This June, the stakes are high for Friday night Footy both on and off the field as Cbus Super Stadium transforms into a sea of bright bandannas, with Gold Coast Titans, The Lottery Office and charity Canteen calling on fans to help break a world record, and raise critical support for young people impacted by cancer.
During the Titans vs Sea Eagles match on Friday 13 June, 10,000 specially designed Titans X Canteen X The Lottery Office bandannas will be handed out thanks to Principal Partner The Lottery Office. At half-time, the number of fans wearing bandannas at once will be captured by record measuring technology, Fancam.
Taking a 360-degree snapshot at the time of the attempt, the incredible quality of the image will enable an accurate count of all bandannas present, as well as give participants a momento of the night, with the ability to spot themselves up close in the stadium crowd.
Currently the bandanna wearing-record to beat sits at 5,105 participants – with a raring Gold Coast community at the ready, the title could soon be in the hands of Titans fans.
Beyond bragging rights, the race for the record will spotlight the vital work of Canteen – a not-for-profit national charity supporting young Australians affected by cancer, whether it be their own diagnosis or that of a loved one.
For 40 years, Canteen has provided life-changing support and access to specialised counselling, tailored programs and peer connection to young Australians navigating the challenges of cancer. Their iconic fundraising and awareness day – Bandanna Day – will be held on Thursday 30 October this year.
Canteen’s incoming CEO Siona Hardy said the special record attempt would open the doors of support wider than ever before and form a powerful way to unite Aussies to get behind local young people doing it tough.
“This world record attempt is more than just a fun, bold challenge – it’s a powerful show of community,” Ms Hardy said.
“Whether it’s the Gold Coast Titans fans rallying together, our partners at The Lottery Office lending their support, or thousands of people proudly wearing bandannas in the stands, it all sends a strong message to young people impacted by cancer; you are not alone.”
“Community and teamwork play a vital role in helping young people feel supported and seen, and we’re so proud to be part of this incredible moment of unity and hope – particularly in this, our 40th year, of supporting young people through cancer.”
“We’re thrilled that the Gold Coast Titans and The Lottery Office are on our team!”
On the Gold Coast alone, Canteen has 4 programs coming up for 2025, most notably camp getaways that offer respite and peer connection to young people navigating their experience. Canteen also supports the doctors, nurses and social workers within the Youth Cancer Services at the Gold Coast University Hospital - ensuring young people with cancer get gold-standard age-appropriate care.
Gold Coast Titans CEO Steve Mitchell said the match was a chance to show the true spirit of the Gold Coast community, forming a measure of just how loud and proud the support can be.
“To be able to join with Canteen and The Lottery Office for this world record attempt is something we are excited to be a part of,” Mr Mitchell said.
“Cancer is something that affects almost everyone in our community in some way. We know that we will have players, staff, members and fans who are in some way dealing with their own cancer battle at the moment.”
“While gaining the record will be a wonderful thing to celebrate, the real win for us in this initiative is being able to raise awareness of the wonderful work that Canteen does to support so many people in our community and across the country.”
“We’re expecting a really big crowd to this match, and I can’t wait to see the half-time moment when the stadium is filled with bandannas and the crowd has a chance to be part of the history making moment.”
Principal Partner of the Titans and close collaborator of Canteen Australia, Gold-Coast based The Lottery Office, is proud to collaborate on making the upcoming world record attempt on 13 June a possibility.
A recent $80,000 donation from the organisation has enabled Canteen to expand on-the-ground support services in Darwin. Its ongoing partnership continues to drive awareness across Australia, with sights now set on the Gold Coast community through this initiative.
The Lottery Office CEO Jaclyn Wood said Canteen is a cause close to the team’s hearts.
“As an Australian-owned and operated organisation, we believe giving back is the ultimate jackpot, and we are honoured to partner with Canteen and the Titans for this very important record attempt and what it means for youths locally,” Ms Wood said.
“Together, we are raising awareness, building community, and showing young people that they’re not alone.”
“Gold Coast, it’s your time to stand tall with your bandannas on, and show the world what real, record-breaking support looks like.”
Minister for Sport, Racing, and Olympic and Paralympic Games Tim Mander said it is great to see the community connecting through sport.
“Sport has the unique ability to bring people together, whether it’s through participating or supporting your local team,” Minister Mander said.
“It’s great to see the power of the sporting community as they come together for an important cause and support their fellow Queenslanders, and I really encourage everyone to get behind this initiative.”
To be part of the record attempt on 13 June, secure your ticket to the Titans v Sea Eagles special match and witness history unfold at Cbus Super Stadium.
To find out more about Canteen and get support, visit www.canteen.org.au