New York Magpies

Australia Day Party Raises over US$1,600 (AUS$3,200) for Sydney Bushfire Fund

New York City, Monday, January 28th, 2002.

An unusually warm winter night brought out the best in New York's Australian
contingent, as over 350 revelers filled Dewey's Flatiron Bar to support the
NSW Bushfire Benefit on Australia Day, Saturday January 26th. The event,
hosted by the New York Magpies Australian Rules Football Club, raised
US$1,690 (approx. AUS$3,280) to help those affected by the bushfires that
devastated vast areas around Sydney.

New Yorkers, with the heroics of their own fire fighters fresh in their
memories, were only too happy to party for the cause. Despite the
Australian theme, the crowd largely comprised American friends keen to taste
some of the Australian beer, sausage rolls, vegemite rolls and companionship
on offer. Australian music played all through the night and Australian
films were projected on an enormous screen. Overall, everyone had a
brilliant time.

Peter Gurry, Club President, said "The event was a huge success! The
Magpies are quickly gaining a reputation for hosting exceptional events that
assist in the development of the game within the New York City region." The
Magpies are already looking forward to hosting their next big show, The
ANZAC Day Anarchy Barbecue at Bowery Bar, which already promises to be
colossal.

The New York Magpies won the Second Division at the 2001 USAFL National
Championships. If you would like to play footy for the Magpies, or be
involved in future New York Magpies Social Events, please contact the
Swoopline on (212) 208-4405, email the Club Secretary at
secretary@nyfooty.com , or visit www.nyfooty.com.

- Sean Keenan
(153)