In order to facilitate people who have had serious sporting injuries to enjoy their lives, and achieve their fullest potential, equipment such as wheelchairs needs to be provided to them wherever they are eligible. Fortunately, some charities exist to provide that which is reasonable and necessary, such as Hearts in Rugby promoted by the Old Ignatians Union and ARU.

In exchange for free tickets to the England versus Australia rugby face-off, the Sydney Test, two of the finest rugby union players to have ever worn blue and white and graced the fields of Riverview, les monsieurs Richard Ouvrier and Andrew Turnbull (OR 1985), partook of the quid pro quo and brought in a motza for Hearts to be distributed wisely to its recipients. A magnificent charity it is, a cri de coeur for social, Ignatian, justice, aspiring to the realisation of a basic human right entitling all to community participation, not just the able-bodied. For that would be the sin and offense of ableism. And, under the UN Convention on the Rights of People with Disabilities adopted into Australian domestic law, people disabled in sport need equipment for a good life fully involved in the Australian community, for having a life worth living.

Social inclusivity adds to societal diversity, women, racial minorities, those with disabilities, and is generally regarded as an intrinsic good for both the disabled and able-bodied alike. Increasingly, also, it is considered an economic boon which adds to our national prosperity, often by enhancing workforce participation, self-esteem and a reduced tax burden. What's not to like?

Win-Win, just like Australia-China diplomatic relations are currently placed, teeteringly, but altogether gentler, milder mannered and ludic.

Ouvrier and Turnbull hearteningly gave their charitable all for Hearts in Rugby that night and for that they are all the richer in spirit. So is Riverview!

Afterwards, they deservedly reposed from their Herculean labours, as though they had been slaying lions in Nemia, by watching the riveting match, enjoying it heartily, albeit with a qualification stemming from an English victory, and daring to do as much as they could, Christian gentlemen both, rugby too was a victor: Quantam potes tantum aude!

Others helped out too. Until next time.

Richard Ouvrier (OR85)