Sunshine Coast Falcons winger Nat McGavin has received a crucial helping hand in his return to rugby league after accessing shoulder surgery through the Sporting Chance Foundation.
The proud Torres Strait Islander has made 81 Queensland Cup appearances and scored 38 tries, but a string of injuries in his sixth season with the Falcons has kept him sidelined so far in 2026.
An initiative of the Sunshine Coast Orthopaedic Group (SCOG), the Sporting Chance Foundation was established by orthopaedic surgeon Associate Professor Daevyd Rodda to remove financial barriers preventing talented Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander athletes and cultural dancers from accessing specialist orthopaedic surgery and rehabilitation.
As Sporting Chance Foundation founder, A/Prof Rodda says he is proud to announce a new national partnership with Fortius Hospitals.
“What began as a Sunshine Coast initiative has grown into a national collaboration of surgeons, hospitals and healthcare professionals committed to keeping talented athletes and cultural dancers doing what they love,” A/Prof Rodda says.
McGavin, 30, suffered a ruptured pectoral muscle during an A-Grade game on the Coast, initially feeling a ‘sting’ before aggravating the injury during a diving tackle.
“I was making another tackle and, on contact, it just felt a bit weak,” he says.
Through Dr Joe Coory, orthopaedic surgeon at SCOG and director of Sporting Chance Foundation, McGavin was able to access the surgery he needed.
“They did such an amazing job supporting me and making sure the recovery and the surgery went well,” he says.
McGavin says the financial assistance made a significant difference, with the cost of surgery creating a major burden for many athletes. “Paying out of pocket for surgery, I guess for everyone, it’s just a big hit on the back,” he says.
Dr Coory says injuries such as the one experienced by McGavin can be career-defining moments, and access to timely surgical care can make all the difference.
“That’s exactly why the Sporting Chance Foundation exists: to eliminate the barriers that so often stand between an athlete and the care they need,” he says.
“Nat’s surgery is just the first step.
“There’s a steady road of rehab ahead, but it’s a privilege to be part of that journey with him.”
Following the operation, McGavin says he can now focus on his recovery and returning stronger next season.
“It was a pretty challenging season, but in a way this last injury was a bit of a relief because I’d been dealing with injuries and getting frustrated all year,” he says.
McGavin hopes sharing his experience will help more athletes learn about the Sporting Chance Foundation and the assistance available to them.
“If I didn’t find out from a friend, I definitely wouldn’t know about it,” he says.
“I want to help out with spreading awareness for this great local foundation.”
For more information on the Sporting Chance Foundation, visit sportingchancefoundation.com.au
drjoecoory.com.au
