Ian Chappell to launch Hope Cup for homelessness in Adelaide

deansimpson7
Aug 4
2 min read

Riverside Gawler Salvos Corps Officer Major Darren Dwyer and Senior Sgt. Rob Mowday from Gawler Police ready to do battle on the cricket field. Image: supplied

BY ANTHONY CASTLE

Aussie cricket legend Ian Chappell will be the special guest at The Salvation Army Hope Cup homelessness fundraiser in Adelaide on Friday 8 August.

The event, organised by Riverside Gawler Salvos, acts as a launch for the annual cricket match between The Salvation Army Riverside All Stars and the Gawler Police, to be held this year on Sunday 16 November.

“All profits raised from the launch evening will go towards supporting those who are experiencing homelessness and doing it tough in the Gawler and Barossa communities,” said Riverside Gawler Corps Officer Major Darren Dwyer.

“But we’re so excited to announce that Ian Chappell will be our special guest at this year’ Hope Cup launch. He’s considered one of the greatest cricketing captains the world has seen, and sharing an evening with Ian is sure to be a unique event.”

Ian Chappell played cricket for South Australia and Australia throughout the 1970s. Nicknamed ‘Chappelli’, he led Australia from 1971 to 1975 before playing a key role in the rebel World Series Cricket venture under Kerry Packer.

After retiring in 1980, he became a cricket commentator, predominantly for Channel 9. He had been inducted into several sporting halls of fame, including the Sport Australia Hall of Fame in 1986, the Australian Cricket Hall of Fame in 2003 and the International Cricket Hall of Fame in 2009.

Earlier this year, Darren was named Gawler Citizen of the Year for his work in the community, particularly around homelessness and the funds raised by the Hope Cup.

“The focus of the Hope Cup is safe sleeping, looking at sleeping pods, more long-term accommodation, and appropriate supports for those wanting to escape a life on the streets,” Darren said.

“The Riverside Salvos regularly opens its doors for the homeless to access showers and meals, providing emergency relief, food parcels, and clothing.”

Nixon’s Function Centre in Gawler is hosting the launch, with profits from ticket sales being donated to the Hope Cup. The evening will also feature unique cricketing memorabilia and the Hope Cup auction. The tickets are $100 (plus a booking fee) and can be purchased here.