Knights Strong donates $2 million to enhance Ronald McDonald House in Newcastle

Knights Strong, the community arm of The Wests Group, has today announced a transformational $2 million donation to enhance Ronald McDonald House in Newcastle to help expand support for families with seriously ill children across the region.

The commitment forms part of The Wests Group’s long-term investment in the community, delivered through Knights Strong - a platform focused on driving impact across health, education, wellbeing, social inclusion, and grassroots sport throughout Northern NSW.

The $2 million pledge will support RMHC’s Building a Bigger Heart campaign.

The redevelopment will include 11 new self-contained family units and upgraded shared spaces, with Wests’ contribution leading the way and significantly supporting the funding required to bring the project to life.

Geoff Coburn, President of The Wests Group, said supporting families in need is central to the Group’s purpose and advised “Knights Strong reflects our commitment to standing beside the people of our region when it matters most.

“Through this pledge, we are proud to support RMHC in their goal of never turning a family away. By contributing to the expansion of Ronald McDonald House, we’re helping create the space and support that families need during some of life’s most difficult moments.”

Ross Bingham, Chief Executive of RMHC Northern NSW, said the expanded partnership builds on two decades of meaningful support from The Wests Group.

Bingham added “Wests have already made a lasting difference - from Meals from the Heart volunteering to making our Houses feel like home.

“Now, through Knights Strong, we’re entering a powerful new chapter. This contribution will help us expand the House in Newcastle and be there for even more families when it matters most.”

The Building a Bigger Heart campaign continues to grow thanks to support from across the community - including the MacDougall Foundation, established by former Knights player Adam MacDougall and his wife Belinda. The Foundation has donated $2 million to complete Stage One of the build, reflecting a powerful and personal commitment to ensuring no family is turned away. Together, these efforts are creating a stronger, more compassionate foundation for families across Northern NSW.

Knights Strong, part of The Wests Group, is “strong like a Knight” for the community driving impact across health, education, wellbeing, social inclusion, and grassroots sport.

Image top. NRL team Newcastle Knights visiting Ronald McDonald House Newcastle; image below:'Knights Strong' on field presentation at Knights v Roosters, Newcastle