Rugby League players joined some of the nation’s highest profile celebrities in delivering important pre-Easter messages warning against drink driving, thanks to a major partnership between the NRL and RADD - Recording Artists, Actors and Athletes against Drink Driving launched today.
Over 70 NRL players have already lent their voices to RADD and they join a list that includes Ian Thorpe, Delta Goodrem, Paul McCartney, Jimmy Barnes, Adam Gilchrist, Eric Bana and Missy Higgins who have recorded messages mainly targeting youth 16-25.
Craig Fitzgibbon, Craig Wing, Ashley Harrison and Peter Cusack were joined by Dave Faulkner from the Hoodoo Gurus to announce the partnership that will see messages delivered at Telstra Premiership matches and on radio that are specifically aimed at:
“We all know of the devastating effects of drink driving and we’re hopeful these messages delivered by NRL players will make people think twice about the consequences of their actions,” NRL Chief Executive Mr David Gallop said today.
“Already our players have worked extensively with the Motor Accidents Authority and we see RADD as a further way of allowing our players to take a leadership role with young fans.”
RADD Chairman, Paul Clitheroe described the partnership as an important milestone in delivering the RADD message at a grass roots level.
“We hope that one day people will not even think of driving after they’ve had a drink, not just because they’re afraid of getting caught and losing their license, but simply because it doesn’t feel right,” Mr Clitheroe said.
“To get to that point we need to effect cultural change. As Rugby League is so much a part of our culture, it is in a powerful position to help us achieve that.
“We are delighted that the NRL has chosen to adopt RADD as part of its activities for 2006 and beyond.”
Later this year, RADD will launch its own major initiative for Designated Drivers. The initiative will involve Leagues clubs as well as thousands of pubs across Australia who will offer free soft drinks for RADD cardholders when they identify themselves as the designated driver in a group.
RADD AUSTRALIA LIMITED ABN 84 111 113 458
Recording Artists, Actors and Athletes Against Drink Driving.
In partnership with the Alcohol Education & Rehabilitation Foundation Ltd - ABN 91 096 854 385