He might have racked up a hefty phone bill during his visit, but Matthew Warnock refused to take a backwards step in his effort towards raising much-needed funds for GOLD FM’s annual Give Me Five for Kids charity campaign.

Joined by sporting celebrities and business leaders from across the Gold Coast at Tweeds Heads Hospital, the 195cm defender took his support for the fundraising initiative to great lengths – handcuffing him to the seat of a wheelchair and set himself a target for $1000 for his immediate release.

In between calling some of the club’s local corporate sponsors and business partners, Warnock told goldcoastfc.com.au he had been looking forward to taking part in the event.

“We’re here trying to raise money for kids in hospital so that they can get the best possible care available,” he said.

While things began to look dire after Warnock struggling to reach friends, family and fellow teammates, the on-field leader credited Metricon Homes for helping to get the ball rolling for the veteran backman.

“Received $500 from Metricon Homes which was fantastic by them, so now just waiting for a couple more call backs and hopefully I can get there in the end,” Warnock said.

GOLD FM’s radio hosts Richard, Bridge and Spida commended Warnock for his hard work with Bridge telling goldcoastfc.com.au that the participant’s involvement had helped the event reach new heights this year.

“The event is in it’s fifteenth year now and we’ve raised over $1 million for the Gold Coast and Tweed Hospitals, with all the money raised going towards purchasing equipment for the children’s ward – so we have to do our best to raise as much money as we can.”

Spida also praised the community for their contribution on the phone lines.

“It’s great to see not just the celebrities but also the community pinch in for the month as well,” he said.

“We know it’s a tough time so whether it’s 5 cents, $5 or $50 all the support goes a long way.”