Gary Ablett and Zac Smith have swapped their guernseys and footy boots for shovels and spades in support of the Gateway Children’s Fund PNG.
While Gold Coast’s younger players returned to Metricon Stadium on Wednesday for the start of pre-season training, the superstar captain and the skilful ruckman will head to Papua New Guinea this week to build infrastructure in some of the country’s most poverty-stricken communities in Port Moresby.
The international charity mission mark’s Ablett’s second consecutive tour over the Pacific Ocean.
"I am really excited to be going to Port Moresby again," the skipper told The Loop.
"There is a big need in PNG, especially amongst young people. We have a goal to raise $50,000 to help build a new elementary school room."
In addition to showcasing AFL football to the city’s youth, many for the first time, the dual Brownlow medallist will also appear at a Charity Golf Day, followed by a dinner auction.
The Gold Coast SUNS players will be joined by prominent Australian singer-songwriter Michael Paynter, with the former The Voice constant expressing his excitement.
"I’ve been privileged to be involved with the Gateway Children’s Fund PNG for over 10 years and can verify the excellent work they do especially for poor children in PNG," he said.
"I’m also excited to be with my good friends Gary and Zac supporting the Charity Golf Day."
From Port Moresby on Tuesday, a spokesperson for the Gateway Children’s Fund said; "We thank Gary and the boys and all our sponsors for the hard work they are giving to help make this weekend a success.
"It’s a high quality event to raise funds for an urgently needed elementary school room."
