- Sponsor has created specialised boots for Origin game two
- Will be worn by newly appointed captain Cameron Munster
Queensland captain Cameron Munster is set to pull on a very special boot for his 20th State of Origin match in Perth next week, but there is just one big problem – the footwear could break Western Australian law.
Munster is set to don a unique pair of custom-made boots for State of Origin II, courtesy of his sponsor Puma.
They will include his home postcode from Rockhampton in central Queensland, along with a new and rare feature – some dirt from his junior footy club.
Puma have sourced actual earth from North Knights Junior Rugby League in Rockhampton where Munster played his earliest footy, and have embedded it into the boots.
The layer of dirt has been built in just above the cleated outer sole and is supposed to be a symbol that he is carrying home soil with him for the match.
‘Playing for your state is the highest honour in football,’ Munster said.
Cameron Munster has been named captain for the Queensland Maroons ahead of State of Origin II in Perth on Wednesday
Munster will wear a specially designed boot that includes a layer of Rockhampton dirt from his junior footy club in Queensland, which breaches WA biosecurity laws
‘As a Queenslander there’s a special connection to where I come from that you can’t describe, you can only feel, and knowing that I’m taking a bit of Rocky with me when I step out against the Blues gives me a real boost.
‘Playing interstate is always a challenge, but these boots remind me that no matter where I am, a part of home is always with me.
‘It’s a powerful symbol of our community’s support and the pride we share in our roots. When you’re out there wearing your state colours, it already means a lot – but having something physical that connects you to home? That’s next level.’
However, there could be a problem: Western Australia has some of the strictest biosecurity legislation in the country – and that means no soil is allowed to cross the WA border.
You cannot bring earth or other items potentially carrying soil across the WA border, including in personal belongings or equipment like mowers.
All items that could potentially carry soil must be thoroughly cleaned and declared to Quarantine WA.
Penalties for violating these laws can range from written warnings to infringement notices and prosecution.
The maximum penalty for a high-impact organism offence is $100,000 and 12 months imprisonment, while other offences can result in fines of between $5000 and $50,000.
Munster (pictured) cut his teeth for the North Rockhampton Knights and Central Queensland Capras in Rockhampton before debuting for the Melbourne Storm
Munster (pictured with wife Bianca) said it was an honour to captain his state after replacing Daly Cherry-Evans, who was omitted for Origin II in Perth
There are a host of Queensland supporters praising the initiative, but others have pointed out that Munster may not be able to wear the boots after all.
‘Until the WA government burn your boots for their strict biosecurity laws,’ one fan posted with a laughing emoji.
Munster edged out fellow Storm teammate Harry Grant and Gold Coast prop and captain Tino Fa’asuamaleaui for the captaincy role.
He replaces former skipper Daly Cherry-Evans, who was axed after the 18-6 loss in game one of this year’s series.
Munster had a tear in his eye when asked if he ever envisaged being Maroons captain.
‘It’s all pretty emotional. If you asked me that question five or 10 years ago everyone would have laughed in your face,’ Munster said.
‘I think I have developed into a bit of a leadership role over the last three or four years and grown up a little bit. I know that’s hard to say.
‘I’m very excited to lead this team out. I know it’s terrible circumstances with Chez (Cherry-Evans), I’m really good close mates with him. It’s disappointing but someone had to take the role.’
