Kingfishers and Thunder battle for glory but unite for Clayton

Originally scheduled for March 16 but cancelled due to rain, the pre-season carnival featured 23 quality games of rugby league, with most divisions taking to the field.

Kingfishers' president Matt Haack said he was pleased with the turnout to the games, which saw spectators donating a gold coin at the gate in support of Jimboomba Thunder master Clayton Dodd

The popular Beaudesert local suffered a serious spinal injury while playing rugby league last month.

"The fundraiser was really well received and it was a massive turnout, with three to four thousand people coming through the gates," Mr Haack said.

"Everyone here knows Clayton, he has an affiliation with both clubs so we haven't had anyone complain about the gold coin donation."

The event also had merchandise up for sale including NRL jerseys and player cards with all profits going to the Dodd family.

Jimboomba Thunder president Trent Barnes said Clayton Dodd was one of their masters players.

"Clayton was supposed to play for us on the day he was injured," he said.

"He had jumped into his cousin's team in the first game, playing for the Ipswich Redbacks when it happened."

The event featured an auction where supporters were able to bid for rare memorabilia including including Kangaroos and Maroons jerseys signed by Wally Lewis and a Queensland jersey autographed by Mal Meninga.

Despite the intermittent showers on Saturday the teams played on and supporters stayed after the auction for a live performance by popular local musician Brad Currie. 

Mr Haack said the event had raised about $9000 for the Dodd family on the day.

"A couple of weeks ago the Burleigh Bears also made a generous donation of $1000," he said.

Donations are still being accepted and anyone who wants to add their support can get in touch via the Beaudesert Kingfishers or Jimboomba Thunder  Facebook pages.

Game results, page 31