NRL legend encourages fans to drink wise on State of Origin game night

NRL fans are being encouraged to drink wise during this year’s State of Origin series, with former NRL legends joining with Drinkwise to promote the message.

Drinkwise has partnered with the NRL and Blues legend Michael Ennis to encourage moderation and respect to help ensure fans enjoy Origin safely and respectfully.

State of Origin game days in Australia see a significant rise in alcohol-fueled incidents, with non-domestic assaults rising 71 per cent compared to other Wednesdays, while domestic violence reports rising by over 40 per cent.

Ennis, who represented NSW on eight occasions, hopes the campaign will help reduce those numbers.

“I just think it's a great initiative, especially around State of Origin, such an enormous event on the sporting calendar in Australia and, we wanna remember it for what happens on the field.

“I think that's the big thing, not what happens off it and, you know, if people are gonna have a drink, whether that's at home, at a pub or a club or even at the game, just make sure that, they do so in moderation and, and just be respectful of the people that are around them.

“We certainly want the Blues fans to get right behind their team.

“The one message that is really important for the fans is, whether they're at home, whether they're out at pubs or clubs or whether they're lucky enough to be here and experience the game.

“Let's remember it for the memories and the moments that happen on the field, not what happens off it. His message was echoed by Simon Strahan, the CEO of Drinkwise.

“This Always Respect, Always Drinkwise campaign is a really important one because it's a reminder for those who are planning on having a drink or watching State of Origin to do so in moderation and respect everyone around them,” Simon Strahan said.

“This is a fantastic event, there's lots of passion, but we want everyone to make sure they have a safe and enjoyable time.

“The main message we want to convey to fans as part of this always respect, always drink wise message is to enjoy that origin experience (and) make sure that the focus remains the action on the field.

“So if you are choosing to have a drink, do so in moderation and make sure you're showing respect to everyone around you.

“The great part about this Always Respect, Always Drink Wise campaign is that it has very much a community focus to it.

“Drinkwise is working with the New South Wales government, New South Wales Police, support services, Accor stadium to make sure that message can really get out there to all fans.

“This always respect Always Drink Wise campaign isn't about moderating the passion of State of Origin.

“That's one of the great things about this game, but it is about encouraging people to moderate their consumption if they are choosing to have a drink and to always show respect to those around them."

If you or someone else is struggling with managing alcohol consumption or behaviour, especially when these choices impact the safety of their family or others, contact:

• Men's Referral Service: 1300 766 491 or visit www.ntv.org.au
• 1800Respect: call 1800 737 732, text 0458 737 732 or visit 1800respect.org.au
• 13 Yarn (Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander service): call 13 92 76 or visit 13yarn.org.au