Outback coaches honoured for service to the game

The Queensland Outback teams represent a large section of the state, from Mt Isa in the north to St George and Roma in the south, and everywhere in between.

For these players it is the highlight of their footy careers to be selected in these prestigious squads.

The juniors - under 14s boys and girls, under 16s boys and under 17s girls - play in the Rees Orman Cultural Exchange in Coolum each year while the senior men and women’s teams play in various locations, including recent trips to Thursday Island, Roma, Tully, and the Sunshine Coast.

While this is an absolute thrill for these players, many volunteers put their hands up to be part of the coaching team and to guide these players, young and old.

These people take up to a week off work to travel with the teams and nothing is too much trouble for them in ensuring all the players' needs are met.

This year as well - thanks to Sarah Walker and Amy Bock from the Central NRL team - the Outback coaches were provided with education sessions by some of the best in the game, including Jillaroos mentor Brad Donald, former NRL coach Neil Henry, Shane Morris and Anthony Wood from the Redcliffe Dolphins, and Brad Henderson from the Sunshine Coast Falcons.

All Outback coaches attended and benefited from the experience, taking what they learned back to their local players.

And with the help of Chris Waters - the David Middleton of Queensland Outback footy - the Queensland Rugby League were able to look back and obtain the names of every Outback coach, dating back to the first team in 2004, overseen by Queensland Maroons great Jason Hetherington.

In recognition of their work, each coach has now been honoured with their representative number, which has been embroidered on an exclusive commemorative Outback Cap.

For any coaches who see their name on the list and have not yet received their cap, please contact Peter Rafter on 0430 303 643 or via email.