLW.

“Grace was insightful and really funny, with a great sense of humour,” said Miller.

“The Dragons women’s team stayed in Gerringong last weekend and trained, so she knew the area well and gave great insights.”

Around 100 people attended the gala. Other speakers included Manly Sea Eagles star - and former Gerringong junior - Reuben Garrick, as well as Flanagan, who brought along two of his current players, Hamish Stewart and Dylan Egan, both former Lions.

“Shane stayed the weekend in town with his family and friends, and he was fantastic,” Miller said.

“The banter between him and Reuben was great - they go way back to when Shane was coaching at Manly.

Gerringong Lions juniors and Dragons players Hamish Stewart (left) and Dylan Egan. Photo: Game Face Photography

“He also shared funny stories from his playing days under Mick Cronin, who was in attendance, of course.”

Cronin, a rugby league great and local legend, coached Flanagan during his playing days at Parramatta in the early 1990s.

Looking ahead, the Lions will be hoping to turn their season around this Saturday when they take on the Stingrays of Shellharbour in Group 7’s inaugural Magic Round in Bomaderry.

Gerringong are just outside the top five, with two wins and three losses.