NQ’S DEFENCE INFRASTRUCTURE: WHAT
THE BUDGET DIDN’T SHOW Townsville undergoes its largest defence estate and infrastructure transformation in decades
The new program empowering regional girls through hands-on STEM experiences and mentorship
UNLOCKING CULTURAL PATHWAYS TO EMPLOYMENT
The local organisation bridging the gap between Indigenous youth and workplace training
Solidifying Townsville as a global leader in marine research
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ON THE COVER
Craig Humphrey, Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS)
Photography by Sonia Warrell, Hello Muse Photography
EDITOR
Julie Johnston
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Townsville is set to elevate its status as a global leader in marine science with the expansion of the AIMS National Sea Simulator (SeaSim). This advancement will attract local, national, and international partners to collaborate on tackling shared challenges, as you’ll read about in our cover story.
Building on this theme of innovation and collaboration, we turned our spotlight to local high school teacher Sarah Chapman, who has taken a year off from her teaching role to launch STEM Changemakers, a program designed to encourage regional girls to consider careers in STEM. It was a privilege to be invited by Sarah to present an “Understanding the Media” workshop to the students as part of the program, where I got to witness first-hand how valuable mentoring and community connections are to these young women. Go-getters like Sarah and pilot programs like STEM Changemakers deserve support from businesses and stakeholders to ensure they can continue to make a positive impact within our region and beyond.
Regular readers of BDmag will also notice we have redesigned the layout of this Editor’s Letter page to create a dedicated space to showcase a local notfor-profit organisation. This issue we’re very proud to support Althea Projects, who are celebrating 50 years of supporting the Townsville community. If you’ve ever considered becoming a foster carer or you’re a business looking for a truly local organisation to support, get in touch with Paula and her team for more information.
We hope you enjoy this issue and be sure to get in touch if you know of more great stories happening in our region.
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In regional economies like Townsville, North Queensland, a quiet revolution is unfolding. Innovation, often subtle yet impactful, drives economic growth and prepares small businesses for the future. This revolution isn't about billion-dollar unicorns but about Small to Medium Enterprises (SMEs) making significant strides by innovating to meet new markets and challenges.
Many SMEs don't recognise their actions as innovation. These businesses implement small yet impactful changes like optimising supply chains, adopting new technologies or customer engagement channels. These incremental innovations are crucial for sustaining competitive advantage and long-term growth.
Embracing the mindset that innovation doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive is vital. It's not just about groundbreaking inventions or new products and services but also about continually adapting and improving processes and systems. For SMEs, this involves fostering a culture of continuous improvement and resilience, which is essential for thriving in today's business environment, particularly given the vulnerability of regional SMEs to climate change, economic fluctuations, and other challenges. Recognising and nurturing these everyday innovations can unlock hidden potential and drive economic growth.
" Fostering innovation in regional areas is essential for a balanced and thriving economy. That's why Smart Precinct NQ exists—to support the commercial pathways of innovative ideas from everyday people in our community," says CEO Cassandra Cazzulino.
When local businesses innovate, they become more resilient and competitive, not just locally but on a national and global scale. Currently, Smart Precinct NQ (SPNQ) supports hundreds of businesses to become future-ready by implementing various levels of innovation.
From ideas to impact, SPNQ supports start-ups, small businesses and industry by introducing critical resources, meaningful networking, expert mentorship and access to a deeply connected ecosystem of SMEs, government, industry, educational and financial institutions, and problem-solvers.
"Our Queensland Circular Economy IndustryResearch project, in partnership with the Department of Environment, Science and Innovation, is a perfect example. Supporting the development of eight innovative ideas and many more businesses, through quality partnerships and connections across various industries with the potential to impact sectors like agriculture, energy, and waste management," explains Cassandra.
Innovation is vital for the adaptability and sustainability of businesses across the region. It doesn’t need a global impact to yield profound local outcomes. Many businesses start by redefining processes to improve efficiency, reduce costs, or develop unique products and services. After integrating into the ecosystem, many gain the confidence to support other initiatives and share their experiences to support other regional businesses. This community sharing unlocks hidden potential and develops local solutions with possible future impact.
If you have an idea, are ready to make a positive impact, or have a challenge to solve, connect with SPNQ. Visit our website, www.spnq.org , to learn more about our programs and services designed to support your business’s future-proofing journey.
“We are thrilled to have achieved ECO Destination Certification and are looking forward to seeing how tourism and hospitality businesses across Townsville go the extra mile to showcase our city well into the future.”
Ecotourism Australia Head of Destinations and Member Services Alyssa Sanders says it was great to travel to Townsville in April to officially hand over the city’s certification.
Townsville has achieved a major international milestone by receiving ECO Destination Certification at the Nature Tourism level with Ecotourism Australia.
Townsville is the third destination in Queensland to become an ECO Destination, solidifying the city’s reputation as a leader in sustainable ecotourism and placing it in a network of more than 200 certified international destinations.
The ECO Destination Certification application was led by Townsville City Council with collaboration from key stakeholders including Townsville Enterprise Limited, Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service and the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority.
Councillor Ann-Maree Greaney said she was proud to see the region achieve ECO Destination recognition from Ecotourism Australia.
“Council is incredibly proud to have worked with Ecotourism Australia, Townsville Enterprise and our other key stakeholders to secure ECO Destination Certification for our city,” Cr Greaney says.
“As a Council we are continuously working to enhance our existing tourism offerings and creating new landmark tourism destinations, capitalising on our city’s position between the rainforest, wetlands, and the Great Barrier Reef.
“Being adjacent to such remarkable environmentally and culturally significant natural wonders, it is important for, and indeed a responsibility of, the local tourism industry and all who visit and reside in Townsville to adhere to strong sustainability principles,” Ms Sanders says.
“Townsville’s ECO Destination Certification not only inspires tourism businesses to implement responsible practices and achieve formal recognition, it also helps communicate expectations to tourists, and enhances visitor and community engagement with local sustainability initiatives.”
Townsville City Council was a recipient of the Queensland Government Department of Tourism and Sport’s Eco-Certified Tourism Destination Grant in 2022 to expand their destination sustainability certification.
Member for Townsville Scott Stewart says this certification helped bring even more eyes to the great tourism experiences in the region like Magnetic Island.
“The Queensland Government is working to position Queensland and our tourism destinations as leaders in sustainable tourism.
“ It is great to see Townsville has achieved ECO Destination Certification under the program which provided up to $150,000 to eligible applicants to achieve certification.
