Chairman`s Report

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D av i d C r o m b i e
Chairman’s Report
mission
statement
To lead and support the
growth and success of
Queensland Rugby.
2003 Performance
SEASON HIGHLIGHTS
• 470,000 spectators watch Rugby World matches in Queensland
• Record Super 12 crowds at Ballymore - three matches sold out
• Reds finish 8th in Super 12 and retain Templeton Cup
• Canberra Vikings win third successive Hospital’s Cup
• Strong player growth in non-traditional schools
• Six new junior clubs established
• New Ballymore administration building approved
KEY PARTICIPATION STATISTICS
1999 (Estimates only)
2000
2001
Junior Clubs
60
60
75
74
80
Senior Clubs
99
98
98
111
112
5,815
7,420
8,775
10,228
10,285
13,620
13,749
15,228
18,530
20,489
Junior club players
Regular School players
Senior club players
TOTAL PLAYERS
2002
2003
7,286
7,317
7,676
8,954
8,369
26,820
28,486
31,679
37,712
39,143
1999
2000
2001
2002
2003
FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE
Sponsorship
2,592,619
3,277,548
3,114,257
3,228,393
3,944,738
Match Day Income
3,332,916
3,152,176
3,655,746
3,778,106
4,331,331
1,174,772
3,745,597
2,056,660
1,991,854
Nil
11,319,637
13,115,893
13,918,297
15,340,259
17,362,957
236,981
(298,776)
149,864
79,769
182,802
10,067,461
13,439,022
20,838,163
22,559,786
22,742,588
State Government
Grants - Ballymore
Gross Trading income
Net Trading Profit/(Loss)
Members’ Equity
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vision
for
2005
Queensland Rugby is
highly regarded within the
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professional, progressive
CEO’s Report
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organisation that is
Sponsors
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Board of Directors
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Finance Report
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Chairman’s Report
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community as a
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A Vision for 2005
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sporting and business
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innovation and leadership.
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There is a strong ‘unity of
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Commercial Report 10
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recognised for its
Community Rugby Department 14
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purpose’ with the ARU
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Communications 13
and other State Unions
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yet a healthy respect and
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competitiveness among
Statistics 18
all bodies.
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Honour Board 20
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Queensland Rugby is
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Qld Academy of Sport Under 19s 24
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Energex Reds Rugby College 22
characterised by a culture
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Premier Rugby
2003 Statistics 25
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Queensland Suburban Rugby 33
of high standards,
integrity, respect and team
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Club Reports 26
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Queensland Junior Rugby Union 44
work and passionately
‘proud to be a
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Qld Rugby Football Schools Union 42
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Queensland Country Rugby Union 34
QRU Club Report 46
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Queenslander’.
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David Bond / Ron Park Obituary 47
Financials
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Contents
Team Photo 17
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Reds
Summary 16
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D av i d C r o m b i e
Chairman’s Report
Queensland Rugby approaches the 2004
season with an extraordinary opportunity.
The Rugby World Cup this year delivered
exceptional crowds in both Brisbane and
Townsville and saturation media coverage,
elevating interest in the game in
Queensland to an unprecedented level.
More than 470,000 people attended the
nine matches in Brisbane and three in
Townsville, with 92 percent of the available
tickets sold. This response was beyond all
expectations.
The Queensland Schoolboys enjoyed
commendable success, securing the
Australian Championship at Anglican
Church Grammar School in Brisbane with a
39-33 victory over New South Wales. Their
triumph led to a strong representation in
the Australian Schoolboys team, with nine
Queenslanders making the 23 man squad
which took on New Zealand Schools at
Ballymore.
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The challenge of the next 12 months will be
to convert the new followers of the game
into active, long-term supporters, growing
our spectator, playing and volunteer bases.
was run parallel to the Super 12. This
provided a series of quality matches that
provided important experience for young
members of the Reds squad and Energex
Reds Rugby College players. While some
clubs expressed disappointment that this
further detracted from the Welsby Cup
competition, the initiative was considered
vital to the development of our elite player
base.
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2003 IN REVIEW
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The Bank of Queensland Reds season was
below expectations. Under head coach
Andrew Slack the team committed to
playing open attacking rugby, but struggled
for wins, particularly early in the season.
Starting with a narrow loss to the ACT
Brumbies, the Reds lost their first four
Super 12 matches. A magnificent victory
over New South Wales in Sydney turned
the season around, and the team went on
to win four of their next six matches.
However, the Reds still managed to finish
only eighth, below the target set down in
the strategic plan.
The Queensland Country Heelers again
performed creditably, making the final of
the Australian Rugby Shield against Perth.
The Heelers semi-final victory over the
New South Wales Cockatoos was a tribute
to the coaching of Peter Bromely and his
young team.
The Queensland Academy of Sport Under
19s won two of their four matches in the
Trans-Tasman Trophy, but a comprehensive
loss to New South Wales at Ballymore was
a disappointing end to their campaign.
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HEAD COACH/CEO
An extended Queensland A programme
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Their departure continues a considerable
loss of experienced and talented players in
recent years. In the past three seasons
nine players who have played 100 games
for the Reds have retired or taken up
overseas offers. This high turnover of
senior players will test our coaching and
development programmes in 2004 and
beyond.
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The Reds this year farewell Toutai Kefu and
Daniel Herbert. Both players captained
Queensland with distinction and played
more than 100 matches for the Reds. Both
are playing out their careers overseas and I
wish them well for the future. I also wish
Matt Cockbain and Glenn Panoho (retired)
the best for their futures and thank them
for their enormous contributions to
Queensalnd Rugby.
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Andrew Slack’s resignation at the end of
the Reds season was regrettable, because
in his short time as head coach he enjoyed
enormous respect from the players, the
staff, and the broader rugby community.
His decision came at a time when the Reds
were trying to finalise their contracted
squad for 2004. It was apparent that
without a head coach in place, the
recruitment and retention programme was
seriously jeopardised.
The decision to appoint Jeff Miller ensured
we had a coach of the highest calibre in
place quickly, ensuring continuity and
certainty for the squad. His experience as
assistant coach to the 1999 World Cup
winning Wallabies will be invaluable as the
team continues its rebuilding process. Jeff
has already brought to the role the same
relentless enthusiasm and dedication that
won him the respect of both teammates
and rivals during his playing career.
A thorough recruitment process to find a
replacement Chief Executive culminated in
the appointment of Theo Psaros in October.
Theo has been with Queensland Rugby
since 1998 as Finance Manager and
Commercial Manager and is experienced
across all areas of the game’s
administration. His business acumen and
strong leadership will ensure the
organisation continues to grow strongly.
PREMIER RUGBY
The Canberra Vikings grand final win over
the Gold Breakers secured them the
Hospital’s Cup for the third successive
season. The Vikings will rejoin the Sydney
competition in 2004 and I thank them for
their considerable contribution to the
standard of Premier Rugby for the past
three years.
Premier Rugby will return to a two round
format for 2004, with a greater weighting
of competition points available in the
second round. The aim is to lengthen the
premiership competition but place greater
emphasis on the period of the season
when contracted Reds players are available
for club rugby.
Queensland Rugby
consulted widely with the clubs to arrive at
this decision and will continue this
consultation as we fine tune the
competition format for 2004.
The Australian Rugby Union is now
committed to the establishment of a new
competition between club and Super 12
rugby for 2005, in time for the renegotiation
of the News Limited broadcast agreement.
At present there is no firm agreement on
the format such a competition may take.
Queensland Rugby will participate in an
ARU working group to examine the range
of options.
SUNCORP STADIUM
In June this year the board advised
delegates that it was considering moving
the Bank of Queensland Reds v New South
Wales Waratahs match in 2004 to Suncorp
Stadium. The extraordinary success of
World Cup matches played at that stadium
is clear evidence that the Queensland
rugby public has heartily embraced the
facility. Three of the Reds five Ballymore
homes sold out in 2003, further underlining
the need to consider the bigger venue.
Negotiations on the move are continuing,
based on four key principles.
• There will be a substantial financial
upside for Queensland Rugby
• Ballymore remains
Queensland Rugby
the
home
of
chaired by vice president Tom McVeigh to
review the constitution and recommend
potential change. The aim is to ensure the
constitution continues to allow the
organisation to operate in line with current
best practice and deliver the goals laid out
in its strategic plan.
The current
constitution has served the organisation
well but the changing landscape of
Australian sport means a review is timely.
The committee has sought input from a
range of stakeholders and hopes to have
proposed changes ready for circulation
early in 2004.
Among changes under consideration are
• That relocation is seen as a springboard
for the growth of the code
• Bringing the constitution in line with
current corporations law
The board is proceeding with negotiations
and is grateful for the support provided by
Bank of Queensland.
• Change to the voting structure, including
the removal of the voting rights of board
members at council
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• Strong stakeholder support for the move
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I look forward to 2004 confident that we
are well placed to make the most of the
opportunities that are before us.
David Crombie
Chairman
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The board has appointed a committee
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CONSTITUTIONAL REVIEW
Be n Tu n e
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The new office building is the first step in
our long term plans for Ballymore. Work is
underway on plans for a high performance
unit which would be used by the Australian
Rugby Union and visiting international
teams. The board sees the HPU as an ideal
use for this great asset, providing more
regular use and potential new income
streams.
Finally, I want to thank all staff members
and congratulate them on their outstanding
contribution in a demanding year. Several
staff were seconded by the ARU to work
on Rugby World Cup, which is a tribute to
their skills and commitment. The entire
administration has worked enthusiastically
in delivering an excellent year for
Queensland Rugby.
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The board thanks the State Government’s
Department of Sport and Recreation for a
$770,000 grant toward the construction of
this exciting project.
CONCLUSION
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The new facility will provide greater
efficiency and effectiveness across all
aspects of the business.
Significant discussion of these proposals
will be required in the lead up to next year’s
mid-year general meeting.
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Construction will commence early in the
2004 on a new $2 million administration
facility at Ballymore, with a view to leaving
the current Bowen Hills premises next
September. The organisation has outgrown
the rented facility, and there are clear
benefits in bringing the organisation under
one roof at Ballymore.
Nathan Sharpe
BALLYMORE
• Replacing committees of the Union with
sub-committees of the board
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I am extremely honoured to have been
appointed Chief Executive of Queensland
Rugby and I offer my sincere thanks to my
predecessor, Jeff Miller.
2003 has seen a softening in the overall
growth of player numbers in Queensland.
Player numbers have grown from 38,000
in 2002 to approximately 40,000 in 2003.
This report largely reflects Jeff’s efforts
and Queensland Rugby is not only grateful
for his dedication, but fortunate that a
coach of his calibre can take on the
leadership of the Bank of Queensland
Reds. When Jeff joined Queensland
Rugby as CEO in 2002, he brought a new
level of professionalism and direction that
has laid the foundation for the continued
success of this organisation.
This represents a slowing of the
phenomenal growth 2001 and 2002 due
largely to many clubs no longer having the
capacity to take on more players. There is
an increasing problem of a lack of playing
fields to meet the demand, particularly in
the junior ranks. The Community Rugby
Department is working with the QJRU to
establish new clubs, in both metropolitan
and country areas to meet the demand.
School players have increased by
approximately 11%. This is a pleasing
result and is due to the combination of
utilising the existing infrastructure within
the school system and the targeting of
non-traditional schools by Queensland
Rugby’s Community Rugby department
and state-wide Development Officers.
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In 2002, Queensland Rugby implemented
its strategic vision and the basis of this
report will be to highlight the progress of
achievement of the plan’s goals.
The Premier Rugby competition again
provided a level of competition that
allowed club players an opportunity to
compete with and against Super 12
contracted players. The Canberra Vikings
again set a standard for our clubs. Sadly
they will be missing from the 2004
competition following their decision to
compete in Sydney Premier Rugby.
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The performance of the Reds in 2003 was
inconsistent and below the team’s own
high expectations. Jeff Miller now faces
the challenge of rebuilding the Reds as a
potent Super 12 contender.
The
retirement of several experienced players
means that 2004 will test the depth of the
squad and the ability of our up and coming
players. Team management is working on
an innovative style of play designed to
deliver winning rugby that is also attractive
to watch.
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The management team has been
bolstered by the employment of 1999
World Cup winning trainer Steve Nance
and he is working with Damian Mednis to
ensure the Reds are the fittest and
strongest team in the Super 12.
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The 2004 Bank of Queensland Reds will
be the youngest we have fielded in the
Super 12. However many of these players
have benefited this year from the
Queensland A programme, and the
Energex Reds Rugby College. As part of
the strategic plan the Reds continue to
invest in local talent but this has needed
to be supplemented by the recruitment of
props Angus Scott (ACT Brumbies) and
Rodney Blake (Sydney) and the return of
Van Humphries to Queensland.
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The contracting of eight Reds College
players to the Reds in 2003 was
testimony to the success of its programs.
Similarly the Reds College played a major
role in the management of the
Queensland Under 16 and Schoolboy
teams. The success of these teams also
highlighted the effectiveness of the Reds
Rugby College.
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Country Rugby continues to grow. The
combined resources of the Energex Reds
Rugby College and the Community Rugby
department will see the establishment of
regional academies in Rockhampton,
Sunshine Coast, Darling Downs and
Townsville. This initiative will create an
opportunity for regionally based players to
participate in the Reds Rugby College
programs without the need for relocation.
2003 was highly successful from a
commercial perspective. Three out of five
Super 12 matches at Ballymore were sold
out, delivering increased gate revenue.
The demand for Rugby World Cup
ticketing benefits and the continued
growth in interest for the code saw all
reserved seating sold out for the entire
season. The challenge will be to maintain
the 2003 levels in the absence the ‘carrot’
that the Rugby World Cup provided.
Sponsorship has again grown as a result
of the new arrangements with the Bank of
Queensland and Castlemaine Perkins.
Queensland Rugby has successfully
beaten a softening in the sponsorship
market, with the naming rights to Premier
Th e o P s a r o s
Chief Executive
Officer’s Report
Rugby the only unsold property in 2003.
With the continued corporate interest in
Rugby, new and increased sponsorship
arrangements are being sought in 2004.
The commercial report will highlight the
increased
activity
in
licencing
arrangements. No longer is our only
source of licencing royalties from the sale
of authentic apparel. Queensland Rugby
is expecting to acheive increased revenue
from royalties generated by other levels of
apparel, merchandise and credit card
sales through the newly launched Bank of
Queensland Reds Visa Credit Card.
2004 – The Challenges
The Queensland Rugby Board has
resolved to transfer the Reds v Waratahs
match to Suncorp Stadium in 2004
subject to hiring conditions that are
commercially
beneficial.
