Brazilian football stars touch down in Brisbane

Published Thursday, 10 July, 2008 at 10:30 AM

Minister for Communities, Disability Services, ATSIP, Multicultural Affairs, Seniors and Youth
The Honourable Lindy Nelson-Carr

Brazilian Championship football side, Palmeiras, have begun arriving in town ahead of their Saturday clash with Queensland Roar FC as part of the Queensland Roars Against Racism campaign [12 July].

Communities and Multicultural Affairs Minister Lindy Nelson-Carr said Saturday’s showdown was a wonderful opportunity for Brisbane residents to see some of the world’s best football players in action and in the flesh.

“This international friendly match will showcase the talent of two highly skilled and exciting teams while, at the same time, supporting a very important Queensland Government campaign,” Ms Nelson-Carr said.

“Palmeiras are one of Brazil’s most successful clubs and have millions of fans worldwide.

“It is great to a see a team of such high-calibre athletes coming to Australia to help us demonstrate Queensland’s strong stance against racism.”

Ms Nelson-Carr said two full days of entertainment were planned to celebrate the campaign with a decidedly Brazilian theme.

“Brisbane will take on a carnivale-style atmosphere, with the campaign’s festivities starting at noon on Friday 11 July at Reddacliff Place, Brisbane Square, where everyone can come down, meet the teams, have a poster signed and immerse themselves in Brazilian culture,” she said.

“At this event, there will be lunchtime performances from a myriad of Brazilian performers in Reddacliff Place finishing with a carnivale procession through the city to Parliament House at 1.30pm.

“On Friday night, Brisbane residents will need to dust off their dancing shoes and samba along to the Latin Dance Party being held at Reddacliff Place from 7–11pm.

“And this is just what’s happening on Friday!”

Ms Nelson-Carr said the match day entertainment will continue to have everyone swaying to Brazilian beats, with interactive activities on offer at the Suncorp Stadium concourse from 5pm, when gates open.

“Audiences will be wowed with Capoeira performances by Zambiaconga Capoeira, kept in time by the Brisbane Samba School’s drumming performance and taught to Samba in dance workshops on the concourse,” she said.

“A family-friendly program of entertainment is on offer for everyone attending the match and is included in the price of your ticket.”

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

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


Media Contact: Minister Nelson-Carr’s office 3237 0993