The Gold Coast Titans recently visited the Currumbin RSL to present a cheque for $5,527.80 raised from the auction of their specially designed ANZAC Round jerseys worn earlier this year.
Titans CEO Steve Mitchell, Chairman Dennis Watt, NRL players Seth Nikotemo and Tom Weaver recently joined Currumbin RSL CEO Daragh Murphy, Deputy President of Currumbin/Palm Beach Sub Branch Peter Thorpe and Doug Baird OAM, father of fallen soldier Cameron Baird VC MG, at the weekly Wednesday morning veterans’ morning coffee and chat to announce this significant contribution, which will support The Ron Workman OAM Veterans' Support Centre.
The Titans wore the one-off jerseys when they defeated the New Zealand Warriors on the 25th of April earlier this season, with the game doubling as an historic first win under new coach, Des Hasler.
The story behind Titans Anzac Round warm-up tee
This initiative was part of a larger collaboration between the Titans and Currumbin RSL, which included the creation of the Titans' ANZAC Round warm-up tee. The shirt features tributes to fallen soldier Cameron Baird VC MG and the Currumbin RSL's ANZAC Day ceremony, highlighting the deep respect and connection the Titans have with the local veteran community.
During the morning tea, Daragh Murphy and Peter Thorpe made a touching presentation where they presented a player signed and framed warm up tee to Doug Baird OAM on behalf of Currumbin RSL and the Currumbin/Palm Beach Sub Branch. More information about the shirt can be found here.
"As a club, we were incredibly honoured to work with the Currumbin RSL on our ANZAC Round warm-up tee and create something that helps commemorate a special day in our nation's history," said Titans CEO Steve Mitchell.
"Our relationship with the Currumbin RSL and the Baird family has continued to grow in recent years and this was just another way to honour that bond.
The Gold Coast Titans auctioned off their game-worn jerseys from the NRL's ANZAC Round, raising funds to support veterans and their families.
"To provide the proceeds of our match-worn jerseys to The Ron Workman OAM Veterans' Support Centre via the RSL is just a small way we can support this partnership and our communities," Mitchell said.
"The shirt and jerseys are not only a symbol of the club's commitment to honouring Australia's servicemen and women but also a tangible way to give back to those who have served."
"Our partnership with the Gold Coast Titans strengthens from year to year," said Daragh Murphy, CEO Currumbin RSL Group.
"It is built on the deep understanding the Titans have of our core purpose as an RSL Club, being to honour and care for the veteran community.
"The respect they have shown to our veterans and their families throughout the year has been very sincere.
"This collaboration and the generosity of the donation will make a material impact on the programs we run through our Veteran Support Centre.
"We are truly grateful for their thoughtfulness and for their time in working with us again this year. "
Beyond ANZAC Day events, the Titans provide complimentary tickets to the Currumbin RSL for every home game at Cbus Super Stadium, a gesture that is always appreciated by veterans.
These tickets are quickly claimed, reflecting the strong bond between the club and the RSL community.
