LEAGUE LEGENDS HELP OUT
RUGBY league legends Gorden Tallis and Paul “Fatty” Vautin were among the famous faces raising money to highlight the dangers of knife crime on Friday.
More than 100 people packed into the Arundel Tavern for the Jack Beasley Foundation sportsman’s lunch. More than $20,000 was expected to be raised.
Jack Beasley died from a stabbing in Surfers Paradise on December 13, 2019. In the wake of his death his parents Brett and Belinda Beasley formed the foundation to raise awareness about the dangers of knife crime.
Former Brisbane Bronco and Queensland Maroons legend Tallis said he reached out to Jack’s father to see how he was travelling after his son’s death.
He told the Bulletin the loss of Jack was “tragic”.
“You’re supposed to die of old age … you don’t want people’s lives taken unexpectedly. And it’s sad. You try to put yourself in their (the Beasleys’) shoes and it would be a horrible feeling,” he said.
He said the work of the foundation was important for the Beasley family, the rugby league community and the Gold Coast. Jack played for the Helensvale Hornets. The main ground has been named in his honour.
Vice-chairman of the foundation, and tavern manager Debbie Frugtniet said more than $20,000 was expected to be raised through raffles, auctions and silent auctions.
Ms Frugtniet said the turnout was “extremely heartfelt”.
Tallis, Vautin and Scott Sattler were guest speakers at the lunch. Also spotted were radio legends Richard Fowler and Peter “Spida” Everett and tourism identity Paul Donovan.