BARNETT SET FOR
Treasure Island is set to tackle A treasure of New Zealand rugby league es for charity. fellow celebrities in efforts to win rich re Island, Howick Before setting out for Celebrity Treasu pared for the local Richie Barnett appeared well pre challenges ahead.
“I love challenges, and I’m keen to test myself under pressure. There are a whole lot of other characters [on the show] so let’s see what unfolds,” he said. “[I will] try not to be overbearing as a leader… Just fitting in that middle tier. That’s what I like to do naturally, and I want to stay in my comfort zone.” Currently plying his trade as a commentator, Richie captained the Kiwis and played for NRL and Super League clubs during a stellar sporting career.
Screening from this month, the TVNZ show sees competitors use their guile and physicality to win challenges and, importantly, raise money for their chosen charities. “I am supporting the Sports Implementation Foundation,” Richie confirms. “We are working [to help] children who have lost a parent, using sport as the vehicle. We [would] welcome a well-being package for those kids, take them on the Spirit of Adventure and offer them a mentor.” Richie is no stranger to working for charities; he has been an outspoken advocate for people managing Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, a devastating condition with which he has grappled since sustaining an on-field injury towards the end of his playing career. However, the former NRL star says he is “good to go” with regards to ‘island life’. “I am quite happy to be in amongst it all. I will be happy without all the social media… I love nature and do a lot of bush walks. Having limited food, and being in a situation I have never been in, will be an experience.” To read EastLife’s feature interview with Richie, see our October 2017 e-edition, accessible the ‘past issues’ tab at via www.eastlife.co.nz.
Richie Barnett
24 | eastlife | september 2021
www.eastlife.co.nz
