‘Clash of the Titans’ mural gives Aussie Wheelaroos a timely boost

A work of art inspired by the Wheelchair Rugby League World Cup has earned a tick of approval from our very own Aussie Wheelaroos as they prepare for their tilt at a world crown in Wollongong.

Starting today (Friday 30 October), eight nations will be vying for the World Cup trophy, with the WIN Entertainment Centre to host all 20 matches over 15 days.

In honour of the event, Wollongong City Council’s public art team commissioned local artist Sam Hall to bring the ‘Clash of the Titans’ concept to life in lower Crown Street.

The Wheelaroos got their first look at the work this week ahead of their tournament-opener against New Zealand on Friday night. Skipper Bayley McKenna said the support from the people of Wollongong will provide added inspiration for his side.

“It’s unreal. This is the first time we’ve ever had something like this happen for us and it really shows that we’ve got the backing of Wollongong,” McKenna said.

“We had four or five people on the way here stop and tell us they’d just seen the mural up the road and that’s really cool for us. Having something like this, in a place like this, just up the road from where we’re playing, it’s really special.”

McKenna said fans turning out over the next fortnight won’t leave disappointed, and urged Wollongong to get out support the Wheelaroos in their push for a maiden World Cup crown.

“The boys are all pumped to have the World Cup in Australia, especially down in Wollongong,” he said.

“The boys have put in so much work to be where we are, we’re all wearing the green and gold and we’re ready to represent our country. The game’s fast, there’s a lot of big bangs, big collisions, so it’s very fun, it’s family friendly, it’s a great spectator sport so get behind us. We’re looking forward to having a home-crowd advantage.”

See the tournament website for game times and tickets.

The Wheelchair Rugby League World Cup will begin on Friday alongside a World Cup double-header at WIN Stadium featuring England’s men’s and women’s teams taking on Papua New Guinea and Samoa respectively.

Lord Mayor of Wollongong Councillor Tania Brown said hosting World Cup fixtures is further endorsement of Wollongong’s status as a home of major sporting events.

“It’s terrific to once again see world-level, elite sporting competition taking place here in Wollongong,” Cr Brown said.

“It’s something our community is no stranger to, and the next fortnight is a golden opportunity to see world class athletes in action, and to cheer on our Wheelaroos as they chase a home World Cup crown in our backyard.

“We’ve found a creative and inspiring way to show our support through our public art program and the creation of this wonderful mural that will ensure the tournament leaves a lasting impression on Wollongong.

“I encourage our whole community to get out experience the tournament and be inspired by these athletes. Go Wheelaroos!”