Johnathan Thurston kicked in front of Cowboys fans for the first time since his final NRL game, with the result being a $20,000 boost to the GIVIT flood appeal at season-opening match ‘Together for North Queensland’.
A combined $10,000 from Toyota and North Queensland Toyota dealers and North Queensland Toyota Cowboys was matched by Cowboys corporate member Karrie Webb following JT's on field efforts in the Toyota Hilux Kick for Cash.
North Queensland Toyota Cowboys' CEO Jeff Reibel said he was proud of the result.
“We had a goal in mind when we started out with this initiative which has been well and truly exceeded,” Mr Reibel said.
"The combined generosity from JT, who donated his time, Toyota who matched the club's commitment of $5,000, and Karrie Webb who surprised us with her $10,000 donation will go towards supporting communities affected by flooding.”
Toyota regional marketing and support manager Ryan Lacey said that Toyota jumped at the opportunity to be involved.
“The North Queensland region have been long-time supporters of the Toyota brand and when these sorts of events happen, we always try to give back however we can, whether that is through our dealer network, or with other local partners like the Cowboys,” Mr Lacey said.
Kick for cash: JT and Karrie Webb on $20;000 flood fund donation
The $20,000 funding boost will be added to the proceeds of the ‘Together for North Queensland’ match memorabilia auction which will run until 12pm, Wednesday 3 April at cowboys.com.au/auction.
GIVIT is working in partnership with the Queensland Government and Townsville City Council to manage donated funds and all offers of goods and services following flooding around the Townsville, Burdekin and north-west Queensland regions.
Donations made via GIVIT will provide critical and immediate support to residents impacted by the flooding as well as providing longer recovery support to re‐establish homes and help communities recover. For more information, visit givit.org.au.