The
unprecedented ticket sales for Rugby
World Cup and the acceptance of the new
stadium by the Queensland sporting
public, provides Queensland Rugby with
an exceptional opportunity to grow our
match day audience and deliver increased
revenue for the funding of Rugby. The
negotiation process continues and
direction is expected prior to the end of
the year. It should be noted that the Bank
of Queensland has been extremely
supportive of the relocation of this match
and hopefully, a Super 12 final.
Queensland Rugby is indebted to Bank of
Queensland’s Managing Director David
Liddy and his team for their support of this
initiative.
At the same time as discussions are
underway on the possibility of relocating a
match to Suncorp Stadium, the Board has
also resolved that additional usage of
Ballymore be sought and a feasibility
study is underway to investigate the
establishment of a elite training facility.
The feasibility study will determine the
ARU’s interest in relocating its High
Performance Unit to Brisbane and
investigate the potential to attract
international rugby teams to train and
further their rugby development at
Ballymore. The construction of the QRU
administration building at Ballymore is the
first stage of the development of this
facility.
It is envisaged that this facility may cost
up to $3 million and preliminary
discussions have been held to seek State
Government financial support.
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During the time I have been with
Queensland Rugby, several attempts have
been made to introduce a third tier of
competition behind the Wallabies and
Super 12 to offer an opportunity for both
club and contracted players. Queensland
Rugby has been the driver of this initiative
as seen with the formation of combined
teams that toured New Zealand in 1998
and the end of season competition in
1999. The ARU is now promoting the
introduction of a national competition for
2005. This initiative is being scoped to
allow Australian Rugby to negotiate on
equal terms with New Zealand and South
Africa in the broadcast arrangements from
2006. Queensland Rugby will participate
in a working party that the ARU is
establishing in early 2004. The challenge
will be to balance the aspirations of all the broadcaster, the ARU, the players and
clubs within the Member Unions.
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Ju l i e n H u x l ey
Finally, I thank the Board for its support
and direction in 2003. Our long term
strategy has been set and the Board is to
be congratulated for keeping this plan on
track. I would also like to thank the
management and staff of the QRU for
their dedication and support in 2003. Their
passion for the sport is unparalleled and
our stakeholders should be proud of their
effort and desire to grow rugby at all levels
in Queensland.
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2004 will be a defining year in Australian
Rugby. Following the success of the
World Cup, Rugby has the oportunity to
grow its player and support base and
Queensland Rugby is ready to meet this
challenge. As foreshadowed at last year’s
Annual
General
Meeting,
the
administration has undergone some
growth in the past 12 months. It is now
well placed to deliver continued revenue
growth directly into the game’s
infrastructure.
I look forward to
continuing a strong working relationship
with the Australian Rugby Union to ensure
Queensland benefits fully from the legacy
of Rugby World Cup. However we remain
alert to any ARU eagerness to implement
nationally controlled programmes which
should be delivered by the appropriate
state unions. There is no doubt that
Queensland Rugby is the organisation
best placed to implement ARU’s desired
outcomes for community Rugby.
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Sponsors
PRINCIPAL NAMING RIGHTS
Bank of Queensland
ELITE SPONSORS
Castlemaine Perkins
Canterbury International
MAJOR SPONSORS
Bartercard
Mazda
Seven Network- QLD
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Ricoh
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Energex
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Radio Triple M
Wesfarmers Landmark
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Coca Cola
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Qantas/ Qantas Link
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Vodafone
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SPONSOR
Bundaberg Rum
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The Courier Mail/ Sunday Mail
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MHS Recruitment and Consulting
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Griffith University
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Falken Tyres
Sheraton Hotel
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Clayton Utz
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Trendwest
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Yellow Cabs
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James Gilbert Footballs
Beiersdorf
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Adrenalin Sports’ Bar and PJ O’Briens
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Harvest Seedless Watermelons
Radio 4BC
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Macair
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Stanbroke Pastoral
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Bentley’s MRI
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Keith Prowse Travel
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Silver Fern Australia
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4 n 20 pies
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Qld Sport and Pharmacy Supplies
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QUT
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Musashi
Nifsan
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Sony Australia
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PREFERRED SUPPLIERS
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Board of Directors
B a ck R ow : Ro b i n T h o m s o n , B e n Ke h o e , Ro s s W i l l i a m s , Pe t e r M o o r e , M e ga n S n a p e ( C o m p a ny Se c r e t a r y )
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Fro n t R ow : T h e o P s a r o s , Pa u l M c L e a n , D a v i d C r o m b i e , D a v i d U s a s z
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D i ck M a r k s
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Jo h n Ro e
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D av i d U s a s z
Finance Report
Queensland Rugby reported a profit of
$182,802 which is an excellent result for
the 2003 year. While we had changes to
our coaching staff and CEO the overall
financial stewardship was excellent and
my thanks must go to our finance
manager Megan Snape and her team in
strong fiscal leadership.
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The Rugby world Cup provided an
incentive for the renewal of season tickets
which, in turn, provided a strong revenue
stream early in the financial year. Sales
were well up on 2002, and Ballymore
crowds in general provided higher than
expected income. Significant increases in
sponsorship funding further contributed
to the outcome.
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In contrast to the 2002 balance sheet, this
year’s figures do not include any funds for
2004 corporate and season ticket sales.
Last year sales occurred early enough to
be included in the 2002 ledger, due to the
marketing campaign for the Rugby World
cup.
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This affects the balance sheet in the
following ways:
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• a considerable decrease in debtors.
Unlike the previous year, no 2004
season corporate facilities have been
billed at this year end
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• a substantial decrease in payables.
Unlike the previous year, there is no
deferred income related to sales of
2004 season tickets and corporate
facilities
perpetual ground members and Reds
pass holders.
Any benefits that may accrue from the
Rugby World Cup will be included in 2004
results. At this stage these benefits are
expected to be allocated to reducing
commercial bills and/or limiting the
borrowings required for the construction
of the new administration facility at
Ballymore.
Many of our staff were seconded to assist
in the delivery of the World Cup and we
thank those who remained in our QRU
business.
While construction has not started on our
Ballymore offices we are pleased to report
that our Queensland Government grant
request was successful and we shall
receive $770K during the FY04. Our
administrative and professional rugby staff
shall finally have the same home at
Ballymore in FY04.
Redevelopment work at Ballymore in the
past year led to a significant increase in
depreciation expense. The 2003 financial
year profit of $182,802 including the
following highlights:
• new
sponsors
and
commercial income
increased
• substantial increase in sponsorship
serving costs due to the renewal of the
Bank of Queensland, Castlemaine
XXXX and Canterbury sponsorships.
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• a temporary increase in the amount
owing on interest bearing liabilities,
due to funds not yet being received for
the 2004 season sales
David Usasz
Treasurer
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• and as a result a temporary increase of
working capital.
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This year’s figures incorporate the
activities of the Energex Regs Rugby
College which previously operated as a
separate entity. This is reflected in the
increase in revenue and expenditure.
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While some of the Rugby World Cup has
been played in our financial year 03 (FY03)
we have not included any compensation
for loss of matches from Ballymore. We
have incurred some costs in paying for
seats at the Suncorp Stadium for our
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Opposite page:
2003 Queensland Rugby Union Staff on
the site of the new Ballymore
Administration Building
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Commercial Report
The chart below illustrates the comparison between the crowd figures for Reds
opposition in the five match Super 12 programme.
The 2003 season is notable for record
attendance levels at Ballymore with three
out of five matches attracting sell-out
crowds and four out of five attracting
record attendances at Vodafone Super 12
matches.
20000
15000
1997
1999
10000
2001
2003
5000
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Br
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Teams
The chart highlights the following:
• Four of the Super 12 matches were record crowds
• Three of the five matches were sell outs
• The Highlanders team is consistently the best attended New Zealand franchise
• There has been a 30% increase in the crowd attendance for the Hurricanes match
since 1997
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The significant growth in Super 12
attendances and the three out of five sellout crowds again highlights the
limitations of the capacity at Ballymore.
In the wake of the Rugby World Cup
Super 12 is capable of attracting
attendances well in excess of 25,000 for
many matches. With the likes of the
Auckland
Blues,
the
Canterbury
Crusaders and the NSW Waratahs as
opponents in Brisbane in 2004, the
Ballymore capacity of 23,000 will restrict
the opportunity for many of the rugby
community to see the Bank of
Queensland Reds live.
25000
Attendance
The average crowd figure of 18,699
people per Super 12 match was also a
record and the aggregate attendance for
the season of 131,102 is the highest for
an eight match Bank of Queensland Reds
match season.
5 Match Super 12 Programme – 1997-2003
Sh
ar
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BALLYMORE ATTENDANCES
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SPONSORSHIP
The chart below illustrates the comparison between the average crowd figures for
Reds opposition in the five match Super 12 programme.
2
0
0
2003 was significant for the re-signing of
two of Queensland Rugby’s ‘biggest’ and
long-term sponsors the Bank of
Queensland and Castlemaine Perkins.
5 Match Super 12 Programme – Average Crowds 1997-2003
d
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n
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a
n
The same can be said for Castlemaine
Perkins
who
officially
became
Queensland Rugby’s longest serving
sponsor with a seven year arrangement
that extends until 2007, culminating in 25
years of involvement with the code in
Queensland.
Queensland Rugby is
delighted with the long-term involvement
of these two companies.
10
20000
18000
16000
Attendance
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Bank of Queensland entered into a three
year arrangement and retained the
principal naming rights of the Queensland
Reds team. This extends the association
as naming rights sponsor to nine mutually
beneficial and positive years with
Queensland Rugby and 20 years in total.
This makes this association one of the
most enduring sports sponsorships in
Australia.
14000
12000
10000
8000
1997
1999
2001
2003
6000
4000
2000
0
1997
1999
2001
Years
The chart highlights the following:
• The best ever crowd average was recorded in 2003
• 25% increase in crowd average since 1999
2003
Wesfarmers Landmark became the
naming rights sponsor of the Queensland
Country Heelers team for the first time.
With the Wesfarmers Landmark Country
Heelers team making the final of the
Australian Rugby Shield competition this
proved to be a strong association for both
parties in 2003. Queensland Rugby also
thanks Macair for their contribution to
Country Rugby this year.
The Bank developed a separate marketing
plan for the launch of the Reds Visa Card,
heavily leveraging a Rugby World Cup
sweepstakes in conjunction with Visa.
t
r
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o
Castlemaine Perkins also produced a
Reds 30 Can pack and, in total, sold
160,000 packs (or 1.8 million litres of
beer). This offered outstanding brand
presence and association for both XXXX
Bitter and the Bank of Queensland Reds
throughout Queensland.
e
The Reds Visa Card not only promotes
both brands, its sales success also
delivers
commission
income
for
Queensland Rugby.
Castlemaine Perkins produced an
outstanding XXXX Bitter Reds television
commercial that aired throughout the
Vodafone Super 12 Season. The
commercial supported the 24 Pack XXXX
Ultimate Entertainment Pack promotion
and the on-premise promotional activity.
u
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2
0
0
3
a
This year at Ballymore we acknowledged
Queensland Legends of Sport as part of
the “Show Your True Colours” marketing
campaign involving Vicki Wilson, Pat
Rafter, Steve Bradbury, Allan Langer,
Grant Hackett, Ian Healy, Geoff Huegill,
Nikki Hudson and Karla Gilbert.
All of these personalities were
interviewed by The Courier-Mail/ Sunday
Mail leading sports writer Mike Colman at
the sponsors pre-match function in the
Murrayfield Room and were presented to
the Ballymore crowd prior to kick off in the
main game.
y
Additionally the Bank of Queensland
established the Bank of Queensland Staff
Volunteer programme, with approximately
35 Bank of Queensland volunteers giving
their time to help out at the Reds home
matches. Without doubt, the presence of
Bank of Queensland people added to the
friendly atmosphere of Ballymore.
QUEENSLAND RUGBY – LEGENDS
OF SPORT
b
Volunteer
r
Queensland Rugby undertook many
marketing activities in 2003 including the
following highlights with the Bank of
Queensland.
Bank
of
Queensland
Programme
g
PROMOTIONS
As at the date of this report, more than
1,600 new Reds Visa Cards had been
issued.
u
Overall 2003 sponsorship income grew
22% compared to the 2002 season. The
QRU’s Commercial team and our
sponsorship agent IMG must be
congratulated on this result. However,
with this increased revenue came a
significant increase in sponsorship
servicing costs.
a
l
Canterbury International came off
contract at the end of the 2003 season
and has re-signed for a further three
seasons. This ensures the Reds will
continue to be the best outfitted team in
the Super 12 competition.
Bank of Queensland launched the muchanticipated Bank of Queensland Reds Visa
Card - the only co-branded sporting card in
the Queensland market.
r
Queensland Rugby was very pleased to
welcome Sony Australia, The Harvest
Company, Adrenalin Sports Bar/ PJ
O’Briens, Griffith University and Musashi
as new sponsors in 2003. These sponsors
added substantially to the value of
Queensland Rugby’s business and the
QRU is delighted with these associations.
n
d
QUEENSLAND RUGBY EVENTS
a
l
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Castlemaine Perkins
u
Bank of Queensland Reds Visa Card
Commemorating the famous four past
Rugby World Cup winning captains and
attended by over 850 people at the
q
To u t a i Ke f u
Queensland Rugby maintained its
reputation for delivering highly successful
events in 2003 and had the added bonus
of being associated with the outstanding
Rugby World Cup Four Captains’ function.
11
Commercial Report
Brisbane and Exhibition Centre, this
function was positioned the week of the
RWC quarter final matches played in
Brisbane.
In August, Queensland Rugby hosted an
official ARU off-site hospitality event for
the Wallabies v Springbok Test at the
Sheraton Hotel. While not attracting the
number of guests originally planned, the
event was very successful.
product (jerseys, polo shirts, t-shirts and
caps) carrying the Cotton Oxford label and
a discount department store range of
cheaper Reds merchandise supplied by
Cooper Sports. This will mean a greater
variety of Reds product, cheaper price
points and availability in more outlets.
Overall revenue from licensing has
increased from $95,000 in 2002 to
$280,000 in 2003. However, $90,000 of
this increase related to the previous year’s
international jersey sales.
The Reds Membership programme will
result in our season ticket holders being
classified differently in 2004 and receive a
greater variety of benefits (based on their
ticketing level).
Part of the ongoing process will be the
research of Reds Members to determine
life style interests outside of rugby. This
will assist in establishing ‘valuable’
strategic business partners for the
programme that will offer benefits
‘exclusively’ to Reds Members.
