In a state well-known for its AFL fanaticism, the Karratha Kangaroos Junior Rugby League, 1,530km north of Perth, has been named the NRL's community club of the year, beating out the league-mad states of Queensland and NSW to become the first West Australian club to receive the honour.

WARNING: This story contains reference to youth suicide and mental illness.

NRL officials made the surprise announcement at the club in August, and Kangaroos representatives travelled to Sydney for the official presentation at Sunday's NRL grand final.

Club president Josh Cruice said he was "over the Moon" at the acknowledgement.

"It just goes to show what the club's about — we're an inclusive community club.

"Everyone's a volunteer and puts hundreds and hundreds of hours into the club."

" We couldn't

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