League legends score smiles with a ton of footies

Queensland Media Release
Wednesday, 5 April 2006

Rugby league immortal and Centrelink Indigenous Ambassador, Arthur Beetson, visited four schools today donating 100 footballs to kids who lost many of their possessions during Cyclone Larry.

"Cyclone Larry has turned the world upside down for many people," Arthur said.

"The extent of damage is really quite overwhelming and yet the spirit of the local community is far from broken.

"I visited Mourilyan State School, Goondi Bend State School, Innisfail Secondary State School and Babinda High School today and the enthusiasm and energy of these kids despite this ordeal was inspirational."

"It was great to see the smiles on the kids' faces as they kicked their new footies around."

Arthur praised the tireless efforts of Centrelink staff, who continue to help people get back on their feet.

"From the moment Cyclone Larry hit, Centrelink had over 300 staff within days working to get emergency relief to anyone who needed it," he said.

"Some staff in Innisfail, Cairns, Maryborough, Townsville and Brisbane even gave up their weekend to ensure people were able to get assistance as quickly as possible.

Accompanying Arthur was Centrelink Indigenous Services Officer, Leo Dynevor, another rugby league legend whose playing career featured stints with the Brisbane Broncos and the Newcastle Knights.

"I'll be visiting a number of Indigenous communities while I'm here to ensure they have access to the relief package as well as seeing if there is anything else we can do for them," Leo said.

"Today's visit was lots of fun and I hope it provided these kids with a small reminder that organisations like Centrelink are thinking of them."

For more information, telephone the relevant Centrelink Media Contact.