LICENSING
e
p
o
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t
The number of licensees who produce
and sell Reds merchandise increased
from one to nine in 2003. This is in part
due to a new arrangement with Australian
Rugby and the universal acceptance of
the new Reds logo.
a
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Queensland Rugby reached agreement
with Sirromet wines to become its
preferred supplier of wines and will make
special offers to Reds Members in 2004.
a
n
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Other products that carry a Reds license
include supporter flags, sunglasses, foldup chairs, beanies and scarves, footballs,
pins, key rings, stubby coolers, ties and
plush toys featuring the Rusty the Reds
Koala mascot.
N i ck S t i l e s a n d Ta i M c i s a a c
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2
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3
A highlight of the licensing programme in
2004 will be an offer of Reds ‘second tier’
12
REDS MEMBERSHIP
PROGRAMME
Queensland Rugby has replaced the
Season Ticket Holder system with a new
Reds Membership programme for 2004.
This programme offers ‘members’ a
greater variety of benefits including new
Wallaby privileges and a junior Reds
membership. Also, for the first time in
2004, families (2 adults and 2 children) will
be offered designated ‘Reds Family
Membership’ which includes reserved
seating for the season in the Concourse,
Eastern Terrace and the Griffith University
Stand. Reds Supporters Memberships
will also be offered to ‘members’ based
regionally, interstate and internationally
that cannot make it to matches but still
wish to be formally associated with the
team.
2004
The year following a Rugby World Cup
presents enormous opportunities for all
aspects of our operations. Commercially,
Queensland Rugby has a challenge in
ensuring we retain the increased number
of members who joined us in 2003.
Certainly many of these members sought
RWC ticketing benefits. However, our aim
is to retain existing and introduce new
members to the Reds. The increased
interest in rugby is expected to introduce
new commercial partners and both
sponsors and licencees will be sought in
2004 in order to grow our financial
resources and continue to fund our
operations.
For the second year running, younger
members of the Reds squad underwent
formal media training, with a half day
course run by the Communications
Department with assistance from
Channel Seven’s David Fordham and The
Courier-Mail’s Jim Tucker.
t
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3
0
Average Peak
Viewers (Viewers)
0
Match
530,000 659,000
England v France
469,000 587,000
2
Aust v NZ
y
826,000
b
Australia v England 742,500
u
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Peter Kelly
Communications Manager
r
New technology was employed to drive
the membership programme. Season
ticket holders who were slow in
committing to 2004 were contacted by
telephone with recorded message from
Reds player Julian Huxley reminding them
of the renewal deadline.
Regular, direct communication is seen as
crucial to the overall success of the new
membership programme.
The Rugby World Cup produced record
television ratings for the South East
Queensland viewing area. The figures
below contrast with a peak audience of
around 500,000 for Wallaby Tri-Nation test
matches played in Australia.
d
A new electronic newsletter, ‘Reds Flash’
was established, and e-mailed to Reds
season ticket holders weekly throughout
the Super 12 season, and monthly for the
remainder of the year. The aim was to
promote the Reds matches and the full
range of Queensland Rugby’s activities,
providing an added benefit to our
‘members’.
Lack of free to air coverage of Super 12
continues to hamper the overall media
coverage for the sport, and this will be a
fundamental issue when the next
broadcast agreement is negotiated over
the next 24 months. This lack of coverage
has a ‘knock-on effect’, impacting on other
sections of the media’s willingness to
allocate time or space to our sport.
n
PUBLIC CONSULTATION
a
• ABC Radio adopted the Reds as “their”
team with weekly three minute reports
from inside camp.
A new website was established with
support from the Australian Rugby Union,
reflecting the new Reds branding, and
providing a simpler navigation structure.
The new-look site was updated daily, with
the bulk of the content produced inhouse. Arrangements were reached with
both The Courier-Mail and the Gold Coast
Bulletin to provide additional editorial
material.
Public meetings with the residents around
Ballymore were held throughout the year.
Regular consultation with this group has
been successful in creating good relations
where previously there has been a great
deal of conflict.
l
• Radio partnerships with Triple M and
4BC were continued and a number of
players conducted regular weekly
interviews with non-partner stations
612-4QR, 4TAB, 4KQ, and 4TO
(Townsville).
BROADCAST
NEW MEDIA
s
• Test cricketer Matthew Hayden was
appointed the Reds’ number one
supporter for 2003, a move designed to
attract further coverage and add to the
team’s appeal
Television Ratings for the ABC’s Saturday
afternoon
broadcast
were
below
expectations averaging 20,000 – 35,000
viewers in the south east corner of the
State.
In addition, the extraordinary crowds and
strong television ratings should mean
sections of the media can no longer
dismiss Rugby as “the third code”. The
challenge for 2004 will be to make the
most of Rugby’s new credibility among
key media decision-makers.
n
• Wendell Sailor was installed as a
weekly correspondent for Channel
Seven
The Rugby World Cup ensured
unprecedented media interest in Rugby.
Many journalists who have previously had
barely a passing interest in the sport
found
themselves
covering
the
tournament daily. One of the World Cup’s
legacies is that we now have many more
‘rugby aware’ journalists working the
Queensland media.
e
• Freelance cameramen were employed
in both New Zealand and South Africa
and, on occasion, in Brisbane, to
provide pool footage and interviews to
the five television stations. This was
effective in ensuring coverage of the
Reds’ preparations for away matches
Attracting media interest in club rugby
continues to be a difficult assignment. In
2003 Channel Seven and ABC TV agreed
to run Premier Rugby scores, with ABC-TV
also regularly running highlights from the
Friday night match on Saturday evening’s
7.00pm news. Some good results were
achieved when leading players were
available for their clubs. Daniel Herbert’s
comeback from injury was an example of
name players sparking media interest in
club rugby.
e
• A minimum of three media conferences
were held weekly throughout the
season, and were well attended
RUGBY WORLD CUP
u
A media officer (Bruce McKendry) was
employed and based full time at
Ballymore, with the responsibility of
improving not only the quantity of
coverage, but also the media skills of
individual Reds squad members. This was
achieved without adding to existing staff,
with the media officer also taking on the
duties of the web content manager he
replaced.
The move was an
unquestionable success, with increased
coverage particularly in the television
news sector. The increase was due to a
number of strategies.
PREMIER RUGBY
q
A Communications Department was
established as a separate entity at the end
of 2002 as part of an organisational
review, acknowledging the importance of
maximising media coverage for Rugby in
Queensland,
and
improving
communication to a wide range of
stakeholders.
Pe t e r Ke l l y
Communications
13
G ave n H e a d
Community Rugby
The Community Rugby Department has
once again experienced significant staff
turnover which seems to be a fact of life in
the recreation industry. New staff
appointments in 2003 include:
• Jason Gilmore
State Development Manager
• David Hanham
Brisbane Development Manager
• Wayne Gibson
Coach Accreditation Manager
t
• Nicole Comerford
Community Rugby Assistant
o
r
PERFORMANCE
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The strategic goal of growing the quantity
of participants within community Rugby
was achieved largely through a 10.5%
increase in regular school players. This
growth has been almost exclusively in
non-traditional rugby schools. Among the
strategies in place to ensure this growth
continues is the broadening the Ballymore
Cup to a statewide competition.
2
0
0
3
a
n
n
The exceptional growth in junior rugby
numbers of recent years slowed in 2003.
This is due to many of the existing clubs
operating at full capacity. Four Brisbane
clubs now have more than 500 players,
underlining the need for new clubs and
more fields. The establishment of six new
junior clubs - Redcliffe, Bulimba, Victoria
Point, Mooloolaba-Mt Creek, Maleny and
St Andrews is the first step in ensuring
the growth of previous years resumes.
d
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The drop in senior players was confined to
Queensland country, which appears to be
a bi-product of last year’s World Cup
ticketing campaign.
Brisbane’s nonPremier Clubs have recorded an increase
in playing numbers. This seems to indicate
that last year’s dramatic increase in
registrations was as much to do with
RWC ticketing insentives as a real
increase in actual players.
a
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The quality of participation experiences
available within Community Rugby was
improved through a range of measures.
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• The successful conduct of a regional
transition Under 19 representative
program.
This
provided
a
representative pathway for 52 players
from North and South Queensland who
competed for selection in the QAS
Under 19 team. Victoria participated in
14
this competition in 2003 and a
Queensland Suburban and Western
Australian teams are expected to
compete next season.
PARTICIPATION OVERVIEW
2001
Junior Clubs Players
• The integration of the Schools’
Representative program into the
Energex Reds’ Rugby College on an
identical platform to the successful
Under 16 initiative in 2002
• The development of a divisional
structure for Brisbane Club Rugby that
provides a logical stepped pathway for
the growth of developing clubs and
ensures that all teams from a club in
the same division play at the same
venue, on the same day, against the
same opposition, at adjacent times.
The strategic goal of improving the
sustainability and viability of Community
Rugby providers was achieved in two
ways.
• The successful conduct of a statewide
workshop of all affiliates and partners in
August to underpin the business
planning process
• The establishment of a Volunteer
Recognition Program.
RUGBY WORLD CUP
2003 has been most notable for the
Rugby World Cup. This has consumed
considerable time, energy and attention
during the year. It will be seen as a burden
during 2003 rather than an investment if
the Rugby community does not
significantly leverage the opportunity that
this event and the performance of the
Wallabies has provided.
The Community Rugby Department
provided four staff to RWC and numerous
volunteers and club administrators were
seconded to assist with the staging of the
tournament. All of these people should be
commended and it is hoped that the
experience will motivate and assist them
to make significant contributions in their
local Rugby community.
2002 2003
8775 10228 10285
Regular School Players 15228 18530 20489
Senior Club Players
Total Players
7676
8954 8369
31679 37712 39143
NB Figures may differ from ARU
Gavin Head
Community Rugby Manager
Reds Summary
While the team finished a lowly eighth in
the Super 12 table, they were in fact just
one win from the semi-finals, a statistic
made all the more frustrating when you
consider they lost two games by just
three points.
Indeed, those narrow
defeats came at the hands of the third
placed Hurricanes and fourth placed
Brumbies.
The Reds entered 2003 with a new coach
in Andrew Slack and captain in Toutai Kefu.
o
r
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The opening month proved to be a
baptism of fire for both men with four
successive defeats at the hands of the
Brumbies, Chiefs and eventual finalists
Crusaders and Blues.
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The Reds however bounced back in week
six with a storming win over old rivals
NSW in Sydney to maintain their proud
record of never having lost to the
Waratahs in the history of Super 12. The
game will best be remembered for winger
Wendell Sailor’s superb 80m solo try.
Comprehensive home wins over the Cats
and Sharks followed, before a fitting Super
12 finale at Ballymore for the overseasbound Kefu, Daniel Herbert, Matt
Cockbain and the retiring Glenn Panoho.
In a thrilling game an inspired Reds team
edged home against the Highlanders to
make it five wins in the final seven weeks
of Super 12. Although it was not enough
to make the play-offs the night ended on a
high as the departing players were given a
great send-off in an emotional lap of
honour around Ballymore.
In the tour games, a last minute try from
Stan Pilecki Medal winner Julian Huxley
helped the Reds to a great win over World
Cup finalists Samoa in June, but the
Fijians proved tougher opposition a
fortnight later to hang on for a narrow win.
It would be coach Andrew Slack’s last
match in charge of the Reds. The highly
respected former captain stepped down
from his position in July after a typically
honest admission that he had simply not
enjoyed his role. Everyone at the Reds
wishes him well and thanks him for his
outstanding efforts in 2003, a season that
ended a case of so near but yet so far.
3
a
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A narrow home defeat at the hands of the
Hurricanes followed before a memorable,
against the odds win over the Stormers in
Cape Town. It was perhaps the Reds best
performance of the season as they
overcame the harsh 8th minute sendingoff of hooker Tai McIsaac to outclass the
hapless home side.
Bulls side in Pretoria. It was not the way
to mark Toutai Kefu’s 100th game for
Queensland.
E l t o n F l a t l ey
It was a case of what might have been for
the Bank of Queensland Reds in 2003.
