Canberra, Australia — In a heartwarming show of community spirit, Canberra Raiders star Joe Tapine has launched a new charitable initiative — the Raiders Tapine Foundation — aimed at supporting underprivileged children and families across the ACT region. The program, unveiled this week, saw the foundation donate $18,000 in scholarships and distribute backpacks filled with school supplies to children in need, underscoring the Raiders’ ongoing commitment to giving back to the community beyond the rugby league field.
The launch event, held at a local community centre in Canberra, brought together players, local officials, educators, and families to celebrate the initiative’s goal: empowering young people through education and opportunity. Tapine, who has become a key figure both on and off the field for the Raiders, spoke passionately about the inspiration behind the foundation.
Growing up, I saw how much a helping hand can mean to a family doing it tough, Tapine said. Through the Raiders Tapine Foundation, we want to give kids the chance to dream big to know that someone believes in them. Education is the key, and we want to make sure no one misses out because of financial hardship.
The $18,000 scholarship fund will be distributed among selected students who have demonstrated resilience, leadership, and a commitment to learning despite facing personal or financial challenges. Each recipient will receive direct financial support to help cover school expenses such as tuition, uniforms, technology, and extracurricular activities.
Local schools and community organisations partnered with the foundation to identify students most in need of support. According to program organisers, the scholarship aims to remove barriers that prevent young people from reaching their full potential, with a particular focus on Indigenous youth and those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Alongside the scholarships, hundreds of backpacks filled with essential school supplies — from notebooks and stationery to sports gear — were handed out to children across the region. The gesture was symbolic of the foundation’s broader mission: ensuring that every child starts the school year equipped and confident.
The backpack distribution was made possible through a collaboration between the Raiders Tapine Foundation, local sponsors, and volunteers from the Canberra Raiders community. Several Raiders players joined Tapine at the event, helping children pick out their new school bags and sharing stories about the importance of education and teamwork.
Raiders CEO Don Furner praised Tapine’s leadership and initiative, calling the foundation a natural extension of the team’s values.
Joe represents everything we want the Raiders to stand for — leadership, humility, and community, Furner said. The impact of this program will go far beyond the classroom. It shows our young fans that rugby league is more than a game — it’s a platform for change.
For many attendees, the event was an uplifting reminder of how sport can serve as a unifying force. Parents expressed gratitude not only for the financial and material support but also for the sense of hope the initiative brings to the community.
Ten-year-old Isaiah, one of the scholarship recipients, said he dreams of becoming a scientist. “This means I can get the books and laptop I need,” he shared, smiling proudly with his new Raiders-branded backpack.
Teachers echoed this sentiment, noting that even small gestures like these can have a lasting impact on a child’s self-esteem and academic engagement.
The Raiders Tapine Foundation plans to make the scholarship and backpack giveaway an annual event, with hopes of expanding its reach across regional New South Wales and other parts of Australia. Future initiatives may include mentorship programs, youth leadership workshops, and sports development clinics.
Tapine concluded the event by emphasizing the importance of community partnerships and long-term vision.
As the sun set over Canberra, the smiles of hundreds of children — their new backpacks slung over their shoulders — reflected the power of compassion and teamwork. In a city known for its proud sporting culture, the Raiders Tapine Foundation’s first step is a reminder that true champions aren’t only made on the field — but also in the hearts of those who give back.