The UK rugby league community is coming together in a heartfelt tribute to remember 12-year-old Manly Sea Eagles supporter, Beau Hewitt, who died from a very rare form on cancer in March.
Beau was crazy about rugby league and his Manly Sea Eagles.
He formed friendships with several Manly players and developed a very close bond with the Trbojevic brothers, who also played their junior footy with his local club, the Mona Vale Raiders.
Manly remembered their ‘brave young warrior’ with a heartfelt tribute at 4 Pines Park when they defeated eventual minor premiers, Canberra Raiders in Round 3.
It was an emotional occasion and a brilliant win for the team at Brookie, but the day belonged to Beau.
His parents Belinda and Scott and brother Tye delivered the match ball while Manly players wore black armbands, and his young footy mates gathered on The Hill.
Beau’s story has affected many people, both at home and abroad. His radiant smile, unbreakable spirit, zest for life, and genuine care for others, were just a few of his endearing qualities.
In a show of solidarity spanning thousands of miles, two sets of bereaved parents from the UK have been coordinating a special collection of jerseys, letters and cards to be sent to Beau's family in Australia.
The people driving this initiative are Geoff and Irene Burrow (parents of the late England and Leeds Rhinos half, Rob Burrow), and league fans Andrew Foster and Catherine Alport (parents of the late Rycroft Alport Foster).
The ‘Remembering Beau’ campaign is also being supported by rugby league’s governing body in the UK, the RFL.
Organisers are aiming to have the collection complete in time for the visit of the Australian Kangaroos touring team.
Shared Bond of Loss
Andrew Foster, speaking on behalf of the families, said: "We are incredibly grateful to the RFL and all the clubs who are supporting this initiative. Their response has been overwhelming and shows the true spirit of rugby league."
"We know from our own experience that there's nothing that can make up for the loss of a child. But rugby league is an expression of life and the values that give it meaning. It's something that's shared across oceans, and the reason why Beau’s story touched so many people within rugby league over here in the UK.
That's why myself and Catherine, Geoff and Irene, and so many others want to do something to help Beau's family.
We know something of what they're going through, and we want them to know they're not alone.
Andrew Foster
Growing Collection
The campaign has already received jerseys from numerous professional and amateur clubs across the UK, with organisers hoping to secure representation from every professional rugby league club in the country.
Clubs are being asked to donate a single jersey – from any season and any size – ideally with Beau's name and his favourite number, six, on the back. Fans are also encouraged to send messages of condolence, letters, and cards.
The Hewitt family have expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of support from the UK rugby league community.
“We are so very touched by the rugby league community for all the support we have received throughout Australia and overseas. The jerseys from the UK are amazing.
Losing a child is incredibly painful but we have found so much comfort knowing we are not alone.
Belinda and Scott Beau's parents
“Rugby league was such a big part of Beau’s life. It is a community that is united through strength, resilience, and care.
“We both feel lucky to be part of such a great community.
“Our heartful thanks,” Belinda and Scott.
The Remembering Beau collection will be transported to Australia and presented to the Hewitt family as a lasting reminder that while Beau’s life was short, he touched hearts around the world and will never be forgotten by the rugby league family.