2
0
0
If that was the high of the year then the
low came a week later as the Reds semifinal hopes were ended by a rampant
y
Vodafone Super 12 Table
Won
Draw
Lost
For
Blues
11
10
0
1
Crusaders
11
8
0
3
Against
b1
b2
Pts
393
185
9
0
49
358
263
6
2
40
u
g
b
Played
11
7
0
4
324
284
7
0
35
ACT
11
6
0
5
358
313
5
2
31
d
n
Bulls
a
Highlanders
l
Reds
s
Stormers
n
Chiefs
e
Sharks
11
3
0
8
241
306
3
2
17
Cats
11
2
0
9
259
398
2
3
13
q
u
NSW
e
r
Hurricanes
16
11
6
0
5
320
344
7
0
31
11
6
0
5
320
354
4
2
30
11
6
0
5
287
246
2
3
29
11
5
0
6
281
318
4
2
26
11
5
0
6
255
354
3
0
23
11
2
0
9
288
319
5
5
18
Back Row: Drew Mitchell, Chris Latham, Julian Huxley, David Croft, Tai McIsaac, Peter Hynes
Third Row: Sean Hardman, Daniel Heenan, Adam Wallace-Harrison, Matt Cockbain, Nathan Sharpe, Luke Doherty, Michael Tabrett, Gene Fairbanks, Ben Wakely
Second Row: Damian Mednis, Daniel Herbert, Anthony Mathison, Tom McVerry, Steve Kefu, Fletcher Dyson, Wendell Sailor, Tim Atkinson, Anthony Herbert (manager), Alex Evans (skills coach)
Front Row: Andrew Slack (coach), Josh Valentine, Glenn Panoho, John Roe, Toutai Kefu, Ben Tune, Elton Flatley, Nick Stiles, Adrian Thompson (coaching co-ordinator)
2003 Bank of Qld Reds
Reds Statistics
COMPETITION
DATE
VENUE
OPPONENTS
SCORE
SCR
8/2/03
Ballymore
Crusaders
W 19-17
SCR
11/2/03
Carrara
Blues
L14-38
S12
22/2/03
Ballymore
Brumbies
L19-22
S12
1/3/03
C'church
Crusaders
L 6-34
S12
8/3/03
Hamilton
Chiefs
L 27-43
S12
21/3/03
Whangarei
Blues
L 20-62
Atkinson
HB
IC
IC
FH®
HB®
HB® t
Barton
W
Caughley
S12
29/3/03
Sydney
NSW
W 35-23
S12
4/4/03
Ballymore
Hurricanes
L23-26
S12
12/4/03
Cape Town
Stormers
W 41-20
L
F
F
Lt
L
L
L
F®
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
L®
L®
TH
TH
TH
TH
TH
TH
FH 1p
FH 3c,3p
FH 1c,2p
FH t,3c,5p
t
L
Croft
Doherty
r
L
Dyson
TH®
TH
o
L®
Fairbanks
IC t
C®
p
Cockbain
Flatley
FH® 2c
FH 1c
Graham
C®
C®
H®
H
L
TH
IC
H
H
H
H
H®
H®
Heenan
L®
L
L
L®
Herbert
OC
OC
OC t
OC
FH® 1c
FB (bb)
FB ®
FB t
W
FH 1c, 4p
FH
W®
u
FH® 1c
W
Kefu.S
OC
OC
OC
OC
n
FH
Hynes
Kefu.T
No.8
No.8
NO.8 y
No.8
n
Huxley
Latham
FB ®
FB
FB t
FB
3
Hoo
H
Mathison
LH
LH®
0
l
Hardman
a
e
FH t,3c,2p
r
IC 2p
McIsaac
H
H®
H®
H®
McVerry
F
F®
FB®
F®
TH
TH®
TH®
TH®
TH®
OC
FB
IC
IC t
IC
IC
No.8
No-8
No.8
No.8 t
FB
FB t
FB
H®
H®
H
H rc
L®
F (bb)
LH ®
TH®
TH®
a
Lee
Leo
0
Moore
2
Lyons
Niumata
Northcott
y
Panoho
LH®
b
Pelesasa
g
Sailor
u
Sampson
r
Roe
Sharpe
F t
F t
F
No.8
F
F
F t
F
W t
W
W
W 2t
W
W t
W
W
L y
L
L
L
L
Stiles
LH®
LH
d
Tabrett
FB t
FB ®
n
Stafford
Tronc
a
LH
LH
LH
W®
OC®
W®
LH
LH
LH
W t
L®
Tune
HB®
HB
W
W
W
W
W
W
HB
HB
HB
HB t
HB
HB t y
HB
L
L
L® t
L®
L®
l
Valentine
LH y
s
Wallace-Harrison
q
u
e
e
Wakely
n
Vedelago
18
L®
HB®
L
HB®
0
0
L
L
L
L
L t
L
15
76
91
62
73
35
45
30
35
F
F
F
F
F
Ft
15
31
46
22
33
5
10
0
0
3
0
3
0
0
0
0
0
0
9
40
49
33
40
15
15
5
5
3
0
3
0
1
0
5
0
0
13
82
95
59
69
384
515
348
473
FH 2c
FH 3c,5p
FH 1c, 5p
FH 4c
H
H
H
H
F®
L®
F®
F® t
OC
OC
OC
FB t
IC ®
IC
FB t
W®
W®
W
W
7
0
7
0
5
0
0
0
0
IC
IC
FB®
IC
13
35
48
22
33
20
25
20
25
No.8
No.8 t
No.8 t
No.8
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BRRS GAMES GAMES TOTAL
S12
TOTAL POINTS TOTAL
S12
TOTAL
29/6/03 IN 2003 PRE-2003 GAMES GAMES
S12 PRE-2003 POINTS POINTS
S12
Ballymore
PRE-2003 GAMES
PRE-2003 POINTS
Fiji
L24-31
u
BRRS
15/6/03
Ballymore
Samoa
W43-32l
r
S12
10-May
Ballymore
Highlanders
W 28-23
d
S12
3/5/03
Ballymore
Sharks
W 22-13
n
S12
26/4/03
Ballymore
Cats
W 41-13
a
S12
19/4/03
Pretoria
Bulls
L 19-39
19
Reds Honour Board
• Toutai Kefu played his 100th
game for Queensland against
the Bulls in Pretoria
• Sean Hardman played his 50th
game for Queensland against
the Blues in Whangarei
• Nathan Sharpe (65 caps) played
his 50th Super 12 game for the
Reds against the Highlanders
• John Roe made his Wallaby
debut against Namibia
l
r
e
p
• Chris Latham, Wendell Sailor,
Elton Flatley, John Roe, David
Croft, Nathan Sharpe & Matt
Cockbain were members of the
Australian World Cup squad.
3
a
n
n
u
a
• David Croft, Matt Cockbain,
Sean Hardman, Glenn Panoho
& Nick Stiles played in all 15
Reds games in 2003. Wendell
Sailor, Steve Kefu & Josh
Valentine played in every Super
12 game.
Daniel Heenan
• Elton Flatley set a new points
scoring record for the Reds in
Super 12 with a total of 26
against the Stormers in Cape
Town.
(One
try,
three
conversions & five penalties)
and passed the 500 points
mark for Queensland.
o
r
t
• Daniel Heenan made his
Wallaby debut against Wales
G e n e Fa i r b a n k s
• 19 players made their Reds
debuts – Tim Atkinson, Luke
Caughley, Luke Doherty, Gene
Fairbanks,
Josh
Graham,
Damian Hoo, Julian Huxley,
Peter Hynes, Kuresa Lee, Dan
Leo, Chris Lyons, Tai McIsaac,
Stephen Moore, Pete Niumata,
Cameron Northcott, Matt
Stafford, Brad Tronc, Josh
Valentine, Adam WallaceHarrison
• Reds coaching co-ordinator
Adrian Thompson led the
Australian ‘A’ team on an
undefeated two-match tour of
Japan.
b
PLAYER
g
COCKBAIN
u
CROFT
r
Sean Hardman
y
2
0
0
• Nick Stiles is the only Red to
have played in every game for
the past four seasons – 67
consecutive matches
FLATLEY
IRE
WALES
ENG
SA
NZ
SA
NZ
ARG
ROM
NAM
F®
No 8®
F®
F
FH t6c1p
FH
IC
IC 5p2c
IC 4p
IC 4p1c
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HEENAN
FH 1p
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IC
IC
IC
KEFU T
No 8
No 8
No 8
No 8
No8
No8
LATHAM
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a
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KEFU S
s
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SAILOR
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W
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SHARPE
L
L
L
L®
L®
L®
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q
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PANOHO
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l
FB 5t
20
No 8®t
REDS FAREWELL STALWARTS
Matt Cockbain is also heading to Japan
after nine years of loyal service to the
Reds. He played in all 15 of the Reds
matches in 2003 to end his career on 91
caps.
The Bank of Queensland Reds said
farewell to four stalwarts in 2003.
Toutai Kefu, Daniel Herbert, Matt
Cockbain and Glenn Panoho played a total
of 418 games for Queensland and all will
be sorely missed.
TOM MURPHY
r
Capped 63 times by Australia, he will play
his rugby in France next season for
European Cup Finalists Perpignan.
Kefu’s Reds career ended on a high on an
emotional night against the Highlanders at
Ballymore. He played 103 times for
Queensland, in a fantastic career dating
back to 1995. Capped 60 times by
Australia, Toutai captained the Reds in
2003 and is Wallaby vice-captain.
r
e
p
An outstanding 10-year career began
against the South African side Border in
1993 and ended against the Sharks at
Ballymore in April. In that time he made
124 appearances for his state, scoring 22
tries.
Glenn Panoho is hanging up his boots
after 90 appearances for the Reds. His
began and finished his Queensland career
against Fiji, making his debut in Suva in
1993 and signing off a decade later
against the same opponents at Ballymore.
He played in every Reds game in 2003
and was rewarded with a recall to the
Wallaby squad. He plans to pursue a
career in Law.
o
Herbert’s final year at the Reds was
dogged by injury, but he leaves as the
joint-second highest capped Queensland
player of all time.
t
A World Cup winner with the Wallabies in
1999, Cockbain finished in style, picking
up the award for the Reds most reliable
player.
NZ
ENG
No 8®
F®
F®
No 8®
IC 3p
IC 4p3c
IC 5c1p IC 4p
W
W
W
L
L
L
n
a
3
g
SCOT
q
u
e
e
n
Daniel Herbert
L
To u t a i Ke f u
s
l
a
n
d
r
u
IRE
b
y
2
0
0
Denied by injury of a place at his second
Rugby World Cup, he has agreed a threeyear contract with Japanese club Kubota.
M a tt C o ck b a i n
Tom played 15 times for Queensland and
was selected for the Australian A team in
2002. In a varied career he also played for
the ACT Brumbies and in England with
Harlequins and Cambridge University.
n
u
a
l
Reds hooker Tom Murphy was forced to
retire from the game due to a serious
neck injury suffered in pre-season training.
21
Energex Reds
Rugby College
In 2003 the Energex Reds Rugby College
entered its sixth year of operation and
saw a number of changes with the college
becoming a department of the
Queensland
Rugby
Union
High
Performance Unit. The programs and
teams now associated with the Energex
RRC allow it to challenge the players in all
areas of their development.
In 2003 Energex Reds Rugby College
Scholarship graduates Daniel Heenan and
John Roe debuted for the Wallabies,
earning their first caps against the
England and Namibia respectively. They
join Nic Stiles, Steve Kefu, Sean Hardman
and David Croft as alumni to have won
Wallaby caps.
community giving players the ability to
achieve their potential on and off the field.
ROOKIE SQUAD
13 players completed the 2003 Rookie
Program
John Adams (Easts), Greg Small
(University), James Horwill (University),
Daniel Collins (Breakers), Richard Brown
(Wests), Nathan Skelton (Easts), Ben
Mowen (Easts), John Hoyland (Easts), Nic
Berry (Sunnybank), Lachlan Morgan
(Brothers), Shane Boyd (Sunnybank),
James Keen (Easts), Sam Sataui
(Brothers)
r
t
Highlights for 2003 were:
o
PROGRAMS
r
e
p
A Squad
In 2003, 11 athletes completed their 12month scholarships with the Energex
Reds Rugby College.
a
n
n
u
a
l
They were Herman Hunt (University),
Greg Holmes (Sunnybank), Ole Avei
(Sunnybank), Hugh McMeniman (Wests),
Daniel Leo (Sunnybank), Shane Arnold
(GPS), Chris Lyons (University), Junior
Hunt (Sunnybank), Adam Connelly (Easts),
Reece Goode (University), Tim Mosey
(Wests)
Highlights for 2003 were :
0
0
3
Australian 7s – Chris Lyons, Adam
Connelly
Reds – Chris Lyons, Daniel Leo
b
y
2
Sean Hedger and Phil Mooney delivered
Rugby Skills during the season to all
scholarship holders and Tony Wilson
delivered all strength and conditioning.
a
n
d
r
u
g
Miranda Banks is employed by RUPA to
assist all scholarship holders with the
personal and professional development.
All players underwent ACE player
interviews, to discuss career and personal
development issues. From these
interviews individual vocational plans
were developed for each scholarship
holder.
n
s
l
Workshops were conducted in nutrition,
careers, player management, players and
the law, sexual health, media training,
drugs in sport and public speaking.
q
u
e
e
Employment opportunities were found for
scholarship holders with a number of
sponsors and members of the Rugby
22
Australian 7s – Richard Brown
Australian U21 – Richard Brown
Rugby Skills: Phil Mooney
Strength and Conditioning: Tony Wilson
Workshops in Nutrition, Careers, and
drugs in sport: Miranda Banks
SCHOOLBOYS
26 boys were in the inaugural RRC
Schoolboy squad
Sio Kite (BSHS), Geoff Abram (BBC), Sam
Todd (TGS), Cameron Gillam (Downlands),
Andrew Gray (IGS), Tom Hockings (ACGS),
Edward Nanai (BSHS), Raymond Stowers
(BSHS), Adam Gardiner (Sunshine Coast),
Chris Hanley (TGS), Jake Drinkwater (IGS),
Ryan Newman (TSS), Matt McDonald
(Sunshine Coast), Vitori Buatava (TSS),
Berrick Barnes (IGS), Matt Brandon
(ACGS), Scott Daruda (Nudgee), Chris
Currie (BSHS), Lloyd Johansen (TSS),
Digby Ioane (Gregory Terrace), Tajohn
Malaita (Nudgee), Misipati Asoava
(Woodridge SHS), Liam Bibo (St.
Lawrence’s),
David
Barbeller
(St.Lawrence’s), Sani Mananu (IGS), Sean
Tongia (NC)
Highlights for 2003 were:
Australian Schoolboys – Geoff Abram,
Ryan Newman, Matt Brandon, Lloyd
Johansen, Digby Ioane, Liam Bibo
Rugby Skills: Sean Hedger
Strength and Conditioning Matt Atkin
Workshops in Nutrition, Careers, and
drugs in sport: Miranda Banks
YOUTH
60 players from throughout the state
completed the Youth Squad program.
The program commenced with a three
day assembly at Ballymore where all
players were tested and programmed in
strength and conditioning. The players
also completed a range of skill training and
analysis and were given a full review.
Education sessions in nutrition, careers
and drugs in sport were conducted.
TEAMS
Ricoh Queensland A
2003 saw an expansion of the Ricoh
Queensland A program which provide
some excellent opportunities for Reds
contracted players needing vital match
fitness and chances to prove their ability.
It also gave young players an experience
of rugby at a much higher level.
The team was coached by Phil Mooney,
Sean Hedger and Michael Heenan and
was supported by Tony Wilson, Dr. Peter
Welsh , Dr. Phil Mansfield, Catherine
McDougall, Shane Lempke and Damian
Hearne.
Results for the season were mixed, but
the programme was an unquestionable
success, with more than 30 of our best up
and coming players exposed to a higher
standard of rugby.
Ballymore
Qld A v Premier Clubs
48 - 28
Ballymore
Qld A v Brumby Runners
14 - 23
Ballymore
Qld A v Sydney
55 - 21
Townsville
Qld A v Japan
19 - 44
Ballymore
Qld A v Japan
52 - 22
Ipswich
Qld A v Aust Barbarians
33 - 17
Sydney
Qld A v Sydney
5 - 53
Canberra
Qld A v Brumby Runners
32 - 32
Gold Coast
Qld A v Tonga
12 - 21
Queensland Schoolboys
2003 was the first time the Energex RRC
was heavily involved in the Queensland
Schoolboys program. Sean Hedger was
involved in selection, planning and
coaching with both teams at the National
Championships. Jason Gilmore and Grant
Dwyer from the community rugby
department were also involved as
technical assistants.
QLD
QLD
QLD
QLD
QLD
QLD
QLD
QLD
Sean Hedger was the Coaching
coordinator and was assisted by Michael
Crank, Paul Carozza and Matt Pini as well
as Gaven Head, Martin Field-Dobson,
Wayne Gibson and David Hanham from
the community rugby department.