“In line with Towards Tourism 2032 this program will help our tourism destinations meet a growing demand from tourists for the places they visit to prioritise low impact travel, a high-quality naturebased experiences and an ongoing commitment to sustainability.”
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By Georgie Desailly
Townsville is set to further elevate its status as a global leader of marine science with the expansion of the National Sea Simulator (SeaSim), one of the world’s most advanced research aquariums, and a flagship of the Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS).
Since its inception in 2013 through a $37 million investment from the Education Investment Fund, SeaSim has been a cornerstone of marine research in Australia and played a key role in positioning Townsville as a hub for marine innovation.
As a leading research facility, it has offered unparalleled capabilities for studying coral health and bleaching, marine ecosystem responses to climate change, and reef restoration strategies.
Now, bolstered by a $36 million investment from the National Collaborative Research Infrastructure Strategy (NCRIS) through the Department of Education, SeaSim is undergoing a crucial expansion.
The two-phase development features a newly completed 1,300-square-metre outdoor area, resembling a large greenhouse, and the ongoing conversion of 500-square-metres of indoor space into experimental areas, scheduled for completion later this year.
According to AIMS’ National SeaSim Director Craig Humphrey, this nearly doubling of the facility’s size for new laboratories and research tanks will enable the team to simulate a broader range of environmental conditions and provide critical data to inform global conservation efforts.
“ In the first eight years of SeaSim operation, we worked at full capacity,” says Craig, who has been with AIMS for over 25 years and led the SeaSim prototype.
“One of the challenges we face in marine research is the rapid change in environments and ecosystems due to climate change, and new approaches to reef research are going to be required.
“With the current expansion of SeaSim, it enables us to pursue new directions and types of research that we previously hadn’t been able to.
AIMS’ National SeaSim Director, Craig Humphrey Image credit: Hello Muse Photography
“The first system in the new space, focused on coral spawning, is expected to launch by the end of the year, and our seawater processing facility, which is integral to our operations, will be finalised in the second half of this year.”
The current SeaSim team consists of around 20 staff members, however, this number is set to more than double, with an additional 30 positions expected to be created to support the operations of the new space.
Researchers and educational institutions worldwide are also set to benefit, with new funding being rolled out to ensure more equitable access to the SeaSim. This will enhance Australia’s reputation as one of the world leaders in marine science attracting local, national and international partners to collaborate together to tackle shared global challenges.
“We will now be offering merit-based access to national and international researchers to help cover the costs associated with using the facility for their research,” says Craig.
“Previously, they were required to fund their own research within the SeaSim, so we hope there will be an increase in international and national researchers who come and use the facility because of this.
“This is not just of benefit for the SeaSim; it’s also about fostering collaboration among international and national researchers with the broader AIMS team, James Cook University, and other research and educational institutions in the region.”
Science
“This is critical for helping to formulate future scenarios from science that can inform management and policy decisions that strengthen ocean resilience to environmental change.”
The expanded facilities will accelerate crucial projects like the Reef Restoration and Adaptation Program, a collaborative effort by AIMS and key partners to fortify the resilience and adaptability of the Great Barrier Reef against climate change and other threats.
Craig highlights the urgency of these initiatives, noting the significant economic role of the reef, which supports over 66,000 jobs and contributes more than $6 billion annually to our economy.
“Following the construction phase, it is then the SeaSim’s job to create experimental systems to support new research, and our staff are currently in the prototyping stages for this,” adds Craig.
The SeaSim has national and international researchers contributing to cutting-edge research Image credit: Budd Photography
The leading research facility has offered unparalleled capabilities for studying coral health and bleaching, marine ecosystem responses to climate change, and reef restoration strategies
Image credit: Hello Muse Photography
Australia’s marine industry is a pivotal part of the national economy, annually contributing more than $80 billion. It’s now recognised as one of the most critical and rapidly expanding sectors in Australia, with AIMS playing a core role in sustaining and propelling this growth in the blue economy forward.
Professor Selina Stead, who took on the role of CEO of AIMS in February this year, acknowledged the transformative potential of projects like the SeaSim expansion in not only attracting top-tier talent but also positioning Townsville as a premier destination for hosting world-leading marine conferences.
Before joining AIMS, Professor Stead served as the President of the European Aquaculture Society for 12 years where she organised industry conferences and gained invaluable insight into the factors influencing the selection of specific locations.
“AIMS is a global leader in climate change research and ocean health, specialising in a number of areas such as coral adaptation, which already draws businesses, visitors and researchers to our city,” she remarked.
“ The expansion of the SeaSim fits into AIMS’ broader vision for expanding and developing our research capacities to ensure we can continue to impact policy and decisions regarding our climate and the future of our marine life to benefit people in Australia.
“Certainly, the presence of a facility like SeaSim alongside the high-quality research being undertaken at AIMS significantly enhances Townsville’s appeal for hosting prominent marine conferences, making it a more attractive destination for people to live and work in the area.”
Professor Stead highlights the opportunity to enhance the profile of Townsville through growing its transport links such as offering international flights to and from Townsville which she notes would help in securing high profile conferences.
With Townsville Airport indicating its plans to launch international flights by 2025, she is optimistic that this development will serve as a catalyst.
“Townsville has everything going for it; the beautiful people and stunning scenery make for an excellent quality of living,” she adds.
“If we can establish international flights to and from the city, it could be a game-changer in attracting science, technology and industry conferences that can help showcase what Australia has to offer.
“The SeaSim expansion highlights the vital role of cutting-edge research facilities in growing Townsville’s national and international standing and attracting talent, all of which not only advances high quality marine science but trickles down into the local economy.
“We must remember not to forget about this worldclass facility that is right on our doorstep.”
The expansion will nearly double the facility's size, adding new laboratories and research tanks
Image credit: Budd Photography
By Georgie Desailly
A North Queensland project designed to boost regional economies through innovative local and social procurement is set to grow, thanks to fresh funding from the Queensland Government.
Delivered in partnership with CQUniversity and a specialist procurement consultancy ArcBlue, the Q-SEED program focuses on establishing a socioeconomic framework that funnels local spending, social procurement and inclusive employment practices back into the community.
Piloted in Townsville last year, the program has now received further support from the latest round of Advance Queensland’s Regional Futures funding. This grant, alongside funding from The John Villiers Trust, will drive Phase 2 of Q-SEED’s place-based work to grow investment and jobs in Townsville.
