Wednesday, 3 September 2003 MEDIA RELEASE

The anthem that's captured the hearts of Rugby League fans is about to hit HMV music stores in support of the battle against Breast Cancer.

So unprecedented has been the demand for the Hoodoo Gurus' 'That's My Team' that it is now on public sale.
The Gurus, the NRL, HMV, EMI and Sony Publishing have all donated their services to ensure that every cent of the $4.99 sale price (with the exception of the GST) will be divided between the Kim Walters Choices Programme and the Joanne Mackay Foundation.

'That's My Team' has proven a phenomenon for Rugby League fans this year and is one of the truly rare occasions where an advertisement has been so popular that it has spawned its own record.

Former players Kevin Walters and Brad Mackay, who established the charities after losing their wives to Breast Cancer, hope the public will embrace the cause.

"Breast cancer touches so many people and we really appreciate the generosity of everyone involved in this project," Walters said.

"It's a very catchy song and my kids are running around the house singing it so I expect it'll give people a lot of enjoyment while also helping others who are devastated by this disease."

NRL Chief Executive, Mr David Gallop, is also confident the song will prove a hit.

"The aim is clearly to raise as much as we can on for two charities that have a tremendously close tie to Rugby League," Mr Gallop said.

"There's probably not a family in Australia that hasn't been touched by this disease and our players are no exception.

"This initiative gives everyone in the Rugby League community a chance to pull together and support a single cause.

"Whether you play for the Berala Bears under 8's or for a team in the NRL, this is your team song and you should buy it."

Gurus front man Dave Faulkner says the band was particularly keen to support the charities.

"We were saddened that two young women with such close ties to the game could be taken by the disease and more recently we've been touched by the death of a very dear friend in similar circumstances," Mr Faulkner said.

"This is a very good cause and we're delighted that our association with the game might be able to help raise some significant funds."

HMV are distributing the CD throughout all HMV stores for $4.99 and via their website www.hmv.com.au.
"HMV is extremely proud to be able to donate the proceeds from the sale of the NRL theme song, 'That's my Team' to the Kim Walters Choices Program and the Joanne Mackay Breast Cancer Foundation," said Mr Stuart Fraser, MD of HMV Australia.

"We sincerely hope that Rugby League fans and all Australians will buy a copy of this single to support the charities involved. "Thanks also to the Hoodoo Gurus for their fabulous support and their desire to release 'That's My Team' as a charity single."

EMI has produced the CD free of charge, again ensuring that money generated through the sale goes directly to the charities involved.

"We at EMI Australia are honored to be involved with such a great charity event, mixing up one of Australia's greatest-ever rock & roll bands with one of Australia's greatest music retailers and the greatest game of all.

"To know that every single cent is going to these two very worthy charities is a great thing," said Mr John O'Donnell, MD of EMI Australia.

The CD will include both 'That's My Team' and 'What's My Scene' and will be available through HMV and will also be on sale at the following venues during the finals series: September 20, 21, 27 at Aussie Stadium and September 28 & October 5 at Telstra Stadium.

The Joanne Mackay Breast Cancer Foundation raises money to subsidize the Patient Care Service Jo's Helping Hand which provides assistance in paying urgent bills, arranging medical treatment, childcare, transportation, domestic help and spiritual guidance.

The Wesley Hospital Kim Walters Choices Program (Choices) provides individual specialist support and counselling, specialised groups for partners and young women, complementary therapies, post-surgery exercise classes, and advice about broader life related topics such as stress management, sexuality issues, exercise and nutrition.

Further enquiries: John Brady 9339 8524, 0408 881 222 or Polly McCardell 93398 555, 0407 908746