March 28, 2006
Three former Raiders legends will be pulling on the boots next month, in order to help aid the victims of Cyclone Larry.
Mal Meninga, Laurie Daley and Gary Belcher are all part of a joint initiative of Bundaberg Rum, Landcare Australia, the NRL, North Queensland Cowboys and AMP Men of League, in hosting a Legends of League charity appeal match between Australia and New Zealand in Townsville.
The match will take place on Monday, April 24 to raise funds for communities devastated by Cyclone Larry.
A star studded Australian team featuring Belcher, Meninga, Daley and Eric Grothe, have pledged their support to the match which will raise funds for the Bundaberg Rum Bush Fund - a joint initiative between Landcare Australia and Bundaberg Rum.
All monies raised will help communities regenerate land, waterways and agricultural properties in Far North Queensland.
Tony Scanlan, Chairman of Bundaberg Rum Distillery said immediate relief is focused on repairing homes and getting supplies into ravaged communities.
"But in time Australians will realise the full extent of damage to the land," Mr Scanlan said.
"Crops have been obliterated and our farmers, already doing it tough, now face one of the biggest challenges of their lives.
"The next crucial step will be to rebuild the land and waterways which form the backbone of Far North Queensland communities."
Bundaberg Rum has already kicked in $50,000 to help those communities devastated by cyclone Larry.
Chief Executive of the NRL, David Gallop said Australian's have long believed in supporting their mates when they need it most.
"By bringing together some of the legends of league we aim to raise much needed funds to help those people and communities in need," he said.
Tickets for the match go on sale Thursday, March 30 through Tickets Online (www.cowboys.com.au) at a cost of $15 for adults and concession (under 16) for $5.
Donations can be made online at www.landcareonline.com or by phone, through freecall 1800 441 533.
www.raiders.com.au