CQUniversity Social Innovation Program Manager Steve Williams says the project will target job creation through smarter spending.
“Those jobs are especially needed for at-risk young people, and in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, where unemployment rates are well above the region’s average,” says Steve.
“Q-SEED is already working with people across North Queensland who want to address social issues in their community and providing them with strategic connections and processes to achieve that through their business operations.”
ArcBlue Director for Queensland and Northern Territory Elisabeth Lette describes the project as a “game-changer” for regional development, with Q-SEED to kick off Phase 2 with a series of events and workshops starting in July.
“If just five per cent of non-local spend by Townsville business, government and industry is shifted back into the local economy with local suppliers, more than 1,500 local jobs could be created,” says Elisabeth.
“The funding ensures Q-SEED can start creating procurement networks, events and training for the region to shift spending back into Townsville, and to create new jobs.”
Sam Scandlyn, Procurement and Contracts Manager at Port of Townsville, participated in the 2023 cohort and emphasises the vital role of Q-SEED in fostering regional investment and job growth.
“With a pipeline of future projects both at the Port and across the region gaining traction; innovative, local and social procurement practices are essential to ensure our communities reap the benefits from investment in our region,” says Sam.
“Since participating in Q-SEED, our procurement team has taken the opportunity to attend ‘meet the buyer’ and First Nations’ procurement events, to educate local businesses and suppliers as to our tender process and demystify doing business with the Port.”
Fellow 2023 Q-SEED participant and Business Development Manager at Mike Carney Toyota, Rebecca Gravelle notes the program’s crucial role in ‘closing the gap’ for employment opportunities and encourages other businesses and stakeholders to get involved.
“We are seeing many local business procurement opportunities go to Southeast Queensland and Southern State suppliers across multiple industries for product or work to be carried out in Townsville,” says Rebecca.
“As a local business, we work hard to provide opportunities to ‘close the gap’ of employment issues across a range of minority sectors. Supporting local truly means we can continue with these programs, assisting the community further.
“More businesses should consider getting involved in Q-SEED to explore what ‘closing the gap’ of employment could look like in their business and for our minority groups in our community.
“As a business community, we need to truly support one another and understand the strength in buying local across as many sectors as possible.”
The Queensland Government's recent approval of the Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2024 introduces key reforms aimed at enhancing transparency and fairness in the rental market. At Explore Property Munro & Co, we are excited to embrace these changes and the opportunities they present for our clients and the broader community.
The reforms include:
► Fair Rent Practices: No longer accepting offers from tenants to pay above the advertised rent or advance payments exceeding statutory limits.
► Rent Increase Regulations: Tying rent increases to the property with a mandatory 12-month interval, providing stability for tenants.
► Bond Restrictions: Capping bonds at four weeks' rent, ensuring predictable and manageable bond requirements.
► Extended Notice Periods: Increasing entry notice periods from 24 to 48 hours.
► Prompt Water Billing: Requiring landlords to pass water invoices to tenants within four weeks of receipt.
► Enhanced Confidentiality: Strengthening confidentiality provisions to protect tenants experiencing domestic and family violence.
At Explore Property Munro & Co, we are committed to leading the way in implementing these reforms. Our team has attended multiple training events to thoroughly understand the new regulations, and we actively implement training in-house to ensure we provide the best service to our clients.
We are particularly enthusiastic about these changes as they align with our commitment to transparency and fairness.
Explore Property Munro & Co continually strives to keep all our homemakers and homeowners up to date with these changes, ensuring they are well-informed and prepared for the new rental landscape.
These reforms will strengthen the relationships between landlords, tenants, and property managers, fostering a more cooperative and positive rental experience for all. We are here to assist you every step of the way, ensuring a smooth transition and continued excellence in service.
For any questions or further information about how these reforms may affect you, please contact our dedicated team. We are excited to help our clients navigate this new chapter in rental regulations.
By Kate Banville
Australian Special Forces Soldiers conduct fast rope training on board a US UH-60 Blackhawk Image credit: U.S. Department of Defense
Townsville’s defence estate and infrastructure is undergoing its largest transformation in decades, however much of it goes without mention in the latest Federal Budget. Here’s why.
By now the reposturing of the 3rd Brigade is well known as Townsville cements itself as Australia’s Army capital and specialists of armoured combat.
The transformative and expensive changes come as a result of the Defence Strategic Review which found land forces needed a restructure to focus on littoral manoeuvres, a type of warfighting which aims to get an advantage over the enemy through projection of land power from the sea to the land, and back.
Already Australia’s largest Army base, Lavarack Barracks is about to outposture all others with $19 million in upgrades to critical capability infrastructure.
Approximately $16 million has gone towards works at RAAF Base Townsville, including refurbishments to Hangar 75, which houses critical air capabilities.
And with Townsville’s rental vacancy straddling around 1 per cent, the issue of where to house an expected influx of more than 500 troops has been front and mind of political and community leaders.
Immediate concerns have been allayed following a recent announcement to build 500 new homes under Defence Housing Australia’s New Builds Volume Program, with an estimated $200 million worth of work in the construction industry in Townsville.
This includes about $80m to build 65 new live-in accommodation rooms on RAAF Base Townsville, as well as a significant transformation of DHA housing in Aitkenvale with hundreds of new house and land packages.
However, you won’t find any of this detail in the latest federal budget.
This is because Defence Housing Australia – while it is wholly owned by the Australian Government represented by two Shareholder Ministers, the Minister for Finance and the Minister for Veterans and Defence Personnel – as an agency it does not receive funding directly from the Federal Budget.
Instead, DHA has access to a government-provided debt facility and funds its operations through:
• The receipt of fees and charges from Defence for its services, and
• Generating revenue from:
• Selling and leasing back properties through its Property Investment Program
• The disposal of excess land and completed properties from its developments, and
• The disposal of properties that no longer meet minimum Defence standards or requirements.
As for the infrastructure works at Lavarack Barracks and RAAF Base Townsville, most of it was captured in commitments outlined in the 2024 Integrated Investment Program (IIP) which was released prior to the latest federal budget papers.
Mick Ferguson, Townsville City Council’s Defence Engagement Officer says the IIP and 2024 National Defence Strategy solidified opportunities for North Queensland businesses becoming a firm part of the defence ecosystem.
“It puts figures against what we already thought those opportunities were and so things become tangible because businesses can see pledges of money to actually make things happen,” he says.
