Wallaby stars vie for awards

Five of the best Wallabies in recent times have been have dominated nominations for the Rugby Union Players' Association (RUPA) Annual Rugby Medal for Excellence Awards in Sydney on December 3.

Farewell Joe cool: Joe Roff

The previous three winners of the RUPA Medal for Excellence, George Gregan (2001), Nathan Shape (2002) and Brendan Cannon (2003) have again been nominated for this year's Award and joining them are breakaway flanker George Smith and retiring fullback Joe Roff.

The Rugby Medal for Excellence will be presented by famous Wallaby and current Vice-President of the Australian Rugby Union, Paul McLean.

It is presented to the player who has performed outstandingly both on and off the field in 2004 and is judged by Australian players from the Brumbies, Waratahs and Reds.

RUPA Chief Executive, Tony Dempsey, said that the Medal for Excellence is a unique and esteemed award which reflects the culture and ethos of Australian rugby.

"Unlike other awards, the Rugby Medal for Excellence recognises the player's on-field prowess as well as their leadership, general behaviour, charitable work and commitment to the development of the game," he added.

"What makes this Award even more special is that the winner is judged by his peers - his fellow professional players.

"There can be no higher accolade than to be regarded as the best on and off the field by your fellow players," added Dempsey.

Another highlight of this year's Rugby Medal for Excellence luncheon is sure to be Justin Harrison's farewell to retiring Wallaby Joe Roff.

All fundraising proceeds from the luncheon will be donated to Epilepsy Association Australia and Children's Cancer Institute Australia.