[Pictured (L-R): Geoff Foster, Shane King MP, Andrew Lofthouse, Bruce Morcombe, Roger McIntosh, Tim Mander MP | Credit: Richard O’Leary]
Bruce Morcombe is encouraging Queensland clubs to use the weekend’s Score For Daniel initiative as a kick-starter for important discussions about child safety.
Mr Morcombe attended and spoke at Saturday morning’s launch event hosted by Mitchelton FC, where he was joined Football Queensland CEO Geoff Foster, Shane King MP, the State Member for Kallangur, and Tim Mander MP, the State Member for Everton.
While the total funds raised from participation across the state are still being tallied, $3000 alone was raised at Teralba Park with donations from Mitchelton FC, Football Queensland and Football Brisbane.
Beyond just the fundraising, Mr Morcombe said the initiative boiled down to a desire to keep kids safe.
“That’s a pretty simple message. Often it’s forgotten,” he said.
“We want the uniqueness of our kids to blossom. That’s what sport is about, that’s what the Daniel Morcombe Foundation is about.
Bruce Morcombe speaking at Saturday’s Score For Daniel launch. (Image: Richard O’Leary)
“It’s also about not being risk-takers. We want parents to show some leadership and we want a conversation between parents and children on anything they feel is potentially unsafe.
“Not only are the funds vital to keep our work ongoing (but) it is all about building partnerships, supporting child safety initiatives at club level and really starting the conversation. That’s the number one.”
Shane King MP, the State Member for Kallangur, spoke on behalf of the Minister for Sport, Curtis Pitt MP.
Mr King said the initiative brought together a number of positive elements.
“This event not only supports and raises awareness of a cause that’s close to our hearts, it also encourages Queenslanders to get outdoors and get active,” Mr King said.
“As a Government, we are committed to encouraging greater participation in sport and active recreation for all Queenslanders.
Shane King MP, State Member for Kallangur.
“I’d like to thank Football Queensland for the continuing support of the Daniel Morcombe Foundation. Queensland state sporting organisations are vital in creating more opportunities for communities to get out, get active and improve their health and wellbeing.”
Football Queensland CEO Geoff Foster added that it was a natural fit to be supporting the Daniel Morcombe Foundation.
“We’ve had some pretty remarkable enthusiasm around the event. I think that’s because it touches a nerve with our members – it’s real to us,” he said.
“The safety, health and wellbeing of our kids really is part of our DNA. That’s what we do, it’s why sporting organisations exist.
“We’re really proud to be associated (with the Daniel Morcombe Foundation), we consider it a privilege and an honour.”
Learn more about the Daniel Morcombe Foundation and access child safety resources at www.danielmorcombe.com.au.
Football Queensland CEO Geoff Foster (R) presents Bruce Morcombe (L) with a signed PlayStation 4 NPL Queensland Women’s Select jersey from last year’s friendly against Brisbane Roar.