“Once people see that money, business confidence increases, and people start to position their businesses to take a bit of risk and meet the opportunities.
“Doing supply chain mapping to consider what we can provide to Defence locally that helps them do their job and project from the north, or train in the north.
“There is now a real opportunity for local businesses to benefit beyond the obvious of simply having more people here propping up the economy.”
Townsville City Council was the first local government to introduce a defence strategy, and now with many of its ‘High Payoff Target opportunities’ realised, Mick says focus has turned to seeking out new mutually beneficial opportunities for Defence and the region.
Mick points to the relocation of Army’s new AH-64E Apache helicopters to Townsville from 2025, Army Aviation’s Brigade Headquarters, and port upgrades among the big wins achieved.
In this latest budget release for the 2024-2025 time frame, the government has set aside AU$16.7 billion for equipment acquisitions in the coming fiscal year, plus another AU$17.2 billion to sustain existing assets.
Army has been promised AU$11.8 billion for its Boxer armoured vehicles, Redback infantry fighting vehicles, Huntsman self-propelled howitzers, High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems, M1A2 Abrams tanks, National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile Systems, and UH-60M Black Hawk and AH-64E Apache helicopters.
“ Now we’ve seen the National Defence Strategy there’s more clarity and we can already see additional opportunities for the region,” Mick says.
“And it’s important to have other North Queensland advocacy agencies like Townsville Enterprise involved so this is a collaborative effort of selling our region.
“This isn't about putting our hands out to the government or defence to ask for something but to actually say we’ve got some really good ideas on how we can help you do what you need to.”
Jennifer Parker, an expert associate at the Australian National University, warned that despite promised increases in defence spending, workforce issues and “a significant gap in ADF capability for the next 1015 years” remain cause for concern.
Defence currently has a workforce shortage just shy of 5,000 personnel, with the Army copping the brunt of those.
“The workforce issues are, in my view, completely structural,” she said. “There are issues with defence recruitment but it's not clear why, so that does need to be looked at.”
When it came to budget allocation, Jennifer says defence spending is never an even service split, nor should it be.
“Domains are not equally important in the defence of Australia,” she says.
“Now that's not to devalue any specific service, but we are an island nation, so obviously the maritime domain and the air domain will be more prominent in investment than the land domain.
“There is a need to recapitalise the Navy because our ships and submarines have gotten so old and nobody made the decision.
“So yes, there is more of an emphasis on the maritime domain because of our new strategy, but also we've just reached this point in history where we need to start replacing our ships and submarines. It’s a cyclical thing.”
Recognised as a global strategy to grow tourism and enhance destination competitiveness – among many other community benefits – major events act as catalysts for development across business, social, culture and environment, but a city’s event readiness is largely the deciding factor when pursuing major events. If the last few years are anything to go by, Townsville– as the events capital of Northern Australia – is proven and ready for more!
Townsville has long been the quiet achiever in hosting an events calendar that engages and excites locals and visitors of all ages and interests. Long-term traditions of much-loved community and civic events, set side-by-side with the growing annual calendar of national and international scale major events showcase the region, its culture, its liveability, and is a strong measure of community pride.
In 2023, Townsville Enterprise delivered an extensive community and visitor survey which demonstrated significant engagement and clear appetite for bigger and greater variety of major events – with over 90% of Townsville residents surveyed attending a major event in the last two years.
Townsville Enterprise CEO Claudia Brumme-Smith says the evolution of Townsville as an events city has become a key differentiator against competitor destinations – not only from a tourism point of view, but as an attractive place to do business, invest and live.
continue to build our profile as Australia’s most liveable regional city.
“As the capital of events in Northern Australia, Townsville is primed to grow our events strategy with one of the biggest events calendars the region has ever seen in 2024 and has captured the attention of promoters across the country.”
Queensland Country Bank Stadium General Manager Tom Kimball says events have become a unique selling point for the city, backed by the economic value the venue brings to the community each year.
“Last financial year alone, the Stadium has grown patronage – thanks to major events – by 41%* which has contributed over $71.5 million in economic value to the North Queensland community,” says Tom.
“Events are powerful catalysts for social connection, bringing diverse individuals together and fostering a sense of community and belonging.”
“Advocating and securing Townsville’s new $290 million stadium in 2016 was a testament to the passion of our events-driven community and proudly stands as a symbol of our city’s growth and evolution, now driving significant returns for our region,” says Claudia.
“The Stadium has been the turning point in Townsville’s ability to attract, host and deliver major events – redefining and reinvigorating not just our CBD, but North Queensland more broadly, as we
“Looking to the future, the city’s status as the events capital of Northern Australia is only expected to grow, and we’re really proud to have Queensland Country Bank Stadium play a part in that.”
While the focus for major events has certainly put the Stadium in prime position, festivals, and community grown events are also being swept along in the events momentum.
NQ Licenced Events owner Regan Anderson says the city has caught the attention of events of all sizes.
“Growing awareness as an events city has always been the challenge, but we’ve certainly turned a corner and the future is bright for Townsville as an events destination of choice.”
➜ Australian Festival of Chamber Music – one of the longest running major events in Townsville, the AFCM began in 1991 and continues to attract global audiences having built an international reputation for its distinguished Australian and overseas-based artists and innovative programming across a range of chamber music styles.
➜ Professional Bull Riders (PBR) Australia – for over 23 years cowboys and their bovine beasts have taken charge in Townsville, now host to the Australian Grand Finals title, bringing the world’s best riders and bulls for some of the biggest moments in Australian western sports history.
➜ Supercars Townsville 500 – from an initial $10 million Federal Government election commitment in 2007, to the $29.58 million dollar Reid Park Street Circuit complex we know today, Supercars Townsville 500 has become a mainstay on Townsville’s events calendar. The event has grown from strength to strength and now attracts over 127,000 motorsport enthusiasts annually.
➜ Magnetic Island Race Week – joining the northern sailing regatta register in 2007, the annual sellout sailing event attracts seafarers from across the country and is a major drawcard especially for interstate competitors looking to race and relax on Magnetic Island.
➜ North Australia Festival of Arts – born out of arts funding from the 2018 Commonwealth Games Event City selection, NAFA – then Festival 2018 – highlighted the need for an annual arts and cultural festival for the northern region and has grown to become the region’s pinnacle fringe arts and performance event.
