Rebel launches Artie Beetson ball to help communities

Rebel sports has announced a new initiative with the Arthur Beetson Foundation that will help improve outcomes in First Nations communities.

Rebel has collaborated with the Queensland Rugby League to launch a limited-edition ball that will be available at all Queensland stores. 50 per cent of all profits will be donated to the Arthur Beetson Foundation.

The ball features artwork created by Arthur’s niece, Bianca Beetson,  whose artwork embodies the life and legacy of Arthur, including the connection between Arthur and his hometown of Roma, the Maroons and the journey he took to represent Queensland.

The launch of the new ball coincides with the Artie Legacy Medal round between the Redcliffe Dolphins and Sydney Roosters on 2 May at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane, at which a statue resides in his honour.

As a Rugby League Immortal, Arthur Beetson’s legacy lives on through his contributions as a player and a coach both on and off the field.

The Arthur Beetson Foundation was set up in honour of Arthur’s remarkable legacy to engage the community to empower First Nations Peoples to achieve better outcomes in health, education, sport, employment and business development.

Rebel’s latest initiative is part of an ongoing relationship with the Foundation since its inception in 2012 and its commitment to reconciliation, set out in Super Retail Group’s Reconciliation Action Plan.

Meg Zalewski, General Manager of Retail Operations at rebel is proud that this initiative aligns the retailer’s values with such an important cause.

“Arthur Beetson is etched in Australian sporting history as one of the greats, but equally his standing as a proud First Nations man and cultural icon cements his legacy as one of the most important Australians in our history,” Ms Zalewski said.

“At Rebel, we’re proud of our continued relationship with the Arthur Beetson Foundation and together with the QRL we hope that this new initiative helps them in their ongoing efforts to improve outcomes for First Nations communities.”

Arthur’s son Brad Beetson is proud of the Foundation’s continued efforts in celebrating his father’s legacy.

“Our family is immensely proud of my dad’s achievements both on and off the field, and he would be proud of the ongoing work that our Foundation has done in his name. We’re excited about this new collaboration with rebel and the QRL, and are encouraging all footy fans to get behind this and pick up the ball at their local rebel store,” Mr Beetson said.

Ben Ikin, CEO of Queensland Rugby League, said he was keen to see fans of the code get behind this latest initiative.

“The name Arthur Beetson is synonymous with our game, especially in Queensland. We thank the Beetson family and rebel for driving this fantastic initiative, which will raise money for a very important cause,” Mr Ikin said.

The Camp Maroons 2025 Indigenous Supporter Ball is available now at all Queensland rebel stores and selected stores nationally or via rebelsport.com.au.