Local cricketers are rallying to raise much-needed funds for a mother and her two school-age children after the tragic passing of their husband and dad.
Last Man Stands cricketing team Bounce On This quickly united to help fundraise for the family of their late team member Brendan Magill, 43, who sadly lost his battle with cancer last week.
Brendan was diagnosed with extremely aggressive B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia in January.
Former teammate Shane Nipperess said that with his friend being otherwise healthy and fit until his diagnosis, the news took a massive toll on his family.
“He asked for little during his fight, but we are rallying to support his wife and kids in the wake of his passing,” he said.
A GoFundMe was initially started on May 17 to support travel, accommodation and medical expenses for Brendan and his wife Amanda and children Ciana, 14, and Tyler, 12.
Focus has now shifted to fundraise for the ones Brendan loved most as they move through the difficult time.
GoFundMe organiser Olivia Kemsley said Brendan loved his wife and two children dearly.
“Brendan was the kind of good old Aussie guy who would lend a hand to anyone and expect nothing in return,” she said.
“He loved his golf, footy, cricket, camping and a Sunday barbecue. He was loyal, hardworking and always brought a smile to all in his company.
“He was such a positive person and devoted his life to those around him.”
Brendan played with Bounce On This in local and national Last Man Stands cricket tournaments.
He was also a founding member of the Sunshine Coast Indigenous cricket team Maroochy Moombas and played several games for Maleny Cricket Club.
Last Man Stands player and Maroochy Moombas team member Timothy Hockam said the loss of Brendan came as a shock to many.
“He really would do anything for anyone,” he said.
“He was a true legend and now it’s time to support his grieving family in any way we can.”
A memorial day for Brendan has been organised for this Sunday, June 4, at the Ballinger Park Sporting Complex in Buderim to celebrate all the things Brendan loved.
Brendan’s team will play three matches back to back, with an initial T20 match followed by T10 Blast games against a hand-picked Last Man Stands team and the Maroochy Moombas.
Players have pledged money from their own pockets, along with Last Man Stands, to donate money for every six straight to the family.
Organisers have already received food and drink donations from local small businesses and a major raffle prize of 10 tickets to the Canadian Club Precinct on Caloundra Cup Race Day, donated by the Sunshine Coast Turf Club.
All food and drinks sales and raffle tickets will be donated directly to Brendan’s immediate family.
Mr Hockam said the team looked to the local community to seek further donations for raffle prizes and support for the memorial day.
Anyone who would like to help the family or event in any way can contact Mr Hockam on 0416 881 138.
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