➜ World Triathlon Multisport World Championships Townsville – in what will be Townsville’s largest ever sporting spectacle, ‘Race the Reef’ will attract over 4,500 competitors representing over 50 countries, as they descend on the region for the 12-day event. For the first time, the event will be held in Australia, putting Townsville squarely in the international spotlight.
➜ P!nk Summer Carnival – contributing over $50 million to the community, the halo impact from this event has driven the biggest returns, with event promoters now approaching Townsville as a preferred venue and event destination.
As a member of the Townsville Enterprise community, you will be contributing to the economic growth of our region AND tap into our professional network to build strategic relationships, increase your brand profile and marketing reach, be a part of our advocacy as an industry leader.
Join us today!
With thanks to our 320+ members
– Equality Education
Tell us about yourself and your business. I launched Equality Education with a mission to bridge the gap between employers who were struggling to find skilled workers and individuals who were unemployed due to lack of job opportunities. Drawing on my experience in the training industry, I realised that both sides of the employment crisis needed a chance to succeed. I recognised that job seekers just needed an opportunity to showcase their abilities, but I also understood employers’ apprehensions, so I sought ways to ease their concerns. This led me to explore the various government incentives available for the hiring and training of staff in the hospitality sector.
My passion for helping the unemployed and underprivileged community led me to Townsville, where I worked on multiple initiatives to provide certified training courses to individuals from North Queensland. In 2023, I established Equality Education, a platform where I could share my expertise in training and life experiences to deliver the best outcomes for businesses and students who want to gain qualifications.
What has been the most challenging aspect of being a business owner?
The most challenging aspect of getting Equality Education up and running was encouraging large businesses in Townsville to support a locally owned and operated training company. It has also simply been a challenge building a business from the ground up without any investors.
What is a fun fact about yourself?
My nickname is Arty, and I love to party (though I haven't done much of it until my business succeeds). I believe in working hard and partying hard—responsibly, of course. I tend to chat to my two dogs when I get home from a long day.
What is the best piece of business advice you ever received?
Never give up, never, never, never. If someone says no, keep persisting and believe in yourself and that good people succeed in the end.
Going forward, what is next on the cards for you or your business?
I have just started a charity called I’m Here which will help low socio-economic families and people struggling to overcome barriers to get employment, and I am keen to see it grow over the coming months.
– Dal Santo’s Continental Deli
Tell us about yourself and your business. Dal Santo’s Continental Deli opened its doors 25 years ago and has continued to grow and evolve to become an iconic and beloved café and delicatessen in the Burdekin. I recently purchased the thriving business, doing a complete 180 in my career. Before this, I had been a director of various companies, taught at JCU and was honoured to be a Councillor in the Burdekin Shire last term. Needless to say, since taking over, life is moving at a much faster rate!
What has been the most challenging aspect of being a business owner?
Taking a leap into hospitality and a business that is so well established with no experience in the industry has come with challenges. There is a whole lot of learning that needs to take place just to keep the day-to-day operational – and that’s before we start looking at short and long-term future planning!
I am incredibly fortunate to have staff I can count on and who seem okay with my never-ending list of questions!
What is a fun fact about yourself?
I have maintained my academic fellowship at the Centre for International Business and Trade in Asia and have recently had a paper accepted by the Academy of Management into the annual conference being held in Chicago this year.
What is the best piece of business advice you ever received?
I don’t think there is any one piece of advice I've ever received but multiple. 1) You aren’t going to like everything you have to do, but you have to do it anyway. 2) Don’t ever accept criticism from people you wouldn’t go to for advice. 3) Do you. There is no one else in the world like you; there is a reason you are here; find your purpose and share your gift with intention. If you dream big and work hard anything is possible!
Going forward, what is next on the cards for your business?
Learning the day-to-day while implementing systems and continuing to meet or exceed our customer's expectations is my top priority. More people are enjoying catching up with friends and family over a cup of coffee and good food in our newly expanded indoor dining area.
Following that, launching some new product lines and an online shop is on the horizon. The future possibilities are endless!
– Sweeter than Sugar and Hello Picnic
Tell us about yourself and your business.
I have always been the kind of person who loves to bring joy and happiness to people’s lives, and I’d like to think that’s exactly what I do every day by sharing my cupcakes and cookies. I started Sweeter than Sugar over 14 years ago when I was planning my daughter’s first birthday and saw a gap in the market for cupcakes. I saw this as a perfect opportunity to fill the gap, whilst having an outlet for my creative side to flourish. I’ve always enjoyed being creative, making things and making people happy, and cupcakes were the perfect vehicle to combine both.
Tell us about yourself and your business.
After nearly 12 years in the RAAF, we were ready for a new chapter in our lives. We absolutely loved our careers in the Air Force, but we were searching for the perfect place and opportunity to settle down as a family. That’s when we found Mary Who? Bookshop, and it felt like everything just clicked into place.
We have just started a new venture providing luxury boutique picnics and dining events this past Easter, called Hello Picnic. When I saw the business for sale I thought, “Hey, picnics make people smile and I love to make people smile, let’s do it!” So, I asked my husband and he said, “Yes, why not? Who needs sleep?!” Already my creative side and attention to detail has allowed me a new outlet to bring even more joy to people, which has complemented Sweeter than Sugar better than I could have hoped for.
What has been the most challenging aspect of being a business owner?
My most challenging aspect of being a business owner is that I can’t say no, as I love to bring joy to people. I am your classic people pleaser. In being driven to please, I feel my work-life balance is neglected, but it is something that I am learning to take control of.
What is a fun fact about yourself?
We recently returned from an amazing trip to Vegas where we eloped in the Nevada Desert.
What is the best piece of business advice you ever received?
My father always said work hard and the rewards will follow. He ran his own business that was successful for many years, and I think he passed that on to me with not only his advice, but the work ethic I saw from him.
Going forward, what is next on the cards for your business?
Going forward, I want to expand Hello Picnic into more special occasions for the people of Townsville, all while continuing to spread joy with the delicious treats of Sweeter than Sugar.
For us, Mary Who? is more than a business – it’s a way to become part of the Townsville community. We love that the bookshop offers us a chance to get involved as a family and connect with people. Taking over Mary Who? feels like the perfect way to continue its legacy and make our own mark in this wonderful city.
What has been the most challenging aspect of being a business owner?
Being business owners is still so new for us, so honestly, it feels like EVERYTHING is challenging! But we couldn’t be more grateful for the incredible support from the previous owners, Sue and Kerry, our loyal customers, and our truly incredible staff member, Tenille (who is Mary Who? royalty, having been a part of the business for over 17 years).