The support staff included Manager Bruce
1 v ACT
1 v NSW 2
v Combined States
1 v NSW 1
19- 15
25 - 14
43 - 0
39 - 33
v NSW 2
v Combined States
v NSW 1
v ACT
17 – 15
22 - 11
7 - 20
7 - 19
Results – 4th Nationals
Queensland Under 16
The RRC was involved with the staff
appointments, selection and coaching of
both teams
Casey and physiotherapists Greg Condon
and Tom Hillier.
QLD White v NSW Schools
QLD White v Western Australia
QLD White v Victoria
0 - 22
22 - 0
13 - 7
Result – 5th
QLD Red v Victoria
QLD Red v ACT
QLD Red v NSW Juniors
27 - 17
20 - 3
0-3
Result – 2nd
Damian Herne
Energex Reds Rugby College Manager
p
o
r
Results – Winner National Schoolboy
Champions
2
2
2
2
t
The preparation reaped dividends with the
Schoolboys
winning
the
national
championship with a 39-33 victory
over New South Wales at Anglican Church
Grammar School in July. The difference in
school leaving ages between states
means that the Queensland team
invariably is a year younger than its
opponents. This reinforces the quality of
their achievement.
e
Energex Reds Rugby College Scholarship Holder of the Year - Richard Brown (Wests)
e
e
n
s
l
a
n
d
r
u
g
b
y
2
0
0
3
a
n
n
u
a
l
r
Energex Reds Rugby College Rookie of the Year - Nic Berry (Sunnybank)
q
u
Australian Schoolboy Lloyd Johansen - a member of the inaugural RRC Schoolboy squad
23
Queensland Academy
of Sport Under 19s
The QAS Under 19s competed in the Trans
Tasman Challenge, a competition
contested by the Under 19 sides of
Queensland, New South Wales, ACT,
Canterbury (NZ) and Otago (NZ).
Our competition kicked off with a match
against Otago in Dunedin. In bleak
conditions, the QAS side showed
admirable composure to score a last
minute try and secure a 17–11 victory.
identify the players who may be able to
step up in the future and play Super 12.
Our next challenge was the ACT in
Canberra. This was an evenly contested
match that was in the balance right up
until the final minutes. Late tries by Drew
Mitchell, Nic Berry and Nathan Skelton
allowed us to register a 38-29 win.
The players and management who
represented the QAS in 2003 were:
The final match of the competition was
against NSW at Ballymore. Depending on
the final outcome, Canterbury, NSW and
Queensland all stood a chance of winning
the tournament. After an even first half
NSW went to the break leading 15-13. It
was a completely different story in the
second half with NSW galloping away to
win by 53-23.
q
u
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e
n
s
l
a
n
d
r
u
g
b
y
2
0
0
3
a
n
n
u
a
l
r
e
p
o
The final match of the tour was against
Canterbury in Christchurch. In a match
where the home side dominated in the
forwards and controlled possession, we
were beaten by 18-8. Although the QAS
team were dangerous in attack, the lack of
possession eventually took its toll and the
home side ran out deserved winners.
Although disappointed with the final
result, the tour was a wonderful
experience for the team in exposing them
24
London Sau
Ben Mowen (v/c)
Heath Tessman
Tom Wakely
John Adams
Greg Small
James Horwill
Tim Harrison
Pat O’Connor
Martin Perkins
Daniel Collins
Nathan Skelton
Ewan McGregor
Nic Berry
Jimmy Maguire
Chris Lyons
Shayne Boyd
Brett Muldoon
This meant that NSW secured the
championship ahead of Canterbury with
the QAS and Otago finishing in equal
third.
Sam Hannant
Joe Keane
Sam Satui
James Keen
Drew Mitchell ©
Jay Jameson
Finally, we must acknowledge the
continued support of the Queensland
Government through the Queensland
Academy of Sport. Through this support,
we are able to provide our elite Under 19
talent with outstanding competition and
Coaches:
r
t
Our second match on tour was a non
competition game against the Canterbury
Under 19 ‘B’ side in Christchurch. Once
again in wet and cold conditions, the side
finished stronger than our opposition to
post two late tries and secure a hard
fought 12- 5 win.
to elite competition and travel similar to
that of the Super 12.
Phil Mooney, David Bell,
Ian Jones
Manager: Neil Armstrong
Physio:
Cath McDougall
Queensland Premier
Rugby Statistics
FINALS RESULTS
XXXX MEDALLIST
PREMIER GRADE FINALS
Major Semi-Final
Canberra Vikings
d
University
28-25
Minor Semi-Final
Gold Coast
d
Wests
29-13
Preliminary Final
Gold Coast
d
University
20-17
Canberra Vikings
d
Gold Coast
29-16
Wests
d
University
30-29
Brothers
Easts
d
d
Souths
Wests
28-14
30-13
Grand Final
Mark Bartholomeusz
(Vikings)
COLT OF THE YEAR
LOWER GRADE GRAND FINALS
Black Rhinos
d
West Moreton
Division 2nd Grade
Murrumba
d
Wynnum
24-13
Division 1st Grade
University
d
Beenleigh
25-5
15-12
OC/Redlands
d
Easts (2)
Medicals
d
Kenmore
University
d
Easts
Brothers
d
University
University
d
Wynnum
Easts
d
Eagles
Wyatt Cup
Colts Division 1st Grade
Colts Division 2nd Grade
Colts Division 2 1st Grade
12-5
18-3
37-12
e
Women's
21-3
25-17
t
Normanby Cup
22-5
r
Division 1st Grade
Ben Mowen
(Easts)
o
Division 2nd Grade
Division 3rd Grade
p
Division 1st Grade
For
0
336
Against Points
147
40
Canberra Vikings 9
7
2
8
1
0
416
169
37
Wests
9
7
2
5
0
0
325
208
33
Gold Coast
9
6
3
5
3
0
330
179
32
Brothers
9
5
4
5
1
0
317
233
26
Sunnybank
9
3
5
7
0
1
244
330
21
GPS
9
4
5
3
1
0
202
307
20
Souths
9
2
7
7
0
0
266
344
15
Easts
9
2
6
2
2
1
186
292
14
Norths/QUT
9
0
9
0
1
0
81
494
1
l
Draw
1
a
Lst-7
7
u
4+Tries
1
n
Lost
8
n
Win
9
a
Play
2
0
0
University
3
Premier
r
PREMIER GRADE COMPETITION POINTS
PREMIER GRADE LEADING POINT SCORERS
Club
Tries
Conv.
Penalties
Fld Goals
Total
84
Nathan Williams
Gold Coast
6
15
3
0
69
Julian Huxley
Wests
3
15
6
0
63
Shane Arnold
GPS
3
9
8
0
57
Benjamin Spearritt
Easts
1
15
6
0
53
Tyron Mandrusiak
Souths
0
15
6
0
48
Kasey Mitchell
Sunnybank
9
1
0
0
47
Stuart Eagles
Vikings
9
1
0
0
47
John Roe
Wests
9
0
0
0
45
Sunnybank
0
21
1
0
45
Damian Hoo
Wests
2
11
4
0
44
Kuresa Lee
Sunnybank
8
0
0
0
40
Matt Jardine
Sunnybank
8
0
0
0
40
Vikings
6
5
0
0
40
Tim Sampson
Mark Bartholomeusz
g
0
u
8
r
25
d
2
n
University
a
91
Chris Lyons
l
100
0
s
0
13
n
0
26
e
0
0
e
20
Brothers
u
Vikings
David Collis
q
Damien McInally
b
y
Name
25
Club Reports
Vikings
20
Sunnybank
9
John Roe
Wests
9
Stuart Eagles
Vikings
9
Matt jardine
Sunnybank
8
Kuresa Lee
Sunnybank
8
Kasey Mitchell
DOUGHTY SHIELD
t
Easts
r
University
o
Wests
p
Brothers
e
Sunnybank
r
Souths
260
GPS
236
l
Wynnum
206
a
Logan City
195
u
Redlands
187
n
Murrumba
173
n
Black Rhinos
120
a
(CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP)
566
West Moreton
120
510
400
375
283
3
0
Woogaroo
0
118
107
Norths/QUT
Beenleigh
2
Brisbane Harlequins
Ipswich
81
Everton Park
80
68
48
46
45
y
b
g
u
St Leo's Old Boys
Canberra Vikings
Beaudesert
26
Eagles
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Trouts
23
Vet. Science
22
Lismore
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Brisbane Irish
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Kenmore
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Pine Rivers
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Medicals
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Browns Plains
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Gold Coast
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93
91
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33
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0
GO
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RUGBY UNION
GOLD COAST BREAKERS
The Breakers Premier team competed in
the Hospital’s Cup Grand Final for the
second time in three seasons. As a
consequence we lay claim to have been
the “best team in Queensland” for the
second time in three years after being
beaten by the very professional Canberra
Vikings 29 to 16.
The Breakers Colts team endured a
difficult season with a single draw to
boast about. However the majority of their
losses were by narrow margins. The team
displayed much character and remained
committed throughout the season. The
Breakers colts will continue to evolve and
will in due course become a force in that
competition.
Highlights
• Prop Grant Anderson becoming the
first Breakers player to play 100 First
Grade games for the Club.
• Hooker Tai McIsaac became the first
“home grown” Reds player. Born in
Brisbane but raised on the Gold Coast.
• First Grade Forward Coach Mike
Thomas completed a remarkable 18th
season as a First Grade Coach in the
senior Brisbane Club Competition.
• Daniel Collins, Ben Windsor and Joe
Keane [Surfers Paradise] represented
QAS Under 19s in 2003.
• Sam Batty, Nathan Williams, Matt
Stafford, Luke Peers [Nerang] and
Kurtis Smith represented the Australian
Barbarians during 2003.
E d O’ D o n o g u h e ( We s t s ) v D a r r e n D av i e s ( G o l d C o a s t )
Tries
CO
Damien McInally
Club
D
Name
The Breakers determination to develop
“local” talent was highlighted by the
number of players in the Breakers that
came from the ranks of the Gold Coast &
Districts Rugby Unions clubs.
AST
TOP TRY SCORERS
• Joshua Fuimaono, Matt Stafford and
Nathan Williams competed in trials for
the Australian 7s team.
Australian Universities: Brent Griffiths
Congratulations also go to all the teams,
particularly the Women’s 1st Division
team who made it into the semis.
This was the Breakers seventh season in
the competition.
We wish also to acknowledge referees,
administrators and QRU officials for
providing the Breakers with the
opportunity to compete in the Brisbane
Club Competition.
We believe that the Gold Coast will prove
to be a very valuable contributor to the
continuing success of Queensland rugby
well into the future.
Grant Batty
General Manager
Norths-QUT
would
also
like
to
congratulate the following players for their
representative selections throughout the
year:
Australian Barbarians: Kris Burton, Lua
Lua Vailoaloa, Dan Melon, Rebecca
Blackman and Iliseva Batibasaga.
President’s XV: Peter Loli
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The continued commitment of Head
Coach Terry Burkett has been invaluable to
the club in previous seasons and again in
2003. Although Terry has decided to take
a sabbatical from full time coaching next
season, he will continue to be involved
with the club and the commitment he has
shown to the redevelopment of NorthsQUT has been outstanding.
b
The Gold Coast Breakers offer their thanks
to all the clubs comprising the Brisbane
competition for the manner in which they
were received in 2003.
g
The club was again well served by an
outstanding Board of Directors, chaired by
Warren Carey.
Sunnybank was noted for its expansive
ball in hand style of rugby in which all
players take responsibility for using the
ball. The game style has been developed
at the club over the last few seasons. As a
result Sunnybank has one of the best try
scoring records in the competitions with
fans being treated to many fine games of
attacking rugby.
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President’s Award – Chris Churchin.
After claiming the treasured Doughty
Shield in 2002 as club champions
retirements and a heavy injury toll forced
the Sunnybank Dragons into a rebuilding
phase in 2003. The off-season saw the
departure of Queensland Reds duo, Tim
Tavalea through retirement and Jason
Ramsamy to North Queensland. The club
was then hit with an unprecedented injury
toll early season with Premier Grade
players, Adam Wallace-Harrison, Mike
Iosefa, Bruce Heard, John Dart lost with
season ending injuries.
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Supporter of the Year – Chris Strachan
SUNNYBANK
d
Clubman of the Year – Mark Sorensen
2004 will see the introduction of a number
of development programs at Norths-QUT.
Of particular note is the Norths-QUT Colts
Development Program, which will assist
in developing the many young and
enthusiastic players coming through the
Club. As many as 20 players may be
receiving sponsorships to support their
academic and sporting responsibilities.
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Best Defender – Sam Batty
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Most Improved Back – Blair Wilkes
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Best Back – Waitai Walker
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Most Improved Forward – Josh Fuimaono
The injury predicament forced to club to
blood many of it 2002 Colts Grand Final
side in top grade earlier than initially
planned. The young Dragons under the
tutelage of Coach Damon Emtage rose to
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Best Forward – Tai McIsaac
The combined efforts of these committee
members saw an improvement in all
facets of the Norths-QUT Rugby Club
from an increase in player numbers
through to an increased level of
sponsorship during the 2003 season. In
addition, the strengthening of the club’s
relationships with Kedron Wavell Services
Club, Shaw Sports and Queensland
University of Technology will underwrite
the growth and improvement for 2004 and
beyond.
With the introduction of programmes to
develop the potential within the playing
staff and the stability that now exists in
the coaching and administrative staff the
future for Norths-QUT in 2004 and beyond
looks bright.
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Club Best and Fairest – Nathan Williams
2003 saw a number of new enthusiastic
additions to the Norths-QUT committee
including a new President and a number
of players’ representatives including one
from the women’s team.
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Senior Club awards for 2003 were:
NORTHS-QUT
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Breakers organised functions and events
were again well supported by the local
community. The now famous “Corney’s
Annual Luncheon” was attended by over
1,000 guests while the Breakers and Gold
Coast & Districts Rugby Union hosted
Queensland Reds versus Auckland Blues
match watched by over 8,000 spectators.
Also hosted was the Tongan World Cup
team’s game against Queensland A.
Norths-QUT also thanks Couran Cove, Cha
Cha Char, Bank of Queensland, Kedron
Wavell Services Club, Triple M, Ace House
Restumping, Complete Janitorial Supplies
and Junction Road Physiotherapy for their
continued support of the Club.
q
Corporate support for the Breakers
continues to grow. Major sponsors
Conrad Jupiters and City Finance Cash &
Loans were supported by numerous other
sponsors.
27
Club Reports
in 2004, while our junior affiliate AshgroveGPS remains a living testament to the
fecundity of rugby loving couples in the
northwestern suburbs.
the occasion forming a competitive unit
and with an ounce of luck could have been
semi finalists in both competitions. In all,
nine 2002 Colts made their premier
debuts for the club in 2003.
