Fifita calls for large donation from hotel firm
ANDREW Fifita will resist confronting staff at the Brisbane pub which he believes racially vilified his family – but will pursue the hotel chain to ensure a big donation is made to an indigenous program.
Fifita was the target of what he described as a “disgusting social media post” from the Kallangur Tavern after State of Origin II.
The tavern posted on Facebook a photo of a woman in a NSW jersey with a black baby doll strapped to her back.
“Our best dressed tonight is this Blues supporter ... carrying Andrew Fifita’s daughter on her back?!?!,’’ the Facebook message read.
The NSW Origin prop described the Facebook post as a “racist, discriminatory and personal” attack on his family.
He also suggested that he would “go past (the) pub and see you personally” once the Blues arrive in Brisbane ahead of the decider on Tuesday.
However, aware of the significance of Origin III and the need to be fully focused on winning the series, Fifita said he would instead seek a meeting at a later date with the senior management of ALH Group – the company which runs the tavern.
“It’s an important issue and I still believe there needs to be some sort of understanding from them on what impact it has on individuals,’’ Fifita said.
The hotel manager was reprimanded and an apology from ALH Group was sent to Fifita’s agent. But Fifita felt it important that a donation be made.
“An apology is one thing, but they should show they want to help create change,’’ Fifita said.
The Blues forward suggested The Go Foundation, led by Adam Goodes and Michael O’Loughlin, and The Preston Campbell Foundation.