“Supporting the Boars was Bernie’s passion. To see the support for Briggs on that day was incredible. He would have been happy with the way the Boars are going this year,” he said.

It is the second time the Boars have faced off against Inverell in memory of Bernie.

“Inverell and the Boars players have built camaraderie over the years. People living in Inverell have played for the Boars, just as people in Moree have played for Inverell. So this is really a good way to remember Bernie,” McGrady said.

Bernie played 142 first-grade games, 10 for reserve and 37 for juniors. Add 93 tries and 183 kicked-goals and there’s no doubt why he is considered a club hero.

The shield day against the Hawks also marked round six of the Toohey’s Group 19 season.

Ladies league-tag thrashed the Hawks 24-12 and currently sit second on the ladder.

U18s walked away with a 24-10 triumph and sit third on the ladder.

Reserve grade followed suit with a 36-34 victory and place second on the ladder.

The A-Grade team were enjoying a fairy-tale start to the season and remained undefeated up until Saturday when their winning streak abruptly came to an end with an 18-12 upset. Despite conceding the Bernie Briggs Trophy to the Hawks, the team has retained their top spot on the ladder.

Bernie’s wife Sally and family were present on the day and helped at the awards presentation.

The Boars will have a bye this weekend before they take on Tingha Tigers in round two of the season.