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The first round saw the emergence of
future star Nick Berry. Still eligible for
Colts, Nick moved to the senior grades
and performed strongly at scrum half. Nick
was rewarded with a Queensland U19
jersey at the season’s end. The strong
running Kuresa Lee another graduate from
the 2002 Colts also made his mark was
rewarded with a Queensland jersey. The
second half of the season saw the return
of the club’s overseas campaigners Tim
Sampson and Kasey Mitchell. Sampson
gave the club much needed experience at
fly half whilst Mitchell clearly benefited
from the club’s sprint work to be a
revelation at out centre.
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A loss to GPS in the second last game of
the season meant that a final’s place was
not to be a reality for the Premier team in
2003.
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David Giffin – Australia
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A number of players were selected for
representative honours:
Adam Wallace-Harrison – Queensland
3
Tim Sampson – Queensland A
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Daniel Leo – Queensland A
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Oli Avei – Queensland A
2
Kuresa Lee – Queensland
Nick Berry – QAS U19s
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Shayne Boyd – QAS U19s
Sunnybank has every reason to be
optimistic about its future. On field the
club has a healthy stable of quality young
players who will be better for the
experiences of 2003. The club’s junior
sides are performing well and links
between the senior and junior clubs have
never been stronger. Sunnybank’s
licensed club continues to grow and plans
are afoot to further develop the club’s
facilities. The next few seasons may well
see the club deliver on its long promised
potential.
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London Sau – QAS U19s
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Sam Hannant – QAS U19s
GPS
The season promised much but delivered
only frustration for the GPS open grades,
but the colts’ performances and
developments off the field renewed
optimism at the Gallopers.
Jeeps started 2003 with healthy stocks in
the tight five and at least one more
halfback than was considered good for us.
After starting the Welsby Cup with four
straight wins, Premier Grade’s fortunes
spiralled downwards as the injury toll
mounted and they finished the season
with eight wins, eight losses and a draw.
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We congratulate Daniel Heenan on
making his Wallaby debut in 2003, and our
other senior representatives Ben Tune,
Tom McVerry, Tim Atkinson, Ben Wakely,
Michael Tabrett and Anthony Mathison.
Two of our colts, Martin Perkins and Pat
O’Connor were selected in the
Queensland Under 19 side and are also
destined for greater things.
Paul Reid
President
The upside was that several players who
might not otherwise have had the chance
to shine rose to the challenge
magnificently, while others who were
forced to switch positions also surprised
both themselves and their coaches. Out
of adversity comes hope.
Hope also from the performance of the
GPS U19s, under Colts Director Alex
Pope. After a couple of indifferent years
for the GPS Colts, Alex and his helpers
arrived on the scene and put considerable
energy into recruiting and retaining a new
breed of young Gallopers.
Colts I and II reached the preliminary final
before being eliminated by stronger and
more experienced sides, but this fine
group of young men wants to finish the
job next year and has already started a
self-financed, off-season training program.
Off the field, GPS signed an agreement
with the Murrumba Rugby Club, the
Caboolture and Redcliffe juniors and our
Albany Creek-GPS affiliate to work
together to develop rugby in the northern
region.
The GPS-Murrumba Alliance will be a
work in progress for 2004, but will involve
Jeeps playing at least one Premier Grade
match in the alliance region as a rugby
promotion.
Albany Creek-GPS could field 200 players
28
Sadly, we farewell one of our favourite
sons, Daniel Herbert, who has played at
Ashgrove since age seven. We’re also sad
to lose Matt Cockbain who, like Daniel,
will ply his trade overseas in 2004.
WEST BRISBANE BULLDOGS
The club had over 320 registered players
spread across 10 teams playing in 7
divisions - Premier, first division (three
teams), third division, colts (three teams),
Friday night and women.
The club came third in the Doughty shield
with seven teams making the finals Premier, first grade, third grade, fourth
grade, Friday night, colts 1 and women.
Teams all made the top four in their
divisions but only first Grade, under the
guidance of coaches Matt Wright and Alan
Edmond, was able to take it all the way
and secure the trophy.
There
have
been
significant
improvements in coaching and team
management this season and plans are
currently being finalised to ensure we
continue to improve in this key area. Julian
Gardner was appointed Club Coaching
Director in late October.
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Wests Brisbane Bulldogs are looking
forward to promoting club rugby at Sylvan
Road, Toowong following the success of
the World Cup.
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The Club is fortunate to have Jim and
Dianne Meaney run the licensed club and
bistro following a period from September
During the year the board worked very
effectively. The hard worked began in
December 2002 when they met on a
weekly basis till March 2003. From then
on the Board met fortnightly. Their
dedication and hard work are evident in
the club’s achievements for the year.
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Licensed Club
The Board
s
Australian Sevens
Richard Brown, Scott Barton
The club players were responsible for
painting both the Licensed Club and the
players’ bar and change rooms. The Club
had four working bees which helped to
upgrade and beautify our playing and
social areas. The club appointed a new
General Manager, Garry Arthur, in
February who managed the entire facility
upgrade.
Two Wests support staff, Karen Keach and
Julie Ryan, were awarded Australian
Rugby Volunteer of the Decade Awards for
their dedication to Wests and local rugby.
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Queensland A
Ed O’Donoghue, Damian Hoo, Peter
Nuimata, Scott Barton
Administration
Awards
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Bank of Queensland Reds
Julian Huxley, John Roe, Chris Latham
Brisbane Women’s Barbarians
Letta Betthel, Gemma Sheridan, Mela
Tiquri, Nora Yellab, Loni Tulloch, Sia Sa’u
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Wallabies
John Roe, Chris Latham
Australian Combined Services
Tommy Navasolo, Shaun Richardson
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Representative Honours
Queensland Academy of Sport Under 19s
Tim Casey, Carl Fritz, John Frith, Max Hall,
Tim Harrison
2002 to the beginning of February 2003
when the bar was closed. We are
struggling to keep the doors open but
hopefully next year with a bigger
emphasis on Club rugby (following the
World Cup) we will be able to regain our
former local patronage.
q
Wests were extremely vigilant in regard to
player conduct, on and off the field this
year and it has paid dividends with only
two players needing to attend judiciary
hearings with one being charged and one
being exonerated.
Queensland Under 21
Richard Brown, Hugh McMineman
Jo h n G r a s s o ( E a s t s )
A major focus has been placed onto
recruitment of both established senior
players and schoolboys to bolster our
playing ranks, improve our ability to field a
large number of successful teams and
provide the opportunity for all to
participate at their level and ability.
29
Club Reports
Rugby Manager:
David Eagle
Development Officer:
Ryan O’Grady
Committee Members: Bill Selman, Brad
Williams,
Weibler, Brian Poole, Harry Charalambous
As a club, the 2003 season saw Easts
attain our major goal of the year, winning
the
Doughty
Shield
as
Club
Championship. This is only the second
time Easts have won the Doughty Shield,
with the previous success coming in 1987.
Paul
Weightman,
Michael
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Grant Hanham
Vice-President:
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President:
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This year Easts fielded 12 senior teams,
with 8 teams competing in semi finals.
Our Colts 1 and Normanby Cup teams
both finished the season runners-up with
our third grade and Women’s team
winning premierships. I extend my
heartiest congratulations to our Women’s
team
for
winning
back-to-back
premierships.
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From the end of the 2000 season, Easts
have lost 37 Premier grade players to
either retirement or contracts overseas.
With such a core group of players leaving,
our depth, at times, has been extended. It
is pleasing to see some of our younger
players stepping up to the mark to
continue our success through the grades
again this season.
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I offer my congratulations to the following
players on achieving representative
honours this season: Gene Fairbanks
Queensland Reds and Australian 21s,
James Keen, Ben Mowen, Nathan Skelton
and John Adams on representing the
Queensland
Academy
of
Sport/Queensland Under 19s.
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After negotiation with the Brisbane City
Council, Easts secured the lease for the
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whole Bottomley Park complex. This will
enable us to have full control of Bottomley
Park and ensure we have three top-level
playing surfaces within the coming years.
Extensive work will be completed on our
Number 1 field in the off-season and the
Brisbane City Council has already begun
reconstructing our Number 2 field. The
Council is providing an underground
irrigation system as well as building up the
existing field and returfing in time for
season 2004. The same process will take
place on Number 3 oval at the end of the
2004 season.
Easts Juniors continues to grow and
provide Tigers of tomorrow. This year
Easts formed a new satellite junior club at
Bulimba, namely “Easts Riverside”. In their
first year of operation, Easts Riverside
fielded seven teams, with one team
reaching the Grand Final. Along with the
40 teams Easts Juniors ran out this
season, the future is looking bright for
Easts. We are currently weighing up our
options to start another satellite club for
2004/5 to extend our ties even further
within our South-Eastern community.
All at Easts were saddened earlier in the
year with the sudden passing of expresident Geoff Box. Geoff was a tireless
worker at Easts for a number of years, and
led the charge to Premierships in the late
1990’s for our first Grade. The Geoff Box
Memorial Fund has been set up at Easts
to help raise money to further develop the
Bottomley Park Complex and Easts
players in general. Geoff’s legacy will
continue for many years to come.
I would like to congratulate the Canberra
Vikings on winning their third Premiership
in a row. All at Easts are sad to see them
leave our competition. The Vikings
definitely raised the standard of the
Competition and I know our players and
coaching staff enjoyed playing them and
our supporters loved coming out to watch
them play.
I would like to extend my thanks to both
the Senior and Junior committees at Easts
for their tireless work in 2003. The
foundations laid this year will see Easts
continue to develop and remain strong for
many years to come.
Grant Hanham
President
UNIVERSITY
During season 2003 the University of
Queensland Rugby Club made major
steps forward both on and off the playing
field.
Off Field
Off field the Club sponsor base developed
with the direction of Business Manager
Ray Talbot. The question was asked “What
can we give back to the Sponsors?” and
the Club responded by supplying the
Sponsors with packages that included
corporate lunches, promotional events,
Melbourne Cup function, corporate
breakfast, corporate golf day as well as
developing home match day as an event.
At all home matches the Club arranged a
Sponsors’ area which catered for the
families of sponsors and their guests with
children’s rides, face painting and
children’s cinema as well as the improved
catering arrangements.
The match program was improved and
was hugely successful as was the new
Red Heavy website.
A range of Red Heavy merchandise was
produced and proved popular with
supporters, members and players.
Harpoon Harry’s Players Bar was
refurbished and re-opened by Club Old
Boys Harold Shand and Jim Wilson post
the excellent home victory against the
Canberra Vikings. This proved to be a
wonderful facility for the players and
supporters alike.
On Field
On field the Club had a successful season
with the top five grades making the semifinal playoffs and all three Colts sides.
Premier Grade, 1st Grade, 2nd Grade and
Colts 1 won Minor Premierships with 4th
Grade, Colts 1 and Colts 3 progressing to
win Premierships.
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The colts had another good year with both
colts 1 & 3 just missing the finals by one
point and the colts 2 claiming the
premiership for season 2003.
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With the average age around 21
throughout the club the future looks bright
provided we can retain the services of
these players.
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The year started with the best player
attendances we have had in many years.
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Unfortunately, Club stalwart Tom Murphy
was lost to the game through injury and
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FA
James Horwell, Greg Small, Drew
Mitchell, Chris Lyons, Jay Jameson, Tom
Wakely and Heath Tessman represented
Queensland Under 19s.
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BROTHERS
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Nathan Sharpe, Nick Stiles, Peter Hynes,
Rudi Vedelago, Stephen Moore, Chris
Lyons, Ben Wakely and Josh Graham
represented Queensland Reds.
RO
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Mark Crick, Angus Moxon, Phil Rowell,
Nathan Johnson, Ashley Elphinston,
Herman Hunt, Tim Usasz and Reece
Goode represented the Australian
Universities side in the annual Sir Weary
Dunlop match against the Australian
Services.
Mitchell Chapman, Drew Mitchell and
Premier Grade Captain Chris Shaw all
represented Queensland A.
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Stephen Moore, Peter Hynes and Mitchell
Chapman represented Australia in the
Under 21 World Cup where they lost in
the final to New Zealand. Peter Hynes
was also selected in the unofficial Under
21 World XV.
Unfortunately at the half way stage in the
season the Club lost the services of Ray
Talbot to a massive heart attack. Ray was
an energetic and hugely popular Red
Heavy supporter and employee, he is
fondly remembered.
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Nick Stiles, Peter Hynes and Rudi
Vedelago represented Australia A.
Some of the performances this season
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Richard Nyholt proudly represented the
Fiji national side during its European tour
and went on to play in the Rugby World
Cup.
The University of Queensland Rugby Club
appreciates greatly the contributions from
all sponsors. Once again Accenture were
the Club Principal Sponsor.
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Nathan Sharpe represented the Wallabies
with distinction in the Tri-Nations and
Rugby World Cup.
We started the season with a trip to Fiji to
the Marist Sevens tournament in Nadi and
although we didn’t perform at our best the
boys managed to turn the trip into one of
the most memorable of present times even being stranded on an island for three
days during a cyclone didn’t dampen their
spirits.
M a tt H e n j a k ( Vi k i n g s )
Representative Players
As a result of the improvements both on
and off-field
Premier home match
attendances improved hugely with over
2500 being recorded in matches against
Gold Coast and Canberra.
The open grades had a sprinkling of
success with the Friday night Wyatt Cup
boys going down in the preliminary final
as did third grade, first grade finished mid
field, premier just missed the finals and
second grade won the grand final to make
it two premierships for the club for season
2003 something no other club managed
this season. Congratulations goes to all
those associated with the premiership
wins.
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Premier Grade Coach and Director of
Rugby Andy Tucker was awarded the
Queensland Rugby Union Premier Coach
of the Year award as well as University of
Queensland Sports Coach of the Year
award.
The relationship with Kenmore Centenary
Bears was strengthened with University
players and coaches attending Kenmore
Friday night training sessions. University
also
introduced
sponsorship
opportunities, arranged representative
player attendance at functions and held
coaching clinics for Kenmore players.
R
Stephen Moore and Josh Graham were
awarded Half Blues by the University of
Queensland.
Fletcher Dyson missed a large part of the
season and a chance of a shot at the
Wallaby tight head jersey.
CE
This season saw many of the previous
season undefeated Colts 1 side graduate
to the senior grades and play with great
skill and determination.
