From Danny Weidler SMH Column -
Kikau’s Fiji toy drive
Bulldogs forward Viliame Kikau is an unlikely Santa Claus – but that’s the role he will play when he returns to his homeland Fiji this month.
The NRL star will bring Christmas magic to hundreds of underprivileged children across the Pacific nation through a heartwarming toy drive organised by his Kikau Academy in partnership with Australian toy company Kidstuff.
Kikau and his academy partners will distribute donated Kidstuff toys to orphanages, women’s shelters, and children’s charities throughout Fiji on December 19-20.
It’s a great gesture and partnership. The aim of the academy is beyond finding a developing league talent. He has consistently worked to create opportunities and bring hope to communities in need, particularly in his homeland.
“Growing up in Fiji, I remember Christmas being a difficult time for many families who couldn’t afford to buy gifts for their kids,” the Bulldogs enforcer said.
“Those memories have always stayed with me. We came up with this initiative with Kidstuff because we wanted to give back to families who are doing it tough back home and make this Christmas a bit more joyous for them. If we can put a smile on these kids’ faces by giving out some toys, then it’s all worth it.
“Christmas should be a special time for every child, and I’m grateful to Kidstuff and the Kikau Academy team for helping us make that happen for kids in Fiji who need it most.”
Viliame Kikau is in Fiji for a coaching clinic. @NRL_Bulldogs will be looking to scholarship young local boys and girls in Viliame’s name to aid development and provide opportunities to pursue their dreams.
Samuela Ratavola and George Satakala have become the inaugural signees of @BillKikau1 academy in Fiji. This marks the first-ever enrollment into the academy that serves as a pathway to the @NRL_Bulldogs in the @NRL#TeamFiji#RugbyLeague#FijiRugby
#EXCLUSIVE: Sunday night will be Viliame Kikau's third straight Grand Final - but this one is different.
Sitting in the stands will be his number one supporter, who could have been alongside him as a teammate, had tragedy not ended his footballing dream. @ZacBailey14#9News
@AlboMP@AlboMP@FijiPM we need the same initiative implemented for the hospitality industry in Australia,staff shortages are crippling hospitality businesses.Fijians have the best hospitality in the world,would be a win win scenario for both countries
#EXCLUSIVE: The day after losing their second coach in less than two years, there is some good news for the @NRL_Bulldogs tonight.
Star recruits Viliame Kikau and Reed Mahoney have confirmed they will honour deals to head to Belmore next season. @Danny_Weidler#9News
Very busy this week. First day of training for our new young recruit from Fiji. Off the plane and straight into the gym. Big change of life for him. I will have our @NRL_Bulldogs media team introduce him to you next week.
"It's never been about money. I drive in an 07 Passat! .. I know money can't make happiness .. all I ever want to do is win!"
@Tyson_Fury speaking truths once again.
#FuryWhyte