Newcastle United’s reach stretches far beyond the banks of the River Tyne. On the other side of the world, there are supporters who are just as passionate about the Magpies as those born within a stone’s throw of St James’ Park.
In less than eight weeks, those who bleed black and white almost 10,000 miles away will link up and celebrate all things Newcastle, in aid of charities in the UK and Australia. A weekend of Toon-related activities will conclude with like-minded fans watching the Magpies’ home clash against Bournemouth - a midnight kick-off Down Under.
Ironically, it was good old-fashioned Geordie kindness that helped organise the fundraiser. Tim Brown, originally from Jesmond, moved to Australia eight years ago - but his burning passion for Newcastle remains.
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As part of NUFC Sydney, Tim has clubbed together with fan clubs across the country to organise the first-time event. The experience of watching the Magpies with fellow supporters will be unprecedented for several attendees.
“We have picked the weekend we play Bournemouth,” Tim told ChronicleLive. “On the Friday night, we are planning on hosting welcome drinks and then organising a football competition on Saturday, leading up to an event at Cheers bar in Sydney.
“Over The Wall and Toon Under, two Australian-based Newcastle podcasts, are going to do a live show, too. We’ll have a raffle, auctions and all watch the game together.
“There are lots of Newcastle fan groups in Australia: NUFC Sydney, the Aussie Mags, Toon Army Brisbane and Newcastle United Perth. We’ve always had events spread across the country but we are yet to have a national fan meet-up.
“This event is in Sydney but we plan to have a different host city each year. With the takeover and all of the excitement around the club, this is the perfect time to do it. We have sold over 50 tickets so far and there are still almost two months until the event - which we are happy about.”
While fun, friendship and football are at the heart of the event - charity is of equal importance. All proceeds from the get-together will be donated to those suffering from cancer.
Tim insists raising funds for the North East was essential, while an Australian charity - set up in honour of former West Ham United footballer Dylan Tombides - will also benefit.
He added: “Exactly half of all profits will go to the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation and the other 50% towards DT38, a testicular cancer charity based in Australia. Having Sir Bobby’s charity represented was really important to us.
“We wanted to raise money for a local North East charity and Sir Bobby stands out to us all as Newcastle fans. I had a season ticket when he was our manager and remember those days fondly.”
To buy a ticket, even if you are based in the UK and simply wish to donate, click this link here. The event will span across two days on September 16 and 17 in Sydney. Tickets are priced at $30 - around £17.
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