While playing numbers took a slight hit this week, organiser Joe Matthews was still a happy man.

“We’re down three teams on last year,” he told the Chronicle.

“But, things being as they are, it’s a great effort.

“Everyone is doing it tough at the moment.

“Overall, I’m very pleased with how it’s all gone.

“We just got a few drops of rain.

“And, I can’t thank all the people who participated, or helped out, enough.

“We should have an idea of how much we’ve raised in the next week or two.”

Unfortunately, not everything ran smoothly on the day.

Newcastle Knights legend Danny Buderus and a couple of National Rugby League stars were unable to make the trip to Muswellbrook after an issue forced the Westpac Rescue Helicopter to stay grounded.

“That was a big letdown, very disappointing,” Mr Matthews said.

“They were ready to board the aircraft, however a mechanical problem meant it couldn’t take off.

“Despite that setback, the region’s school kids enjoyed themselves, especially with the chipping competition.”