World Footy News

Plans are being made for AFL Hall of Famers John Platten, Doug Hawkins and Ron Barassi to go on a world tour in January 2006, covering Asia, Europe, North America, Africa and the Pacific Region.

While the project is still in the planning stages, the idea has been trialled as a successful fundraising venture for Australian Football in Papua New Guinea and organisers are hoping it can become a regular fixture for clubs and leagues around the world.

Justin Karcher from the AFLPNG is drafting the proposals for the tour, which he hopes will become a great promotional tool and fundraising opportunity for leagues. Karcher has been involved in a number of fundraising efforts held to help the PNG Mosquitos' trip south for the International Cup, as well as helping players from Papua New Guinea attend camps and scholarships programs in Australia.

'We have run a number of shows quite successfully up here and they cost us between $AUD4000-$6000 for airfares and talent fees. We make a net profit of at least $AUD7000 each time we have a celebrity up'. The package would include a specially designed International Jumper signed by the 3 Legends for auction with the proceeds going to the host nation.

The big names on the drawcard are sure to raise some awareness, particularly in the expat community, and 'all three gents are in'.

'I have a very good feeling, as does Barassi, that this idea will take off and we can do at least one every 6 months to help all the AFL (Australian Football) playing countries to boost our great sport's profile and help with their fundraising'.

While the details haven't been finalised, possible stops would include Jakarta,Singapore, Brunei, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Tokyo, Johannesburg, London, Edinburgh, Dublin, Paris, Madrid, Copenhagen, New York, Boston, LA and Auckland. Depending on suggestions or changes, other stops could also be arranged.

While an official announcement is still on the planning table, anyone interested in hearing more can contact Justin Karcher via:

Email: jkarcher at steamships.com.pg
Phone: (675) 686 0549
Post: PO Box 1 Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea.