The Big Issue

In 2006, having sent the street socceroos to represent Australia in Edinburgh in 2005, and Capetown in 2006, General Manager Steven Persson and coach George Halkias at The Big Issue put together a bid to host the 2008 Homeless World Cup. With the cooperation of key agencies including City of Melbourne, Victoria Police, the Victorian State Government and Victorian Major Events; the bid was successful and The Big Issue was officially handed the responsibility for delivering the sixth annual Homeless World Cup.

Fast forward to May 2008 - with strong government and corporate support the wheels are in motion for The Big Issue to host the largest Homeless World Cup to date.

It takes a dedicated team behind the scenes to coordinate this unique event and to make it possible The Big Issue has pulled together a team of operations staff to manage each and every aspect of the event. The team bring with them a wealth of experience in the event industry and have worked across high profile events including Melbourne 2006 Commonwealth Games, 2006 Asian Games, 2003 Rugby World Cup as well as within the government and community sectors.

Sam Blackstone - Chief Operating Officer

As Chief Operating Officer Sam is responsible for overall event planning and delivery. She is in charge of the budget, visas and immigration and is working closely with stakeholders and Victoria Police to ensure the event is a safe and enjoyable experience for participants and spectators alike.

Matt Gronow - Operations Manager

In short, Matt is transforming Federation Square and Birrarung Marr into a vibrant sporting precinct and ensuring all competition procedures are in place from technology, pitches and grandstands to referees and ball boys.

Sally Crittenden - Operations Manager

Sally has the task of communicating with teams prior to their arrival and handling team inquiries. Sally is also putting together a medical team; duty of care for the players is a high priority. Sally will coordinate local and international media and put together the opening parade, which will be a highlight for the teams.

Melissa Hansen - Operations Manager

Melissa is in charge of the Athletes’ Village. She is responsible for providing meals, beds, transport and uniforms for each and every player that comes to Melbourne. She will also coordinate team training facilities and a schedule of activities and entertainment to ensure the Village becomes a home away from home for the teams. Melissa is also busy recruiting up to 600 volunteers.

Rebecca Yoland - Event Coordinator

Rebecca plays a huge role supporting each and every member of the team with every aspect of the event. She will also be responsible for event functions and trophy presentations.

These key staff are supported by The Big Issue staff across the areas of Finance, Administration and Marketing and Communications.