Outback opportunities not just for players

Author: Colleen Edwards
Timestamp: Tue 18 Jan 2022, 12:45 PM

The Queensland Rugby League Outback program provides players with a fantastic opportunity to experience the very best of the game.

Players and staff involved in the Open Men’s, junior boys and junior girls – and now the Open Women’s - teams have the chance to take part in representative fixtures, meet new people and advance their skills.

The Outback junior teams play annually at the Glynn Rees / Geoff Orman Cultural Exchange Carnival at Coolum on the Sunshine Coast. Teams play for enjoyment and to soak in a new experience both on the off the field, which last year included learning how to surf.

During last year's representative fixture, the Queensland Outback Open Men’s team went down against opponents North Queensland United in an entertaining game and will again be coached by Wayne 'Cabbage' Collie, with the team in need of an assistant coach, team manager and sports trainer to join him for the 2022 campaign.

North Queensland United v Queensland Outback Women's

The inaugural Queensland Outback Women’s team played their first match under the guidance of FOG #119 John Buttigieg and were victorious, recording a strong 20-8 win against their opposition.

Former Queensland Women’s representative player Nikki Richards was assistant coach and this year will step up into the head coaching role with Buttigieg remaining on staff as assistant coach.

The women’s team is seeking a team manager and a sports trainer to come on board as part of the support staff.

After a successful staging in Tully last year, this year’s fixtures are set to be played in Roma on Sunday, July 24, 2022.