What is a fun fact about yourself?
Zac: I'm a CrossFit fanatic and am passionate about health and fitness. I've been hooked on the sport for years and now coach at CrossFit 4810.
Katie: I'm a true Townsville local. I was born and raised here and after traveling around Australia with the RAAF, I always knew I wanted to come back and settle down here.
What is the best piece of business advice you ever received?
If we had to pick just one piece of advice, it would be something along the lines of "Stay true to yourself”. It sounds simple, but when you're diving into the world of business ownership, especially with a local gem like Mary Who? Bookshop, it's easy to get swept up in all the advice and opinions flying our way.
Going forward, what is next on the cards for your business?
We are committed to continuing the warm and welcoming atmosphere that Sue and Kerry have lovingly built over the years. At the same time, we’re excited to infuse some fresh, Solari-Family vibes into the shop!
ETS Geotechnical (ETS Geo) has established itself as a formidable player in the geotechnical investigations and testing industry, renowned for its personalised service, knowledgeable engineers, and extensive experience across diverse terrains.
With its head office based in Cairns, ETS Geo has recently expanded its operations with a new facility in Townsville, managed by the seasoned Don Byers. This expansion marks a significant milestone in the company's mission to provide exceptional geotechnical solutions across North Queensland.
“The new Townsville facility is a testament to our commitment to meeting the growing demands of our clients in the region. Don brings invaluable expertise to our team, ensuring that we continue to deliver top-notch services,” says Michael Ganza, Director and driving force behind ETS Geo.
The company's core services include comprehensive geotechnical investigations, sub-surface exploration, and construction material testing. ETS Geo's capabilities extend to geotechnical drilling, which is crucial for assessing soil and rock properties to inform construction projects. This drilling capability, combined with the company's commitment to accuracy and efficiency, sets ETS Geo apart from its competitors.
“We pride ourselves on our ability to handle complex projects, whether in urban settings or remote locations,” Michael notes. “Our team is equipped with the latest technology and expertise to provide reliable data and solutions, ensuring the success of our clients' projects.”
In addition to its robust geotechnical services, ETS Geo's sister company, Australian Ground Engineering (AGE Qld), offers specialised design and construction services.
AGE Qld's portfolio includes retaining walls, soil nails, soil anchors, micro piles, rock dowels, rock fall mesh, catch fences, and catch drains. These services are essential for stabilising slopes, protecting infrastructure, and mitigating geological hazards.
“The integration of AGE Qld's services with ETS Geo's investigative capabilities allows us to provide
comprehensive solutions from investigation to construction,” Michael explains. “This synergy enhances our ability to deliver cost-effective and timely results for our clients.”
The expansion into Townsville and the collaboration with AGE Qld underscores ETS Geo's dedication to growth and innovation. By leveraging local knowledge and advanced techniques, the company continues to build a reputation for excellence in the geotechnical field.
As ETS Geo looks to the future, the focus remains on expanding its reach and enhancing service offerings. “Our goal is to inspire others in the industry by setting high standards for quality and customer satisfaction,” Michael concludes. “We are excited about the opportunities ahead and are committed to making a positive impact in the communities we serve.”
With a steadfast commitment to excellence and a clear vision for the future, ETS Geotechnical is poised to lead the way in geotechnical investigations and testing, ensuring safe and successful construction projects across North Queensland.
The creation and appetite for green jobs is on the rise – presenting Townsville as a strong contender for professionals and skilled workers across the country looking to redefine success and prioritise worklife balance, while maintaining a desirable lifestyle complimented by a stunning natural environment.
For many regions, offering meaningful, purposeful careers and the utopian ‘balanced’ lifestyle is a challenge, but recent research has placed Townsville as a top destination for regional relocators.
As the thirteenth largest city in Australia, and by far the largest population base in Northern Australia, the Townsville region has one of the most diverse economies in regional Australia. Widely recognised as the commercial hub of Northern Australia, it is currently at the forefront of an enviable green manufacturing runway to achieve the nation’s net zero targets. Over the next five years, the region will deliver over $14.1 billion in committed projects, over 50% of which are defined as green industry projects.
North Queensland’s total project pipeline valued at $34 billion.*
Equates to 4,975 ongoing jobs, and 17,342 construction jobs.
Top five largest economy in regional Queensland, contributing $21 billion in GRP/annum.
Townsville is one of only nine cities in Australia certified as an Eco Destination.
With the city’s long sustainability journey recognised now by Eco-Destination certification, Townsville’s focus on emerging industries such as renewable energy and green manufacturing has meant that green projects make up more than half the pipeline’s value. This has strengthened the region’s profile not only as a sustainable investment destination, but also a future-proofed community by relocators looking to make a long-term move.
Over the next five years, the project pipeline will create a demand for over 22,000 new skilled workers. Understanding the latest in Australian sentiment, perceived barriers and opportunities for relocators will be key to the region’s success.
Recent research conducted by Townsville Enterprise found that regional relocations for metro-city residents has never been more appealing, with one in five metro residents considering a move to regional Australia, and over 81% of Australians more focused on achieving simplicity and resisting the pressure of ‘hustle culture’.
Image credit: Townsville Enterprise Limited
What is a ‘green job’? Occupations that contribute to promoting sustainability and combating climate change.
Townsville Enterprise CEO Claudia Brumme-Smith says the city’s offer is appealing to metro-city relocators looking for balance.
“Townsville is a place that offers the best of both worlds, where world-class innovation and nature coexist, and over 93% of regional relocators through the survey agreed the region had strong appeal as a place to live and work,” says Claudia.
“ With over 77% of potential relocators considering a move in the next three years yet undecided about their final location, and 56% considering relocating to a larger coastal centre, Townsville is in the pole position as the preferred liveable city of choice.
“Right now, the critical focus needs to be on raising awareness nationally for our great city. Together, we need to elevate community pride and hero our major events, tourism offers, and industry good news stories, accompanied with a strategically targeted and funded liveability campaign aimed at southern markets to ensure the advantages of Townsville are clearly understood.”
Natural Beauty: Easy access and appreciation for the natural environments that surrounds Townsville and how this contributes to an enhanced quality of life.
Relaxed Lifestyle: Opportunities for relaxation, outdoor activities, and the general vibe that feels like a perpetual holiday. An enjoyable and fulfilling way of life. Simple lifestyle creates balance.
