Paul Murray Live: Aug 24

Paul Murray Live is heading to the Gold Coast this Thursday for a special episode featuring local teen Joseph Pouniu whose dreams of playing for the Gold Coast Titans were dashed following a tragic on field accident that left him paralysed.

Paul Murray said: “Joseph was heading for big things in rugby league. A 16-year-old, year 11 kid, close to clinching a big-time NRL contract. He had the world at his feet. And then it all suddenly ended. It’s devastating stuff. But we want to make a difference to his life and that of his family.

“Life can be cruel – and for Joseph, fate couldn’t have dealt a much crueller hand. But this isn’t just a story of heartbreak and shattered potential. It’s a story of resilience, of unrelenting courage and love.

“So, let’s do something good, for a good family, in an unimaginably tough spot. They are so deserving of our help – and I couldn’t be prouder to be a part of it all. It’s fantastic to see the Queensland and football community come together, for Joseph.”

To showcase an uplifting example of how a school community can adapt to ensure no one is left behind, Paul Murray will visit St Eugene College in Burpengary to meet the staff and students rallying together for one of their own, as Joseph completes his final year of school at the college via talk-to-text technology on this laptop, with his teacher visiting him in the spinal unit at hospital once a week.

In Thursday’s special, Paul will speak with key players at the Gold Coast Titans, ahead of a charity fundraiser event for Joseph on Friday 25 August. Titans Chairman Dennis Watt and CEO Steve Mitchell will share why the team remains committed to Joseph and his family. Titans Club Doctor Dr Dinesh Palipana, Captain Tino Fa’Asuamaleaui and player Aaron Booth will also join the special Paul Murray Live episode to show their support.

Paul will also sit down with FOX Sports News Host and former NRL great Matty Johns and rugby league legend Gorden Tallis who have been regular bedside visitors to Joseph and will both be participating at the fundraiser. Radio broadcaster and the charity event auctioneer Ray Hadley will also be on the program.

To support Joseph, visit the Australian Sports Foundation: asf.org.au/projects/joseph-pouniu

9pm Thursday 24 August on SKY News Australia