Queenslanders urged to ditch the King’s Birthday to celebrate the ‘real king’ Wally Lewis

October 1, 2024 1:00

Queenslanders are being encouraged to swap and use their public holiday leave from next week’s King’s Birthday for a “more fitting tribute”, NRL legend Wally Lewis’ birthday in December, with a bold campaign via Enigma and SportsPick.

Described as the “real king” of Queensland, and someone who embodied the true spirit of the state, Lewis’ legacy is said to resonate with pride and passion across the state, more so than the current Head of State, King Charles III.

In the new campaign, Queenslanders can go online, enter their details and have a pre-populated email sent to their employer to request substituting their public holiday leave. The campaign, developed by Enigma, is also being led by Entain Group’s in-venue live sports company SportsPick in pubs, clubs, and bars, with support from ambassador and rugby league icon Cameron Smith.

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Lauren McNamara

Lauren McNamara is a freelance journalist. She previously spent three years at Mumbrella, most recently as the associate editor. She left her staff role in August 2025.