Community: Sense of belonging, friendliness, and community spirit they anticipate finding in Townsville. Another marker of a relaxed and easy-going lifestyle.
Affordability: The economic advantages of living in Townsville – in particular, lower cost of housing.
Climate: Warm climate and sunny days are a draw for many – referencing the climates positive impact on outdoor activities and health as key reasons for considering a move.
The Right Size: Strikes a balance between urban conveniences and community atmosphere.
*Captures projects valued at $10 million or more, includes all stages of project lifecycle along the North and North West corridor [Townsville – Mount Isa].
Townsville Chamber of Commerce CEO Heidi Turner shares her concerns for small to medium sized businesses in our region.
“The number of businesses appointing administrators has surged over the past 12 months, hitting a record high of 1,131 in March. The first time since 2015 that insolvencies in Australia have risen above 1,000 per month, a 26% increase on the same time last year,” explains Heidi.
“During our April meeting with the Reserve Bank, insolvency data highlighted that construction and businesses that rely on discretionary spending, such as hospitality and the arts, are the hardest hit. Are these sectors the canary in the coal mine? With decreased discretionary spending and increased costs across the board, business operators are caught in an increasingly challenging environment.
“The stress and strain faced by SMEs was acknowledged in the Federal budget with investments in mental health and financial counselling, plus a $325 energy rebate. However, many of our members have highlighted that this rebate does not even cover the weekly increase in power costs experienced since 2023, an increase of around 30%.
“ The escalating costs of materials, wages, insurance, and energy are substantial hurdles for businesses in our region. The majority of businesses don't want handouts; they just want to operate in a competitively fair environment.
“The ongoing market failure in insurance across Northern Australia, coupled with double taxation in Queensland (GST + stamp duty), is deeply concerning. Resolving these issues is crucial for our region to reduce the cost of living, increase liveability, and unlock its full potential to thrive economically.
In January, our Federal Budget Submission focusing on reducing insurance costs gained the support of 19 Chambers across Northern Australia, WA, NT, and QLD. We will continue to advocate for the removal of tax on this essential service.
“It's not all doom and gloom. As a region, we are in an enviable position with a diverse mix of industries and potential. Just last month, the KPMG Enterprising Cities Report listed Townsville as one of 12 of Australia’s fastest-growing cities.
“At Chamber we have a supportive community of businesses from start-ups to multi nationals and we provide ways for members to connect, remain informed and learn ways to improve business practices. We also advocate for business in our region as the only independent voice of business for over 143 years.
“As always, I encourage you to buy local as much as you can and keep your dollars circulating in our local economy. Together, we can weather these challenges and emerge stronger.”
To find out more about the Townsville Chamber of Commerce scan the QR code below.
By Georgie Desailly
A new pilot program aimed at connecting young girls from underrepresented backgrounds with local STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) industries is making significant strides under the guidance of a dedicated local educator.
Sarah Chapman, a Townsville State High School teacher and 2013 recipient of the Prime Minister’s Award for Excellence in Science Teaching is the driving force behind STEM Changemakers – a pioneering two-month program that offers handson experiences and mentorship in STEM careers.
“As a teacher with 20 years of secondary state school experience, I’ve seen countless talented girls in STEM who lacked support at home or faced too many other life demands,” says Sarah, who is also the Co-Chair of Women in STEMM Australia.
“Some members also discouraged girls from a STEM pathway as it seems too hard or doesn’t lead to a secure job.
“That’s why six months ago I decided to be the change I wanted to see in the world and take a year off work to devote my time to changing opportunities for regional girls in STEM; that is where STEM Changemakers was developed.”
It’s no secret that Australia faces a significant shortage in STEM workforce capacity and critical capabilities. While 80% of the fastest-growing occupations require STEM skills, only 15% of STEMqualified jobs in the country are held by women.
As Sarah points out, this disparity is even more pronounced for those in regional areas who lag 1.5 years behind their metropolitan counterparts in STEM education.
“Girls from regional Australia are the least likely to choose STEM professions,” says Sarah.
“STEM labels can often be a barrier in the form of the stereotypes that come to mind.
“STEM Changemakers provides girls with tangible experiences supported by role models to transform girls’ aspirations. It enables them to see a positive future for themselves on a STEM pathway, which is critical.”
A central focus of STEM Changemakers is its collaboration with local stakeholders and businesses, which connects the students with regional STEM experts through Engagement Days and Be What You See Panels.
These initiatives highlight the industries’ contributions to their communities while offering students the opportunity to solve real-world, community-based problems.
" We want to show girls the positive impact these experts make, focusing on their contributions rather than just their titles, which is the purpose of these panels,” says Sarah.
“The girls in the STEM Changemakers program walk away with a reinforced confidence in themselves. They have strengthened communication and networking skills and are able to collaborate with a range of stakeholders in the community.
“Local STEM industries presented a range of authentic local problems to the girls. These real problems enable the girls to explore a range of STEM industries, design thinking skills and influence industry decisions.”
Wilmar Sugar Australia was one such local organisation that presented a real-world industry challenge to the students, which involved finding ways to reduce carbon dioxide emissions when transporting sugarcane to factories.
Nina West, Manager of Design Engineering at Wilmar Sugar Australia, says this challenge not only gave the girls a practical problem to solve but also highlighted the relevance of STEM in addressing global issues.
“There have been amazing ideas resulting from the girls’ brainstorming phase, some of which we might not have considered without them, and that is exactly what we were hoping for,” says Nina.
“They’ve been really forthcoming with ideas, which shows they feel respected by both Sarah and the other industry representatives.
“No matter which career paths these girls end up choosing, the opportunities this program has offered will undoubtedly benefit them in the future and may
lead to opportunities they might otherwise not have had.”
The program culminated with a presentation to industry professionals in June, combining all the networking and communication skills developed across the eight weeks.
Grade eight Ayr State High School student Jorja Ahern notes how the program has expanded her understanding of the diverse career opportunities available.
“This program has opened up opportunities for my future studies and career path because it has helped me understand the different types of engineering and what I could achieve as an engineer,” says Jorja.
“From this program, I have learned about the different engineering types, and I have found an interest in electrical engineering and environmental engineering.”
Fellow student Tiana Cameron agrees and says it has helped her get a glimpse into the problems a STEM career can contribute to solving.
“The program has opened up opportunities by giving us ideas, because at the end of the day, someone can be given all the opportunities and advantages in the world, but still not get there because of the unwillingness to try,” says the grade 10 student.
