The club’s annual Sportsman’s Dinner is its biggest night of the year, and it was one to remember as Bellamy took the stage to discuss growing up in the area, his love of rugby league and the challenges he’s faced.

Bellamy is originally from Portland and has a storied NRL career as both player and coach, hailed as one of the game’s best.

The Wallerawang Bowling Club Limited Sporting Personality of the Year Award was also handed out on the night, awarded jointly to Joe Smith and Chris Brown for their services to the Wallerawang sporting community.

Mr Smith has been involved with baseball in Wallerawang for more than forty years, and Mr Brown has played, coached and helped out with both junior and senior rugby league for three decades.

General Manager of Wallerawang Bowling Club Craig Townsend said Bellamy was the draw card, but the real reason for the night was to raise money for local sporting clubs.

“I’m pleased to announce around $13,000 was raised for our clubs, we’re all very proud of that achievement," Mr Townsend said.

“It’s great to see the community benefit from a night like this.”