Gold Coaster ready to blow the whistle on racism

Benowa’s Avi Cohen is again gearing up to blow the whistle at upcoming celebrity-studded curtain-raiser showdown ahead of the Queensland Roar FC and Brazilian football match at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane on Saturday, July 12.

Communities and Multicultural Affairs Minister Lindy Nelson-Carr said the celebrity and international football matches formed part of the Queensland Government’s Roar Against Racism campaign, with Queensland Roar FC getting set to take on the visiting Palmeiras team.

“Avi refereed last year’s celebrity match and I am glad to see a Gold Coaster taking charge on the field and showing his support for this important anti-racism campaign,” Ms Nelson-Carr said.

“He’s a talented referee who will be keeping the likes of Ditch Davey (Sea Patrol) and Big Wal (Australia’s Biggest Loser) in line, while keeping the action going.

”The celebrity match features two teams of actors, politicians and people representing the community and business sectors – it’s a great fun match.”

Mr Cohen said he was honoured to again be given the job of refereeing the curtain-raiser.

“Football is the world game,” Mr Cohen said.

“It’s for everybody – it’s beautiful and colourful and brings people from all different cultures together,” he said.

“The campaign’s anti-racism message is important to all Queenslanders, as we live in such a diverse State.

“Football is a great way get to know about each other and live in harmony together.”

The Queensland Roars Against Racism football event will be held at Suncorp Stadium on Saturday, July 12. Gates open at 5pm, with the celebrity match kicking off at 5.15pm and the main game at 7pm.

Tickets are available from Ticketek outlets, online at www.ticketek.com.au or phone 132 849. Family tickets (two adults and two children) start at $38.

For more information about Queensland Roars Against Racism, visit www.multicultural.qld.gov.au

Media contacts: Minister Nelson-Carr’s office 3235 4280, Avi Cohen 0416 146 486

Notes to editors:
Photos available – contact Communities’ Media Unit on 3224 6937