Shane Webcke to MC Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships
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Rugby League Hall of Fame legend Shane Webcke will leave Brisbane for sweeter days, with Webcke today revealed as the MC for the Sweet Days, Hot Nights Festival’s Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships.
The Brisbane Broncos great is a household name for running onto the paddock as a Queensland Maroon 24 times and for representing Australia in 26 tests. He was also awarded the Daly M Prop of the Year award three times.
Throughout his NRL career Webcke was regarded as one of the toughest in the game– but he says even that hasn’t prepared him for the intensity of hand cane cutting.
“I’ve never been near sugar cane, including cane cutting knives. I think I might give the competition a miss – lest I return home minus a limb or two!” Webcke joked.
“I’m looking forward to mixing with regional Queenslanders and soaking up the atmosphere of one of our iconic industries. It’s sure to be an enjoyable occasion.”
Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Lyn McLaughlin said Shane Webcke was a great fit for the national hand cane cutting competition.
“The Sweet Days, Hot Nights Festival is all about showcasing and celebrating our rich agricultural region here in the Burdekin, from our world-class produce to our iconic sugar cane fires,” she said.
“Shane grew up on a sheep property in the Southern Darling Downs and now owns his own farm where he runs wool growers, fattens lambs and grows grains. He has a great appreciation of all things agriculture and is a perfect match for the festival.
“I had the pleasure of hearing Shane speak in the Burdekin last November. He is such an engaging speaking who resonated with the entire audience. We’re incredibly excited him to have him come on board as part of the 2019 Sweet Days, Hot Nights Festival.”
The Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships kicks off from 11am on Saturday 1 June at the Home Hill Showgrounds, with finals to commence from 2:15pm.
The Championships is one of three events making up this year’s Sweet Days, Hot Nights Festival between 30 May and 1 June. For more information, visit www.sweetdayshotnights.com.au.