League community raises funds for Bowen

The Queensland rugby league community is throwing its support behind former iSelect Gold Coast Titans winger Brenton Bowen, who is fighting a battle against a second brain tumour.

Bowen, who was contracted with the Titans from 2008-2009, had a brain tumour removed in July 2011 and attempted a brave footy comeback last season with Cairns District Rugby League club Edmonton Storm before the tumour grew back.

In order to help raise funds for Bowen, 28, and his family while he is receiving radiation treatment in Melbourne following surgery on a benign tumour last December, the Northern Pride have organised a fundraising lunch in Cairns this Friday (15 February).

North Queensland Cowboys and Queensland Origin star Johnathan Thurston is auctioning his framed and signed Queensland State of Origin Game 3 jersey from last year’s historic 7th Origin series at the lunch.

The iSelect Titans’ thoughts are with Bowen, with the club looking into different ways it can also assist.

Brenton Bowen said the support of the rugby league community meant a great deal to him as he recovers from this latest setback.

“It has been a pretty full on 18 months, having gone through two brain surgeries and now three weeks of radiation treatment,” he said.

“But the amount of support through family and friends and now the football community, especially Northern Pride and JT with his generous donation of such a treasured item, helps me and my family get through these testing times."

The ‘Friday Footy Feast’ starts at 1pm at the Union Jack on Spence Street in Cairns.

Tickets are $100 per person, or $750 for a table of 8, which includes a buffet lunch and two hours’ beverage package. Visit www.northernpride.com.au and go to ‘Shop’, and then ‘Events’ to purchase tickets or tables.

Northern Pride Chief Executive Officer Chris Sheppard said the rugby league world rallies around big events and supports their own.

“If anyone is unable to make the footy lunch, you can still bid for JT’s prized jersey,’’ said Sheppard.

“You just need to pre-register with Sheron in the Pride office on (07) 4046 0500, and we will call you during the auction to get your bids live.

“It means any adult living anywhere in the world can bid on the jersey. This gives fans throughout Queensland, Australia and the world a chance to get your hands on this iconic piece of sporting history.”