Football Queensland (FQ) has today confirmed its support for families and communities impacted by the devastating bushfires sweeping Australia.
FQ is working closely with Football Federation Australia (FFA), Brisbane Roar, regional zones and clubs to provide support and contribute to the fundraising appeals.
CEO Robert Cavallucci said FQ was engaging its football community to contribute towards fundraising initiatives and had kick-started the campaign with a donation to the Red Cross Disaster Relief and Recovery Appeal.
In addition to the donation, Round 1 of the NPL Queensland Men’s season, which kicks off on Saturday 8 February will also be dedicated as a Bushfire Appeal Round.
FQ is also organising two charity matches with proceeds going to support the Bushfire Appeal.
The first event is a charity match between Brisbane Roar Legends vs an NPL Queensland Select Team and Celebrity VIP’s. The match will be played before the Brisbane Roar v Wellington Phoenix game at Suncorp Stadium on Saturday 18 January.
The Football Foundation Cup is FQ’s curtain-raiser to the NPL Men’s season and the second of the two charity matches. NPL Queensland Premiers Lions FC will take on FQPL Premiers Sunshine Coast Wanderers on Saturday February 1, 2020 at Lions FC.
FFA is also dedicating the upcoming two Rounds of Hyundai A-League and Westfield W-League to acknowledge the disasters and raise much needed funds to assist those impacted.
Mr Cavallucci said the Queensland football family has a proud history of helping each other.
“It has been a tumultuous few months for all Australians as we continue to watch the devastating effect of bushfires on our landscape and wildlife on such an epic scale, and see families and communities so badly impacted.
“Our deep gratitude and respect goes out to all the brave firefighters and emergency services who have worked so hard to protect communities, families and properties. Our hearts and prayers go to the families who have suffered greatly.
“We will be calling on our ten regional zones and 317 clubs across our state to find the most meaningful ways to contribute,” he said.
In the meantime, FQ encourages the Queensland football family to contribute to any of the recognised charity partners recommended by FFA.
If you have been affected by the bushfires and need support, please reach out to Lifeline. Support is available 24/7 on 13 11 14, or nightly via Lifeline Text. Lifeline Text is available 6pm – midnight (AEDT) on 0477 13 11 14. You are not alone. Bushfire Relief tool kits are also available at lifeline.org.au