Married life kicks off

Surrounded by former Melbourne Storm team-mates, rugby league star Michael Crocker married long-time girlfriend Sally Carne on the sand at Sunshine Beach yesterday.

Melbourne Storm and Queensland Rugby League player Michael Crocker and Sally Carne marry on the sands of Sunshine Beach.Warren Lynam/179921.

Surrounded by a host of his former Melbourne Storm team-mates, rugby league star Michael Crocker married long-time girlfriend Sally Carne on the sand at Sunshine Beach yesterday afternoon.

With former Storm forward Clint Newton best man and current Melbourne and Australian fullback Billy Slatter the sole groomsman, the petite bride and hulking groom were married under a white silk canopy in front of around 100 guests.

League players in attendance included Cameron Smith, Cooper Cronk, Anthony Minichiello, Steve Turner, Will Chambers, Brett White and Ryan Hoffman.

Swim star Geoff Huegill was also in attendance.

Mr Crocker, 28, and Ms Carne, 24, who met in Brisbane several years ago following a State of Origin clash, were married by a celebrant.

The attractive brunette, looking tanned and relaxed, wore a strapless chiffon gown and a veil.

Mr Crocker wore a white dress shirt and slacks.

Three violinists and a cello player performed classical music at the ceremony, which was followed by a reception at the Sunshine Beach Surf Club.

Speaking prior to the nuptials, the bride’s mother Judith said her daughter had landed herself a good man.

“I’m gaining the best son-in-law in the world,” she said, as the former Australia and Queensland representative waited on the beach for the arrival of his soon-to-be wife.

Retired Broncos and Australian winger Willie Carne, a cousin of the bride, took credit for the wedding being held at Sunshine Beach. Mr Carne is involved in real estate in the area and last year helped the couple find a house at Sunshine Beach.

He said they planned to settle in the area when Mr Crocker’s career finished.

“They were going to get married in Brisbane but I persuaded them to have it here,” Mr Carne said.

The newlyweds will leave for their Thailand honeymoon in a few days.

Originally published as Married life kicks off