31
Club Reports
were of extreme quality and the one that
comes to mind was the 62-7 win over
Easts in the Premier round where
performances by David Collis at half back,
Darren Murphy at openside flanker and
Alistair Boyd in the centres were
dominant all day but it was the best team
effort of the year.
The players mentioned have promising
futures and would make a statement at
the next level as would Anthony Pyers,
Damon Murphy, Dan Woolnough, Gerard
Leyden, Simon Reid and Zane Hilton given
the chance.
build on our base and goals set two
seasons ago and drive the club into the
finals in as many grades as possible.
Paul Mills
General Manager
As the year closes we are embarking on
another trip this time to Argentina to take
part in the Patagonia Cup under 23s being
held in Bahia Blancia in early December.
The boys have had several events staged
throughout the year to help raise much
needed funds to cover the expenses and
they would like to thank all those who
bought raffle tickets or offered
sponsorship dollars to the tour fund.
I thank Stephen Robins of Hitachi Data
Systems for their continued sponsorship
in 2003 and beyond as well as John
Hawkins of Westpoint Autos for his
support of the club.
I thank our Dr Peter Anderson, support
staff, players and coaches for the efforts.
The 2004 season is only months away and
with our very high retention of players it
appears that Brothers will continue to
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D a m i a n H o o ( We s t s )
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Congratulations go to our Reds players in
Elton Flatley, Sean Hardman, David Croft
and the recently retired Glenn Panoho. In
particular I thank Glenn for his efforts with
the younger players. Special mention
should be made of our Wallaby World Cup
representatives David Croft and vice
captain Elton Flatley. Glenn Panoho also
represented his country at the highest
level this season. Additionally three of our
Colts were selected in the Queensland
U19 team. These players were Jimmy
Maguire, Brett Muldoon and Sam Satui.
The club was also extremely pleased to
see the consistent performances of
Andrew Cox rewarded with his selection
in the Queensland A team.
32
Queensland
Suburban Rugby
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John Rossiter
President
The 2003 QSRU Representative Team
The QSRU representative team was once
again fortunate to obtain the services of a
first rate coaching team headed by Ron
Price.
The team trialled against
Queensland Country before the annual
Barraclough Shield clash against New
South Wales Suburban at Ballymore on
June 15 as a curtain raiser to the
Queensland Reds v Samoa clash. The
game was played in a typically torrid pace
with Queensland starting well and holding
a narrow half-time lead. However NSW
came home with an absolute roar in the
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Ipswich and Logan City Rugby Union
Clubs once again played in Division 1 with
encouraging results. Logan City’s 1st
grade team ended up 5th on the
competition ladder while Ipswich came
It is imperative that sustained efforts are
made to expand the Brisbane club rugby
competition as we leave the Rugby World
Cup year behind.
A QSRU colts
representative team assembly is planned
for 2004 as part of the transition program.
This is seen as a very progressive move
as assist clubs affiliated through Suburban
to attract school leavers to their ranks.
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The 2003 season saw another change to
our competition format with the complete
divisionalisation of all grades.
The
competition format changes provided a
more structured and tiered competition
capable of adapting to the specific needs
of our club base as it was designed
around player depth and strength. The
new format allowed suburban clubs to
enter a competition based on team
numbers and which subsequently allowed
grades within those clubs to play together
at the same venue each week.
In 2003 the QSRU Management
Committee provided representation for a
total of 62 teams, an overall increase of
16. The number of registered players
within our Queensland Suburban is well in
excess of 1100. The standard of rugby
observed during the 2003 final series and
the large crowds at Ballymore were easily
the best seen in many years and all clubs,
players and officials should be
congratulated accordingly.
n
A steady growth in Queensland Suburban
participation numbers was experienced
again in 2003 following similar increases
over the previous two years. This growth
can be attributed to factors such as the
emergence of players from the
developing Suburban Club junior ranks
and the increased profile of rugby.
However, over recent years the growth
has been more likely as a direct result of
the provision of a competition structure
which meets the divergent needs of our
member clubs and associated players.
n
Georgiou, Mr Robert Donaghue.
a
Wilson, Mr Jeff McLean, Mr Andrew
3
Management Committee: Mr Mike
The 2003 season saw the emergence of
Browns Plains as a new Queensland
Suburban club. We saw the return of
Redlands from the Gold Coast
competition and Murrumba (previously
Caboolture) were also welcomed back to
the Suburban fold after a couple of years
in the Sunshine Coast competition. There
was also a record number of clubs that
were able to increase their team
nominations from the 2002 season.
0
Treasurer: Mr Noel Rafter
0
Secretary: Mr Rick Packer
The increasing junior rugby player base
and the heightened enthusiasm for
participation in rugby will necessitate a
viable yet flexible competition structure to
cater for the needs of additional teams
requiring access to varying standards of
competition. While the main focus will be
to cater for multi-team clubs, equal
opportunity must exist for single
corporate or social teams based on
groups of corporate or other workmates,
the old school tie or just a group of blokes
with a common desire to play rugby.
2
President: Mr John Rossiter
y
Chairman: Mr Robin Thomson
The QSRU Outlook for 2004
b
Patron: Mr Paul McLean
closing stages to run out 41-21 winners.
a
home with a charge, winning three of its
last four games to finish 9th. Both clubs
have indicated a number of positives were
derived from the 2003 season and are
committed to establishing a future at this
level of competition.
OFFICE BEARERS 2003:
DIVISION
TROPHY
PREMIERS
RUNNERS-UP
1st Grade
2nd Grade
J. Barber Cup
G.R. Pegg Cup
Black Rhino’s
Murrumba
West Moreton
Wynnum
3rd Div
I. Scotney Cup
University
Beenleigh
4th Div
G. Wyatt Cup
Medicals
Kenmore
5th Div
Normanby Cup
OC/Redlands
Easts 2
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2nd Div
33
2003 has been a chaotic year, with
country facing many new changes. I
would start by thanking my committee
and the Community Rugby department for
their dedication, hard work and
enthusiasm. All have contributed. We
have achieved much in the promotion,
growth and administration of Rugby in the
Country during 2003.
t
Rugby have faced a number of challenges
this year and the board has been fortunate
to have worked with Jeff Miller who prior
to his departure to coaching duties, had
been most successful in his roll of CEO.
We wish him every success with the
Reds in 2004.
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High on the priority of issues faced has
been constitutional reform.
A sub
committee under the guidance of Tom
McVeigh will present to the council a
paper for consideration and discussion at
the AGM. It’s vital that the delegates
carefully consider the proposal and
provide feedback.
The Heelers’ outstanding effort in
defeating the New South Wales
Cockatoos and reaching the final at the
Australian Rugby Shield reflects the
professionalism and sheer hard work
undertaken by Peter Bromley and his
team.
The Administration Officers program (full
time) has been in place for 12 months and
while we are enthusiastic about
continuing the program we will put into
place checks and stipulations to ensure
we maximise the outcomes of AO’s roles.
Luke Wyatt will assist in this process as an
educational officer in 2004.
The Country championship was reduced
to one round in 2003 and at the half yearly
meeting in August delegates clearly
articulated that this move was not well
received. Efforts will be made to revert to
a two round format with a final next year.
We warmly welcome Wesfarmers
Landmark as our major sponsor 2003/4
and thank them for their support.
Three years ago I stood before the council
of delegates and stressed the need for
country to meet the challenges ahead.
2004 will see the introduction of many
new initiatives in the wake of the Rugby
World Cup and Country will need to be
prepared.
Our transitional program for U/19s has
been a success. We will continue the
program in 2004 and our experience in
costing the program should enable us to
help extend the country championships to
two rounds.
I congratulate to the
coaches, managers and players in the
program this year - John Faithful, Tom
Moore, David Morgan, Tim Murray, Rob
Nowlan, Garth Caswell.
Peter Moore
Chairman
Damian Hearne has completed the final
format and program for the Regional
Academies which will be operating from
early January in Townsville, Rockhampton,
Darling Downs and Sunshine Coast. This
is an exciting initiative which we envisage
will see 100 juniors aged 15-19 receive the
latest coaching, sports science, sports
medicine, and logistic support based on
Energex Reds Rugby College principles
but developed for regional areas.
There will be a close relationship between
the Transitional U/19 sides and the
Regional Academies and it is envisaged
coaches and referees will be included in
the programme in the future. Transitional
coaches John Faithful and Rob Nowlan
will be completing their level III this year.
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The Rugby World Cup success has placed
Rugby in a position we may never see
again. Let’s all ensure we make the most
of it in helping to grow, and develop the
game. Its success has highlighted the
issue of Suncorp Stadium and the future
of Ballymore. The Board will need to
carefully consider its options. With the
financial rewards of the World Cup soon to
be posted the question of a national
competition will be raised. Its format will
require serious consideration from all the
stakeholders including country. Whilst
discussing World Cup success let me
congratulate Townsville for their efforts in
staging their games. Almost 60,000
spectators attended three games in a city
boasting a population of just 170,000.
Pe t e r M o o r e
Queensland Country
Rugby Union
AUSTRALIAN RUGBY SHIELD 2003
Score Break Up
Win
Draw
4 x Tries
a
Perth
5
5
0
4
0
29
14
3
0
187
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NSW Country
5
3
0
4
1
23
14
3
0
s
QLD Country
5
3
0
2
1
17
11
9
0
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Melbourne
5
2
0
2
1
16
8
4
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Adelaide
5
2
0
0
2
8
6
Darwin
5
0
0
1
1
12
10
q
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Played
e
d
Competition Points
34
Lose (-7) Try
Con Pen
F/Goal
Pts/For Pts/Ag
Margin
Points
65
122
24
152
99
53
17
134
140
-6
15
0
108
147
-39
11
12
0
88
123
-35
10
3
0
89
179
-90
2
WESFARMERS LANDMARK COUNTRY CHAMPIONSHIPS
26
18
37
53
16
25
Bundaberg
Western Qld
Bundaberg
Western Qld
Mt Isa
Western Qld
14
0
5
5
8
10
Wesfarmers Landmark Central Division Champions – Central Highlands
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Central Highlands
Mt Isa
Mt Isa
Central Highlands
Central Highlands
Bundaberg
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Open Division
Pe t e r B r o m l ey ( H e e l e r s’ c o a ch )
CENTRAL DIVISION RESULTS
o
NORTHERN DIVISION RESULTS
Cairns
Townsville
Cairns
Rockhampton
Townsville
Rockhampton
26
10
45
17
15
22
Rockhampton
Mackay
Mackay
Townsville
Cairns
Mackay
5
0
11
14
12
12
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Under 19
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Wesfarmers Landmark Northern Division Champions - Cairns
3
17
13
5
8
10
13
0
Rockhampton
Mackay
Mackay
Townsville
Townsville
Rockhampton
0
25
29
34
15
24
14
Bo b Wo o d ( H e e l e r s’ a s s i s t a n t c o a ch )
Cairns
Townsville
Cairns
Rockhampton
Cairns
Mackay
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Open Division
2
Wesfarmers Landmark Northern Division Champions - Cairns
Gold Coast
Sunshine Coast
Gold Coast
0
10
7
Wesfarmers Landmark Southern Division Champions – Darling Downs
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48
20
59
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Sunshine Coast
Darling Downs
Darling Downs
s
Under 19
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Wesfarmers Landmark Southern Division Champions – Darling Downs
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16
22
23
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Sunshine Coast
Sunshine Coast
Darling Downs
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16
33
24
q
Gold Coast
Darling Downs
Gold Coast
D av i d N i ch o l s o n ( Q C RU Tr e a s u r e r a n d H e e l e r s’ M a n a g e r )
Open Division
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SOUTHERN DIVISION RESULTS
35
Queensland Country
Rugby Union
BUNDABERG AND DISTRICT
Competitions
All four clubs entered teams and, for the
first time, both East Coast Buccaneers
and CQ University entered under 18
teams in the Betta Electrical Sevens
Carnival. The A Grade trophy to Wests
Barbarians, East Coast Buccaneers took
out under 18 final.
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The Channel Seven Shield ten-a-side
competition was run over four weeks.
Barbarians unexpectedly ran out winners
over Buccaneers to claim their second
trophy of the season.
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The Under 18 Hitz-Fm trophy was run in
conjunction with the A Grade Channel 7
Shield. Three teams competed in the 10-aside format. CQ University fielded two
teams, Uni Blue and Uni Green, along
with Buccaneers. The trophy won by
Buccaneers.
2
0
0
3
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The 15-a-side News-Mail Cup was run
over 12 weeks plus finals. All four teams
were close initially, with Isis Internationals
the big improvers. The final in August was
played in miserably wet conditions
between East Coast Buccaneers and
Wests Barbarians. Buccaneers had
finished as minor premiers, and as such
enjoyed home ground advantage at
Bargara and went on to claim the NewsMail Cup for the second year in a row.
Buccaneers also claimed the under 18
premiership trophy.
Representative Fixtures
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The Bundaberg Rum Rebels hosted
Central Highlands in the first round of the
Country Championships, and despite
home ground advantage, Central
Highlands ran out winners. The May Day
weekend saw the Rebels travel to
Longreach, where they came away with a
loss to Mt. Isa, and a win over Western
Queensland.
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Bundaberg hosted an Australian Rugby
Shield game in July between the Heelers
and the Melbourne Axemen. The
Bundaberg Representative team, the
Rum Rebels, also had another hitout
playing the curtain raiser against NSW
Country Under 20. Heelers and NSW
Country were winners on the day. Other
games on the day were Under 18
36
Bundaberg V Gladstone, and Bundaberg
Barbarians Women V Rockhampton Colts
Women.
The Bundaberg Barbarians Women team
are new to the BDRU, and enjoyed some
success in the Central Queensland
competition.
The Bundaberg Hitz FM Warriors (Under
18) acquitted themselves well against
both the Sunshine Coast and Central
Queensland Under 18 Development
Squads.
Positive Outcomes
We were pleased to maintain the four
team A Grade competition, with an overall
increase in player registrations. Two under
18 teams and an open women’s team
were established. The aim is to grow our
player base with five A Grade teams, four
under 18 teams and four under 16 teams
in 2004.
Bundaberg entered its first ever team in
Country Championship and enjoyed good
crowds at all club fixtures.
Michael West
President
DARLING DOWNS
After many years in the doldrums on the
Darling Downs, the last two years have
seen fantastic growth to the point that
2003 has been our strongest year in all
facets across the Downs.
Highlights include a 10% increase in
junior/senior
numbers,
a
close
competition, nine senior players in the
very successful QCRU Heelers squad and
a very successful and talented Under 19
team emerged, providing 14 players to the
South Queensland Team.
