GET READY FOR RAZZLE DAZZLE
EVERGREEN Yarrabah Seahawks playmaker Charles Murgha expects plenty of rugby league magic at the Townsville Sports Reserve for the Queensland Murri Carnival.
The open men’s competition kicked off yesterday with Murgha guiding the Seahawks to a narrow 32- 30 win over Hunters Mackay.
Wongai Tiddas are the team to beat in the women’s division after racking up big wins over CQ Tiddas ( 46- 6) and Serenity Sistaz ( 58- 4).
Murgha has played in indigenous rugby league carnivals for more than two decades and the wily veteran helped Aja Boys win the Bindal Sharks All Blacks title last year. He’s back playing with his hometown side this weekend as Townsville hosts the Queensland Murri Carnival for the first time and Murgha said the Seahawks were ready to bring the razzle dazzle.
“It’s fast, steppy, and a lot of magic out there. NRL is too struc- tured, but our boys play like we’re in the backyard,” he said.
“The Murri carnival is like a big corroboree, meeting friends and family from other places, plus I’m playing for my hometown.”
Carnival convener Jenny Pryor said Murgha was a great mentor for the younger generation as they look to promote positive lifestyle choices through rugby league.
“He’s 37 and still running around because of his natural ability and his skills. He’s also got that commitment to show the young fellas from his community,” Pryor said.
“Young people can have all the speed and everything, but they still need that skill and wisdom from old players like him and he’s a good mentor for his community.”
Murgha wasn’t sure how much longer he’ll keep playing, but he felt he could still teach the young players a few things.
“The younger boys keep telling me I’ve got to stop, but I told them I’m faster than all of them,” he said.
Cowboys legend Matt Bowen is among the drawcard players at this year’s carnival, taking the field with his team M. B. 1, along with Queensland Cup flyer Jonathon Reuben and rising talent Sam Martin- Savage.
Games kick- off at 8am today followed by the opening ceremony at 11am. Games continue tomorrow and end with finals on Sunday.