The Rugby Union Players' Association (RUPA) is proud to announce Gallagher, RUPA's long-standing insurance partner, as the new naming rights partner for its flagship end-of-year event, now known as the Annual Gallagher Rugby Players Lunch. The Lunch will once again be held at the Fullerton Hotel Sydney on Thursday, 10 December 2026.
About the Lunch
The Annual Lunch celebrates the achievements of our professional rugby players, recognising exceptional leadership, academic excellence and community service alongside on-field success. In collaboration with RUPA's Events Partner, Frontrow Group, the event brings together current and past players, RUPA partners and supporters, industry stakeholders and rugby fans. Attendees will hear from current and past Wallabies, Wallaroos and Sevens stars, who share stories and their perspective on all things Australian rugby.
The Awards
Award winners are recognised across the following categories:
- Men's Medal for Excellence
- Women's Medal for Excellence
- Men's Sevens Players' Player
- Women's Sevens Players' Player
- Newcomer of the Year
- Academic Achievement Award
- Leadership Excellence Award
- Vocational Achievement Award
- Community Service Award
As part of the new partnership, Gallagher will present the prestigious Annual Gallagher Men's Medal for Excellence, continuing a tradition that has previously been awarded to some of the game's most respected figures, including Allan Alaalatoa, James Slipper and Fraser McReight.
A natural extension of an existing partnership
Gallagher’s partnership with the Rugby Union Players Association (RUPA) reflects a long-standing commitment to protecting people and supporting them through every stage of their careers. Built on an already trusted relationship, Gallagher has long supported RUPA and its playing group as the Association’s insurance provider, delivering tailored cover designed around the realities of professional rugby including injury, income protection and other player-specific risks associated with life in a contact sport.
The move to naming rights partner strengthens this foundation and aligns with Gallagher’s values of partnership, care, expertise and long-term commitment. It deepens the investment in the wellbeing of Australia’s professional players, helping support their health, security and future both during their playing days and beyond.
Adrian Turner, CEO, RUPA:
“We’re delighted to extend our partnership with Gallagher as the naming rights partner of the Annual RUPA Lunch. The Lunch has become a significant event on the rugby calendar, bringing together current and past players, partners and people from across the game to celebrate our industry and the contribution of professional rugby players.
Gallagher has been a valued supporter of RUPA over many years, and we look forward to continuing to work together to deliver an event that reflects the strength of our game and the people who make it special.”
Alex Lumby, CEO, Gallagher in Australia:
“Gallagher is proud to further strengthen our long-standing relationship with RUPA as its naming rights partner. This next chapter builds on our established partnership, through which we have supported Australia’s professional rugby players with specialist insurance solutions and expertise tailored to the unique demands of the game.
As a trusted partner to rugby organisations around the world, we understand the importance of protecting and supporting players both on and off the field. Together with RUPA, we share a commitment to helping players navigate their careers with confidence, providing access to the expertise, protection and support they need throughout their playing journey and beyond.”
About RUPA
The Rugby Union Players' Association (RUPA) is the collective voice of Australia's professional rugby players, advocating for and supporting players on the field, off the field, and across their whole careers. RUPA is a proud member of the International Rugby Players' Association, and the Australian Athletes Alliance.
About Gallagher
Gallagher is an international insurance brokerage, risk management and consulting firm, operating in over 130 countries. We are the chosen partner to more than 125,000 Australian businesses, from small businesses through to multinational corporations and iconic brands. Through our network of more than 30 regional and metropolitan branches across Australia, we understand local business communities because we are part of them ourselves.
