This Friday night, footy takes on a bold new look—and an even bolder mission—as the Gold Coast Titans, in partnership with The Lottery Office and national youth cancer charity Canteen, gear up to turn Cbus Super Stadium into a sea of bandannas. The 13 June clash between the Titans and the Sea Eagles won’t just be about what happens on the field, but also about rallying for a powerful cause: raising support and awareness for young Australians impacted by cancer.
In a unique twist to game night tradition, 10,000 specially designed Titans X Canteen X The Lottery Office bandannas will be handed out to fans, courtesy of Principal Partner The Lottery Office. At half-time, all eyes will be on the stands rather than the scoreboard, as Fancam technology takes a 360-degree image to officially count how many fans are donning the iconic headwear—an attempt to break the world record for most people wearing bandannas at once.
The number to beat? 5,105 participants. With a high-energy Gold Coast crowd expected to fill the stands, the Titans faithful may well take the title and turn it into a moment of community pride.
But more than bragging rights are at stake. The event shines a spotlight on Canteen’s vital work supporting young people whose lives have been upended by cancer—whether it’s their own diagnosis or that of someone close to them. Canteen’s services include specialised counselling, tailored programs, and peer support that connects young Australians navigating the realities of cancer. For 40 years, the organisation has stood as a pillar of strength for thousands of young people across the country.
Canteen’s incoming CEO, Siona Hardy, sees the record attempt as an opportunity to unite the community behind a message of solidarity and hope.
“This world record attempt is more than just a fun, bold challenge – it’s a powerful show of community,” Hardy said. “Whether it’s the Gold Coast Titans fans rallying together, our partners at The Lottery Office lending their support, or thousands of people proudly wearing bandannas in the stands, it all sends a strong message to young people impacted by cancer; you are not alone.”
The sense of connection and camaraderie is at the heart of Canteen’s mission. Hardy added, “Community and teamwork play a vital role in helping young people feel supported and seen, and we’re so proud to be part of this incredible moment of unity and hope – particularly in this, our 40th year, of supporting young people through cancer.”
In Queensland alone, the impact of Canteen is tangible. The organisation has four programs slated for the Gold Coast in 2025, including camp getaways that offer young people a much-needed break and the opportunity to connect with peers who understand what they’re going through. Beyond the camps, Canteen also provides critical support to the Youth Cancer Services team at the Gold Coast University Hospital—ensuring access to high-quality, age-appropriate care.
Gold Coast Titans CEO Steve Mitchell echoed the importance of the initiative, highlighting the role sport can play in supporting broader community efforts.
“To be able to join with Canteen and The Lottery Office for this world record attempt is something we are excited to be a part of,” Mitchell said. “Cancer is something that affects almost everyone in our community in some way. We know that we will have players, staff, members and fans who are in some way dealing with their own cancer battle at the moment.”
While breaking the record is an exciting goal, Mitchell said the greater win lies in what the moment represents. “The real win for us in this initiative is being able to raise awareness of the wonderful work that Canteen does to support so many people in our community and across the country.”
The Lottery Office has played a significant role in bringing this event to life. Based on the Gold Coast and proudly Australian-owned, the organisation recently donated $80,000 to help expand Canteen’s on-the-ground services in Darwin. Now, with the 13 June world record attempt, their efforts are helping shine a spotlight on local youth cancer support.
The Lottery Office CEO Jaclyn Wood said the cause is deeply meaningful for the team.
“As an Australian-owned and operated organisation, we believe giving back is the ultimate jackpot, and we are honoured to partner with Canteen and the Titans for this very important record attempt and what it means for youths locally,” Wood said.
“Together, we are raising awareness, building community, and showing young people that they’re not alone. Gold Coast, it’s your time to stand tall with your bandannas on, and show the world what real, record-breaking support looks like.”
For those wanting to be part of the attempt and show their colours for a cause, tickets are available via Ticketmaster for the 13 June Titans vs Sea Eagles match at Cbus Super Stadium. Every attendee wearing a bandanna will not only help set a record but also take part in a heartening moment of unity.
To learn more about Canteen and how you can support their work, visit canteen.org.au.
Get your tickets and help the Titans and Canteen break the world record and raise funds and awareness for Youth Cancer.
