The Queensland Rugby Union is proud to partner with Gallipoli Medical Research to raise the profile of the support they provide defence force veterans.
Today’s partnership announcement is especially meaningful because of the significance of Anzac Day on Saturday to both organisations.
Gallipoli Medical Research (GMR) is a leading not-for-profit research institute committed to enhancing the health and wellbeing of veterans, their families and the wider Australian community.
Pioneering biopsychosocial research, which investigates the physical, mental and social health impacts of military service, is one research area of focus at GMR which is based at Greenslopes Private Hospital, the former war and repatriation hospital.
The Queensland Reds are preparing to fly to Super Round in Christchurch for Saturday’s now-traditional Anzac Day clash against the Auckland-based Blues.
The Anzac Day match will be played in memory of the more than 60 Queensland Reds players who have served in wartime. Twelve would be killed in the ultimate sacrifice while serving their country.
The QRU partnership with GMR also highlights the Reds’ Anzac jersey, by Canterbury, which features 12 poppies on the front to acknowledge the fallen.
GMR will be the beneficiary of funds raised through the “Match Worn Shirt” auction of those jerseys after Saturday’s match.
In addition, GMR will be the charity partner benefitting from the 50-50 raffle conducted at the Reds vs ACT Brumbies game at Suncorp Stadium on May 2.
Gallipoli Medical Research Chief Executive Miriam Kent expressed her appreciation of the new partnership.
“Gallipoli Medical Research is delighted to partner with the Queensland Reds this Anzac Day to honour all who’ve served our country, including Queensland Reds players,” Kent said.
“We are grateful to be the recipient of funds raised from the auction of match-worn jerseys and the 50-50 charity raffle at the upcoming Reds vs Brumbies match.
“These funds will directly benefit Australian veterans and their families through our pioneering research.
“I’m sure many veterans will enjoy watching this weekend’s Anzac Day match against the Blues in New Zealand. Go the Reds!”
GMR is renowned, globally, for veteran mental health research with current and ex-serving personnel and their families which aids reintegration into civilian life.
Queensland Reds players have proudly served in war time across more than a century.
Three landed at Gallipoli on Anzac Day - Llewellyn Evans (QRU #184, Wallaby #35), Tom Richards MC (QRU #255, Wallaby #99) and Alex Dingwall MM MID (QRU #299).
QRU Chief Executive David Hanham said the QRU was proud to be linked with an organisation improving the lives of veterans.
"Queensland rugby has links across more than a century with the men and women who have served Australia," Hanham said.
"Our Anzac Day match against the Blues is played on a significant day to Australians and it is fitting we can proudly announce our partnership with Gallipoli Medical Research this week."
