2002

Sports Stars team with Flight Centre to rebuild Bali

Thursday, 12 December 2002

Olympic gold medallist Glynis Nunn-Cearns and AFL star Jason McCartney have joined forces with Flight Centre Limited as ambassadors in a major fundraising campaign for families affected by the Bali tragedy. Flight Centre Limited chief executive officer Shane Flynn announced details of the Rebuild Bali campaign in Brisbane today (Thursday December 12), saying it was hoped more than half a million dollars would be raised for families both in Australia and Bali. "Australia has always had a special bond with the people of Bali and in many ways the bond has grown stronger since that terrible day exactly two months ago," Mr Flynn said. "Through the combined efforts of our special ambassadors as well as Flight Centre Limited, its staff, customers and the general public we hope to assist in whatever way we can these people and communities in great need." Flight Centre Limited's vast network of retail outlets throughout Australia will act as official collection points for the Rebuild Bali appeal. People wishing to make a donation can do so at collection boxes in-store or customers booking holidays through Flight Centre Limited can opt to make a one-dollar donation at the time of purchase. "On top of this, Flight Centre staff around the country are contributing thousands to the appeal via a wide range of fundraising initiatives, and Flight Centre Limited has vowed to match any internal donations dollar for dollar," Mr Flynn said. "Our people in New South Wales recently raised $56,000 for this campaign in a single night. The money will be distributed by the Australian Red Cross to areas of need, assisting Australian victims and their families and providing relief, recovery and reconstruction in the affected areas of Bali. 1984 Olympic heptathlon gold medallist Ms Nunn-Cearns and husband David spoke of the Australian spirit, courage and hope during the launch. The family was one of many touched by the tragedy after fun-loving, vivacious Jodie Cearns, David's daughter and Glynis's stepdaughter, passed away after a brave battle with terrible injuries sustained in the Bali blasts. Jodie, a huge supporter of AFL premiers the Brisbane Lions, would have been 36 today. "The message David and I would like to talk about is one of hope," Ms Nunn-Cearns said. "Dream of living each moment to the fullest and let's all reach out to friends, acquaintances and strangers wherever and whenever we can," she said. Ms Nunn-Cearns will be offering a range of sporting memorabilia including an Australian flag signed by Hall of Fame athletes to be auctioned on-line for the Bali appeal. Kangaroos defender Jason McCartney, who was unable to attend today's function because of his marriage this weekend to schoolteacher fiance Nerissa Vanderheyden, has typified the courage Australians have displayed throughout this ordeal. Mr McCartney has vowed to play football again after the Bali blasts resulted in burns to 50 percent of his body. "There have been so many heroes involved in what has been such a tragic event," he said. "Now we have the opportunity to provide relief to the victims and suffering families both within Australia and Bali." Mr Flynn said he was proud to have these ambassadors on board for the project. "The Australian fighting spirit is indeed a unique trait and one that is highly evident here today," he said. "I thank everybody for their support." The Rebuild Bali campaign will run until March 31, 2003.