Rugby league superstar Cameron Smith is poised to inspire and entertain guests at a luncheon fundraiser at Alexandra Headland Surf Club on Friday.
The Australia, Queensland and Melbourne Storm legend will be a special speaker at the event, in support of the local club’s youth development program.
Smith, who is now on the Gold Coast, accepted the offer to get involved after Storm coach Craig Bellamy became unavailable due to COVID-19 border restrictions.
Surf club officials are delighted to welcome the 37-year-old
“It’s outstanding for the club … the place is buzzing at the moment because I don’t think you could get a better replacement,” Alex Surf Club general manager Ashley Robinson said.
“I think his longevity in the game is amazing and he’s a bit of a mystery man as well.
“He doesn’t really give too much away and I think there’s a bit of mystique there Queenslanders love.
“He’s a cool customer. The brains trust at Melbourne Storm is probably Cameron Smith and Craig Bellamy so it’s good to get the other half of the strategists, who is probably the on-field coach.”
Smith is expected to talk about his 19 years at the elite level, while there is uncertainty surrounding his future.
“We wonder how he has managed to play the game for so long because it’s such a physical game and he’s not a massively physical person. But everyone tells you how strong he is,” Mr Robinson said.
“But everyone wants to know if he is going to keep playing and if so, where, but he won’t tell them because he hasn’t told anyone so far.
“The most interesting thing is the dynamic between him and the coach … has he ever had a decent spray from the coach and how would have he handled that?”
The function is an important one on the club’s calendar.
“Our upcoming Leadership Luncheon is an event that will raise much needed funds towards the Club’s Youth Development Fund,” a club press release said.
“Alexandra Headland SLSC initiated a junior lifesaving program through nippers in 1968 and for over 50 years have organised, educated, trained, and made proficient its junior members who can join a beach patrol at age 14.
“The club links strongly with local Sunshine Coast families, other volunteer organisations and business communities to supply trainers, resources, and learning opportunities to develop young lifesavers.”
Date: Friday, February 19, midday for 12.30pm start.
Bookings: Alexandra Headland Supporters Club 54436677 or Neil Grimshaw (Club Captain) 0403125123.
Tickets: $100/individual, tables of (10 / 12) available.
Luncheon: Two course meal and drinks.
