Forbes, 25, has been deaf and sign ­dependent since the age of one and is an ­inspiration to others.

Those who know him say he never lets his disability hold him back or define who he is.

Saturday marks the first day of the National Week of Deaf People, which celebrates the Australian deaf community, and this encouraged Forbes to share his story.

One in six Australian’s have a hearing loss.

NWDP aims to raise awareness of deaf Australians and recognise the organisations and individuals who lend a helping hand.

Forbes is a front rower for the Raymond Terrace Magpies Rugby League Club and his passion for the sport became clear after watching the Newcastle Knights win the grand final in 1997.

The Magpies won the C-grade grand final against Waratah in September and Forbes said it was an ­amazing experience.

“It felt great... I haven’t won a grand final since under 15s (and) it was tough game,” Forbes said.

Forbes writes notes to communicate with friends and requires an interpreter from time to time, but says communicating with fellow teammates has never been a problem.

“(On the field) I don’t feel it’s difficult ... some boys make up some signs so I know what the attack plan is... if they want me off the field, the trainer will point to off field,” Forbes said.

Magpies coach Paul Simpson has known Forbes for 11 years and said he is a tough player who works hard.

“He picks things up pretty quickly. If we do a drill in training he will watch on at first and then get it first go,” Simpson said.

“He is determined to better himself in his football and in the gym. He spends hours and hours working at different things to make himself a better player,” fellow teammate and gym companion Tim Larsen said.

“He sets himself a goal and within a month he gets there. He is a huge part of our team and all the boys love having him there.”

Next year Forbes will play in B-grade as the Magpies move up the ladder.

National Week of Deaf People encourages organisations or ­individuals to hold events such as film nights, ­trivia nights or ­workshops to raise awareness about the deaf ­community.

The week runs from Saturday, October 18 to Friday, October 24.

If you would like to hold an event register online at ­deafaustralia.org.au.