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NRL community's incredible gesture for grieving Kimmorley

The rugby league family has come together to raise money for grieving NRL great Brett Kimmorley and his young family.

Over 700 guests, including a number of former and current players, attended a special tribute night for Sharnie Kimmorley on Tuesday, after she lost her battle with brain cancer earlier this year.

Those in attendance raised over $100,000 for Brett and his four young daughters Maddi, Mia, Ava and Ivy, with proceeds also going towards brain cancer awareness.

Sharnie and Brett in 2002. Image: Getty
Sharnie and Brett in 2002. Image: Getty

Brett spoke at the event about his wife's courage and his struggles.

"When I arrived I was still nervous," Kimmorley said on Tuesday night.

"I got a bit upset when I watched the girls dance in the rehearsals."

Kimmorley (centre) on Tuesday night. Image: Twitter
Kimmorley (centre) on Tuesday night. Image: Twitter

But re-telling Sharnie's story - which began and ended in just a year - was so much more testing.

"It was such a massive shock because I didn't expect it."

Kimmorley said he was glad for the opportunity to tell his beautiful wife's story.

"It was a chance for me to open up and a chance for me to let people know how quickly brain cancer can change."

NRL boss Todd Greenberg also paid a touching tribute to Brett and Sharnie.

"She was his greatest strength, and she drove him really hard too," Greenberg said.

"He owes a huge debt for his football career to all the support she gave him."