Triple R presenter and musician Kate Boston Smith weighs in on the upcoming game and her involvement in the event over the years.
“I love this city of ours,” she says. “The larrikin spirit runs deep through it and people know how to have a good time. I adore my Triple R family. When I got on air with them and an opportunity came to play I just couldn’t resist. There’s nothing like taking up a full contact sport at the tender age of 32. Playing with the Megas, and now the Rockdogs, is to kick a footy with a hilarious family for a great cause.”
Now in its 22nd year, the Melbourne Community Cup usually attracts more than 10,000 punters, raising over $100,000 for Reclink Australia. Offering unique sports, arts and recreation programs to individuals around the country, Reclink aims to provide participation opportunities for even the most disadvantaged. In turn, the Cup sees a diverse group of people coming together to enjoy some footy and live music.
“We all know how wonderful it is to be supported by strong community,” says Smith. “Reclink offers programs that build confidence in people who need it most. All of our society is much better for these services. Both teams understand the huge privilege it is to play and represent an incredible organisation.
“The entire day is like a footy and music festival. There are kids, dogs, music, old friends from all over the city and beer. There’s nothing better then bumping into an old flame or a mate you haven’t seen for a while to remind you that community is alive in Melbourne. Reclink and those who use its services benefit so much from the funds raised on the day. People who come to the Community Cup want to show that they care. They care for the well being of others and the organisations that support them. They know that their actions count.”
According to Smith, the Rockdogs are passionate, rock-fit and strong, whereas the Megahertz are focused, well trained and provide stellar cuddles. While she’s stepping onto the field as a Rockdog this year, the former-Megahert is all about the power of the unexpected.
“Variety is the spice of life and Community Cup loves a bit of controversy. I’m happy to provide it,” she says. “Mainly, I’m doing it to get back at Triple R’s Damien Lawlor.”
The head-to-head game is going ahead this Sunday, so all the players are deep into the preparation stage. However, Smith assures us that competition aside, it’s all just a bit of fun.
“I’m currently in Bali,” she says. “I like to think of it as horizontal tropical training. I’m hoping I bring some jungle magic – not just Bali belly – back with me. Realistically, I’m just glad to have a tan when running around in footy shorts.
“Reclink Cup is like footy Christmas, with 10,000 of your mates around and on the gas. I get excited, peak too soon, then realise we’re lining up for the bounce of the first quarter. I’m not much of an assist to either team. It’s nothing more than a good wrestle in the mud with old friends.”
Off-the-field entertainment at this year’s Cup includes a variety of food and beverage stalls, children’s activities and a great lineup of musical performers. Playschool’sRhys Muldoon and Spiderbait’s Kram will open the show, creating the most rocked-out kids band to ever grace the Cup stage. The Sugarcanes will make their much-anticipated debut and Loose Tooth are sure to impress the crowd before the bounce. Daddy Cool’s Ross Wilson will take care of the opening ceremony with a solo set, and Total Giovanni will appear at half time. Closing the day will be profane legends, Regurgitator.
In addition to bringing awareness to Reclink’s valuable vision and providing family-friendly fun, the day places emphasis on the importance of community radio and the work of those involved. Local radio representatives like Smith are currently rallying for changes to funding cuts imposed by the latest federal budget.
“Community radio stations are the lifeline of not only this city, but of Australia at large. It’s not just independent music and art – community radio supports and connects minority groups and non-English speaking groups. I am appalled that government are actively choosing to silence stations while making it easier for commercial media to stranglehold the airwaves. They should be ashamed. I sincerely hope these cuts do not get off the ground. I shall be maintaining this rage for the Cup. See you there.”
BY PHOEBE ROBERTSON