“Changemakers has brought me from a girl interested in science to a girl interested in a career in science, and I think that’s the biggest takeaway.”
Sarah has no intention of slowing down. Her future plans for the program include developing targeted workshops for girls across regional Queensland, as well as creating coaching programs for primary STEM teachers to support engagement in these areas.
She is encouraging industry stakeholders to reach out and help support the championing of regional STEM professionals.
“ I want to review, improve and offer more engineering-focused STEM Changemaker programs, followed by other targeted STEM programs showcasing regional and rural STEM industries and their impacts, especially in areas like environmental sustainability,” says Sarah.
“Long-term, I am aiming to work with regional industry to provide targeted skills training that is flexible and responsible for young people’s needs, rapid technological change and industry demand to ensure Australia’s STEM skills workforce can be more dynamic and responsive to change and allow our young people to be the leaders in solving future STEM challenges.”
Bravus Mining and Resources celebrated the Townsville talent behind its national ‘Heroes of Mine’ advertising campaign with a gala event at the Rockpool Pavilion. Supporting the North Queensland Toyota Cowboys’ 2024 NRL season, the campaign was brought to life by local trio Robbie Bolton and Dale Arthur from 537 Media and Ashley Caldwell from Caldwell Media, along with renowned photographer Cameron Laird.
Image credits: Shae K Photography
More than 250 community leaders and business and healthcare representatives from across North Queensland came together in May for the second annual Future Townsville forum – an opportunity to shine a spotlight on the healthcare sector and identify how Townsville can continue to lead the way as a healthcare super hub of Northern Australia. The event was hosted in partnership between News Corp, Mater and the Townsville Hospital and Health Service.
Image credits: Cathy Friel Photography
570 people came together to help support Ronald McDonald House Charities’ mission of keeping families close and making a difference to the lives of ill or injured children and their families, at the 2024 RMHC North Australia Charity Gala. Presented by Jaguar Land Rover Townsville, guests were entertained with performances by the 1RAR Band and special guest, Kate Ceberano.
Image credits: Photography by Scott
The North Queensland Green Energy Futures Forum, held in May at the Ville Resort-Casino, brought leaders and investors from industry, research and government to share their thoughts and visions on the evolution of the green energy industry. Townsville Enterprise CEO Claudia Brumme-Smith, Windlab’s Chief Development Officer Nathan Blundell and Special Envoy for the Great Barrier Reef Senator Nita Green spoke at the event, with the goal to help shape and develop a cooperative approach to tackle the challenges and harness the opportunities ahead in North Queensland.
Image credits: Townsville Enterprise Limited
By Kaitlyn De Lai
A local organisation is bridging the gap between Indigenous youth and workplace training by providing secondary students with the opportunities needed to thrive in the workforce.
Managed by the Cowboys Community Foundation, NRL Cowboys House serves as a culturally safe home away from home for Indigenous students from some of Australia’s most remote and geographically disadvantaged communities.
In addition to overcoming distance as a barrier to access a quality secondary education, the House also offers comprehensive education and transition support through high school, including work experience and real-world employment preparation, ensuring students are ready to excel in their careers upon graduation.
Cowboys Community Foundation Chief Executive Officer Fiona Pelling highlights the transformative impact the House has on its 100 young residents, who leave home and come to Townsville to access education parity through a choice of 13 quality secondary schools who partner with the House.
“We are committed to breaking down geographic barriers and ensuring these students have the same education, training and employment opportunities as their urban or regional peers,” Fiona says.
“Our mission is to empower these young people with the skills and confidence to achieve their goals.
“Our dedicated teams work closely with each student to understand and develop their strengths and career aspirations, supporting them from year 7 through to year 12 and beyond, whether that’s employment or further training here in Townsville or back in their home communities,” she adds.
Statistically, Australia’s Indigenous population is underrepresented in employment data, with these statistics worsening in more remote areas where limited employment opportunities exist.
Fiona emphasises the importance of role models in empowering young people.
“ NRL Cowboys House has a strong focus on leadership development – we see our students as future leaders both within the House and in their wider communities,” she says.
“We nurture their leadership skills so they can become trailblazers in their workplaces and as role models back home.”
Each year, NRL Cowboys House averages between fifteen to eighteen year 12 graduates, many are now employed in various jobs, traineeships, and apprenticeships around Townsville, or attending further education pathways with TAFE or university.
One of those graduates is Isaiah Kepa from the Torres Strait, who began his apprenticeship with Tropic Roofing and Plumbing at the end of 2023, something he says he wouldn’t have achieved without the House’s support.
“Cowboys House was awesome, we had lots of help,” says Isaiah. "I was looking for work, they organised it and set up the interview. They helped with my resume and white card.”
Isaiah says he plans to work in Townsville for a few years to gain further trade experience but is eager to take those skills back home to contribute to his community.
With current skill shortages across various industries, Tropic Roofing and Plumbing owner Michael Mahoney says finding an apprentice was made easy when he came in contact with NRL Cowboys House.
“At the end of the day, Isaiah is job-ready – he’s ready to go,” Michael says.
“He’s had a bit of experience with our side in plumbing, it makes it easier that he knows what he’s in for. Under tradesman supervision, Isaiah’s doing jobs on his own – he’s changing tapware, he’s doing flood pressure tests, he’s fixing toilets on his own, and just growing as a person.”
NRL Cowboys House also offers a post year 12 transition program to ensure students have ongoing support after high school graduation.
“Often, they’ll graduate, complete an apprenticeship or a qualification, and either stay or move on to work elsewhere, but we continue to support them through that journey,” Fiona says.
“We often have their younger family members at the House still completing their secondary schooling so being able to maintain that family connection is very important.”
Fiona says the importance of maintaining students’ connection with their culture and community, both at the House and in the workforce is critical.
“We invite our corporate partners to all House events where they get to know our students and more about where they come from,” she says.
“Most of our partners are really interested in what they can learn from our students so they can create the right employment environment supporting the needs of young people and all that they bring.
“This interaction empowers our students to confidently share their ideas and their culture with others.”
She says there are multiple ways for local businesses to get involved to support the Cowboys Community Foundation and its programs such as NRL Cowboys House.
“We offer a corporate volunteer experience at North Queensland Cowboys games, where businesses can help sell raffle tickets or choose Cowboys Community Foundation as their charity for fundraisers,” she says.
“We also encourage local businesses to offer work experience or apprenticeship pathways to our students, as they have the power to make a significant impact.”
