Sydney Swans CEO and Managing Director Andrew Ireland hit a half century for a good cause this week.

After hitting the pavement at Oxford Street in Paddington on Wednesday afternoon, Ireland and vendor Dave sold 50 copies of The Big Issue as part of the magazine’s International Vendor Week.

More than 100 business and government leaders have taken part in the week, as part of a global movement to raise awareness for the men and women who are proudly working to improve their lives through selling street papers around the world.

In Australia, The Big Issue magazine has provided opportunities for homeless and disadvantaged people to earn an income for more than 20 years. Vendors buy copies of the magazine for $3.50 and sell them to the public for $7, earning a meaningful income.

Ireland said the experience of selling street magazines was an eye opener.

“It was terrific to be able to spend some time with Dave and help support The Big Issue this week. Although I often see street vendors, I’d never fully appreciated what a tough job they have in selling magazines – just getting passers-by to acknowledge us was really challenging,” Ireland said.

“I would like to extend my thanks to all those who did stop and encourage others to do the same next time they see a Big Issue vendor.”

In December, Sydney Swans players Harry Cunningham, Sam Murray and Tyrone Leonardis took part in The Big Issue’s inaugural Footy Sales Challenge, selling copies of the magazine at Bondi Junction in the lead-up to Christmas.