By Clyde Mooney – editor Australian Hotelier
Legends of league, pubs and meat pies have joined forces to support the Men Of League foundation throughout the upcoming State of Origin juggernaut.
As the cane toads aim for their ninth consecutive win in the world’s toughest rugby league series, the unofficial home base of the Queensland squad is driving fundraising for the sport’s primary charity – with help from Australia’s favourite pub meat pie, Garlo’s.
Uber-passionate supporters of their beloved maroons, Queenslanders have begun a tradition of flocking to the honorary icon of their success, Brisbane’s The Caxton Hotel.
And starting yesterday, continuing until the end of the three-game Origin series, The Caxton is selling specially made limited edition maroon Garlo’s meat pies – with all proceeds going to Men Of League (MOL).
Generously supplying all the pies, sold for $3 each, the family-owned Garlo’s derives from legendary South Sydney captain Sean Garlick, who famously said he “went from scoring tries to baking pies!”.
The Caxton will also be donating money on top of each sale, and promoting the charity drive over the next six weeks, including appearances by former Queensland Origin greats such as Petero Civoniceva and Ben Ikin.
The hotel’s marketing & events manager Melissa Anderson says it’s their busiest time of year.
“The Caxton Hotel has become something of an unofficial Queensland maroons club house / home base / icon – take your pick!
“Both Queensland and NSW Supporters congregate here pre- and post-match, and there is a vibe around State of Origin that you just cannot explain. I love this time of year,” says Anderson.
“Men of League is about helping out our mates and providing support and welfare to anyone in the rugby league community who needs a hand, 365 days a year,” said MOL Queensland’s Steve Calder.
“And what better way is there to raise money than the classic combinations of footy, pies and State pride!”
MOL has been operating for over a decade, providing help and support to former rugby league players, coaches, trainers and volunteers affected by injury.
Taking its title from the nickname of family face Sean Garlick, Garlo's Pies is a leading baker of delicious chilled and frozen pies, pastry and food service products in Australia and export markets in the UAE.