Prior to the NRL Grand Final, a heartfelt tribute was paid to retired rugby league player Jai Arrow and former Wallaby Nathan Charles, both of whom were diagnosed with motor neuron disease earlier this year.

As Arrow and Charles took a lap around Stadium Australia, Australian musicians Amy Shark, Dave Gleeson, and Phil Jamieson provided live entertainment. The emotional atmosphere was further heightened as tens of thousands of fans participated by making the arrow gesture, a symbol of support, during this poignant moment.

Arrow, whose diagnosis prompted a month of recognition in July where NRL players celebrated him by making the arrow gesture after scoring, had to retire from rugby due to his condition, leaving a significant impact on the Australian sports community. Charles, who represented Australia in four rugby union Test matches, disclosed his own diagnosis earlier in the week.

During the tribute, Arrow and Charles were escorted around the stadium while the crowd cheered and engaged in the arrow gesture, encouraged by a pre-recorded message from NRL Hall of Fame member Ray Warren. Warren remarked on Arrow’s battle with motor neuron disease, highlighting his ability to inspire others facing adversity. He emphasized the essence of the sport, which embodies strength, resilience, community, and support during challenging times.

Following Shark’s performance of “You’ll Never Walk Alone,” Newcastle icon Dave Gleeson took the stage to sing “What’s Up?” by 4 Non Blondes. The tribute concluded with Phil Jamieson of Grinspoon joining Shark and Gleeson for a rendition of the beloved Tina Turner anthem, “The Best.”

This tribute occurred after the NRL’s attempts to secure Tones And I for the event did not materialize. In light of this, the NRL has committed $1 million, originally intended for pre-match entertainment, to support underprivileged children who wish to participate in rugby league, as stated by Australian Rugby League Commission chair Peter V’Landys to ABC News this week.