The big winners on the Downs were the
clubs and the Rugby supporters. Interest
was high, competition was close, Rugby
on the Downs was talked about, and as a
result two clubs which have traditionally
struggled, Roma and St George emerged
as A grade contenders. I congratulate
University
on
their
outstanding
achievement in winning all three grades,
becoming the first club in history to
complete a clean sweep.
The only disappointment was the inability
to attract a visit of the True Colours Tour, to
celebrate the staging of the 2003 Rugby
World Cup. This was disappointing to say
the least, especially when it is taken into
account the numerous hours put in by
thousands of volunteers on the Downs
over the years.
I have had three very stimulating years as
president and am pleased with the
achievements in that time.
Michael F. Coorey
President
GOLD COAST & DISTRICT
The 2003 Gold Coast Rugby season
started in October 2002 with the
appointment of a new look Management
Committee. It encompassed a range of
skilled individuals issues to consolidate
and move the GCDRU forward throughout
2003. A number of issues needing
primary focus included the key aspects of
financial, constitutional and administrative
upgrades that were highlighted as being
paramount to Gold Coast & District Rugby
Union’s future direction.
The move of the GCDRU Headquarters to
the combined Surfers Paradise and
Breakers Rugby Union Club’s facility
allowed for a refocus on rugby
administration, while offering similar
benefits in office area in addition to a
multipurpose meeting venue and closer
communications to the Gold Coast
Breakers. Another major initiative was the
implementation
of
an
upgraded
Administrative Officer to Operations
Manager for a 12-month trial period with
the appointment of Tony Pease. This
position was based on a revised job
description upgrading the current AO’s
role and received much appreciated input
from the Queensland Rugby Union. This
also coincided with the QRU’s confirming
funding for a second Development
Officer. The Operations Manager was the
largest of the commitments for 2003,
with the Breakers agreeing to the first
$22,000.00 of net profit from the RedsAuckland match being dedicated to
funding this position. The role held a range
of specific and targeted objectives
Grand final: Palm Beach Currumbin 12 d
Colleges 3
Preliminary Final: Colleges 64 d Surfers
Paradise 21
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Major Semi-final: Palm Beach Currumbin
22 d Colleges 8
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Minor Semi-final: Surfers Paradise 19 d
Nerang 11
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SECOND GRADE:
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Palm Beach Currumbin 23 d Bond Pirates 0
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THIRD GRADE:
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Colleges 17 d Palm Beach Currumbin 5
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The GCDRU Colts played in the NSW Far
North Coast competition with Colleges,
under Coach Steve Nicholson, winning the
competition 23-17 against Wollongbar at
Mullumbimby. A great effort considering
the travelling involved. Both Heath
Claydon and Grant Anderson have
instigated a program that will see the
Colts competition grow to at least six
GCDRU teams in 2004, with the Far North
Coast association reverting to possibly a
pre-season competition.
a
The 2003 GCDRU season once again
proved to be one of the closest fought out
competitions that we have experienced.
With Redlands Rugby Union Club
returning to the Brisbane Club
competition at the beginning of the
season we returned to a traditional 8
clubs, 3 round structure with a top 4 final
format.
FIRST GRADE:
3
A range of additional achievements
include extending relations with the Gold
Coast Breakers, increasing income
opportunities to both the GCDRU and its
stakeholders through the Reds-Auckland
Match
and
sponsorship
through
McDonalds and Trendwest. Closer ties
At the beginning of the season GCDRU
hosted Reds versus Auckland Blues,
which was a tremendous success with
approximately 9500 people attending this
mid week game. Having two local boys
make their debuts at Carrara Stadium for
the Q Reds (Tai McIsaac & Luke Caughley)
against the Blues was a significant
highlight for the Gold Coast Rugby
community.
Results
0
Huge inroads in implementing proper
governance in the GCDRU’s financial
management were achieved this year and
specific mention must go to Mr. Kerry
O’Carroll as Treasurer. The new GCDRU
constitution after years of reference and
discussion was implemented.
Junior numbers have continued to climb
from what was only a few years ago a
difficult project. It cannot be understated
the importance of programs to support
our Junior Clubs and their committees.
Palm Beach Currumbin dominated the
season, winning the first grade, second
grade and Club Championship. This was
their third consecutive first grade
championship win.
0
Our Development Officers have shown
exceptional dedication growing the game.
With the limited funding available for
these positions, both Heath Claydon and
Grant Anderson have been involved in the
organising of Coaching Clinics, Gala Days,
Junior Carnivals, Sign-On Days and
Invasion Games and to generally educate
Gold Coast kids with the message that
Rugby Union is a fun and an enjoyable
game for everyone play. They provide a
service that could be used and supported
a great deal more by both our Junior and
Senior Clubs into the future.
have now also been established with the
Gold Coast Referees’ Association. We also
implemented initiatives to support our
Development Officers and their schools
programs through a Development CD.
This program was implemented with a
very minimal outlay due to sponsorship
from the Breakers, Telstra Country Wide
and the Mermaid Beach Tavern and was
endorsed by QRU and supported by ARU.
2
including increased communications
between
the
Administration/
Management Committee and all clubs,
while also covering areas such as
financial, administration, operations,
development officer support.
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The first grade representative team
excelled under the guidance of Brad
Green, achieving a draw with Sunshine
Coast and a win over Darling Downs.
d
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The GCDRU was well represented with
the following Cyclones Players in
Queensland Country Squad 2003.
n
Andy Kirk - Helensvale
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Dave Nolan - Bond
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John Kupa - PBC
n
s
Ray Fidow - Colleges
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Matt Hannay - Helensvale
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Ben Jermanus (trials/shadow squad) Tweed
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G o l d C o a s t w i n g e r A n d y K i r k fe n d s o ff a Pe r t h d e fe n d e r i n t h e A RS c l a s h
37
Queensland Country
Rugby Union
Josh Deane-Freeman (trials/shadow
squad) - Colleges
Nick Ngatai (shadow squad) - Colleges
Mark Hourston (shadow squad) - Bond
The work initiated 2003 management
committee has given the Gold Coast &
District Rugby Union a firm base to now
grow further and we wish all members of
the new Management Committee for
2004 every success in their endeavours.
MACKAY AND DISTRICT
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In January 2003 the MDRU employed a
Trainee Club Officer under Sport and
Recreation Apprenticeship Funding. Our
new trainee was responsible for the day
to day clubhouse operations and
bookkeeping role. A great season launch
was held at Pacinos the Waterfront with
Elton Flatley was in attendance, as part of
the Reds players’ visit.
Our final series included a plate series,
which meant all eight sides participated in
the big end of year games. Grand Final
day included a Under 19 match between
Mackay and Norths-QUT, won by Mackay
and the David Bond Memorial Match. This
match commemorated David Bond’s
tremendous contributions in fostering
schools rugby in Mackay and we were
fortunate that David’s window, Sharon,
was on hand to present the Shield to
Mackay High who defeated Mackay North
State High.
Mackay City was crowned the Cup
Premiers defeating Bowen in the grand
final. Brothers won the ‘Plate’ Series
defeating Glenden in the final.
Our senior representative team gave a
much-improved
showing
in
the
‘Wesfarmers
Landmark’
Country
Championships and recorded a win
against Rockhampton.
The construction of the third playing field
is well underway and our continued joint
development arrangements with Mackay
Christian College augur well for the
Quarry Hill Complex.
A most successful awards night was
attended by Jeff Miller, Paul McLean and
Michael O’Connor where the inaugural
Dean Garnett Medal was awarded to
Adrian West of Bowen as Mackay’s Player
of the Year. The evening was attended by
all affiliates as well as secondary schools
rugby representatives.
Our Juniors and Schools are experiencing
continued growth and with the expected
flow-on from the 2003 World Cup we are
hopeful for an even more successful
2004.
MOUNT ISA
The second hosting of the Mount Isa
Rugby Union (MIRU) summer season
progressed smoothly until the final stages
when one of the three clubs voiced
concerns over player numbers. MIRU had
little choice but to shorten the season by
four weeks and host the grand final on
Saturday, March 22. The final was won by
minor premier Keas 25-19 over defending
premier Warrigals.
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2
0
0
3
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The structure of our Senior competition
was reviewed. This resulted in the
amalgamation of ‘A’ grade and Reserve
grade into a single open grade
competition of 8 teams. This saw the
return to our competition of the Glenden
Gladiators. The decision to revamp the ‘A’
Grade competition was vindicated with a
notable improvement in the standard of
play. Games were more competitive and
attracted better crowds. This in turn,
resulted in improved gate and bar takings.
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S u n s h i n e C o a s t h a l f b a ck M a r k M a r t i n c l e a r s o u t f r o m t h e s c ru m d u r i n g t h e A RS f i n a l a g a i n s t a g a i n s t Pe r t h
38
Continuing country rugby is the aim of my
executive committee but to run it without
accredited personnel can only raise the
liability bar higher. MIRU does not seek
help too often but to continue, these are
the areas where help is needed.
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Players of the Grand Final awards
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• State Titles - Sunshine Coast Open
Schoolboys won the Queensland Open
Schoolboys titles held at Noosa. Six
Sunshine Coast players were later
chosen to represent the two
Queensland Combined Secondary
Schools teams.
o
A Grade: Tony Harmer (Noosa)
Participation Numbers:
e
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Reserve Grade: Charlie McIntyre
(Nambour)
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Under 19s: Sam Forrest (Noosa)
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Referees’ Best & Fairest for the Year
A Grade: Anthony Thomas (Noosa)
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2003 witnessed further spectacular
growth rates in both Junior and School
player participation. The increases
reflected an overall 454 additional players
(17%), Juniors 124 (14%) and Schools 380
(34%). The strength of the player base is
revealed in the table below -
n
Reserve Grade: Hamish Rice
(Maroochydore)
n
There were also 21 other schools active in
a Primary School competition.
Category
Clubs/
Schools
8
9
(Secondary) 22
39
Teams
Players
18
78
56*
152
626
1035
1500
3161
SUNSHINE COAST & DISTRICTS
* Does not include an additional six Secondary Schools
which competed in the Ballymore Cup competition and
13 schoolgirl teams.
a
3
0
0
Mark Martin (Noosa) and Luke Morse
(Caloundra) won the Breakers Best &
Fairest Awards in Opens and Under 19
Colts respectively in the southern division
of
the
Queensland
Country
Championships for 2003.
Sunshine Coast was very proud to host
the Reds and also the New Zealand
schoolboys during the season.
Future Development
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Glenn Faulkner
President
Senior
Junior
School
Total
2
Noosa
again
secured
the
Club
Championship by finishing Minor
Premiers in As and second in both
Reserves and Under 19s. Maroochydore
were Minor Premiers in Bs while
Caloundra finished as Minor Premiers in
Under 19s.
“The Spirit of Rugby Award” was
presented to Anthony Morrison (President
Kawana club) for his tireless efforts over
two years in holding the club together
while at the same time steering the club
towards what is hoped to be the creation
of a Junior division.
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Local Senior Results
Under 19s: Jonathan Brown (Caloundra)
b
In terms of planning from Year 2002, new
Junior clubs Mooloolaba/Mountain Creek
and St Andrews Anglican College joined
the local competitions in 2003.
g
The sub-union still suffers with officials
gaining accreditation in coaching and
refereeing. There is only one Level 2 coach
and referee in the sub-union.
• Queensland Country Heelers - Guy
Constable, Mark Martin, Chris
Massoud, Benny Walker (Noosa);
Michael Vidulich (Kawana); Brad Hunt,
Rohan
Welsh
(Maroochydore);
Manager - David Nicholson.
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MIRU sought and was successful in luring
Cloncurry back into the 2003-04 summer
season and with a four-team competition,
I am hopeful that many financial gaps will
be filled. Already the competition is under
way with positive feedback from players
and spectators. To host a competition with
a poor standard, MIRU would not have
gained any benefit from Australia hosting
the Rugby World Cup.
Representative Honour Board:
make it three out of three when their
Reserve Grade team went down to
Nambour. Noosa’s A grade won for the
fifth year on the trot (the second time in
their history they have achieved that
amazing feat) while the Under 19s won its
second in a row. The ‘A’s, playing a 17th
straight grand final for 11 victories,
became Premiers by defeating Caloundra
28-16 in what was Caloundra’s return to
the Grand Final after last appearing in the
event in 1985. Nambour’s Reserve Grade
sprang the upset of the day when they
defeated Noosa 29-19. The Noosa Under
19s outlasted Maroochydore 30-28 in an
extremely exciting match.
r
The three codes have more work to do to
make Rugby Park a multi-purpose facility
and the accessing of State Government or
gaming fund grants will only quicken the
process.
Campbell
d
MIRU was fortunate to hire its Rugby Park
facilities to soccer and Aussie rules during
the winter months at a weekly hire fee.
This fee was split three ways and the
success of that has meant MIRU starts
this season in a far better financial
position.
Tom
n
On an administrative front, the sub-union
worked hard to make ends meet with
dying crowds affecting gate and bar sales.
Hosting just the one match each Saturday
did not justify an admission fee and the
crowds did not work the bar as hard as
required.
Tudman (Secretary);
(Treasurer).
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Lack of playing adult males again took its
toll on the three-team competition and
MIRU has worked hard to rectify that
situation as it heads into the 2003-2004
summer season.
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Noosa went on to win both the As &
Under 19s grand frinals but could not
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Executive Committee: Michael Hurley
(President); Geoff McNamara/Greg Dodd
(Vice
President/Treasurer);
Michael
Growth through the Development Officer
programs will remain at the forefront of
initiatives during 2004 with a new Junior
club planned for Kawana then further
preliminary planning for Junior clubs in
2005 and 2006 in the Cooroy, Beerwah,
39
Queensland Country
Rugby Union
and Landsborough areas.
The continuing battle for recruitment at
the Under 19 transition Rugby level will
once again be fought in earnest.
Feasibility studies are now underway for
entry into higher level competition such as
Premier Rugby as opportunities become
available.
Russell Sheil
General Manager
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WESTERN QUEENSLAND RUGBY
UNION
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Western Queensland rugby was shaken
by the death of Rodney Button, a stalwart
of WQ over many years and a regular in its
representative team. He captained WQ in
both 2002 and 2003. His tragic death in an
ultra light aircraft accident cast a long
shadow over the remainder of the season,
and in particular on grand final day, where
he would have led Collegians on to the
field for the decider against Barcaldine.
Barcaldine recorded a 7-5 win courtesy of
some excellent second half defence.
Grand final day also featured junior games
and a women’s game between Longreach
and Barcaldine, the former winning 32-5.
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TOWNSVILLE AND
RUGBY UNION
Queensland Country Heelers in 2003
were Bill Solofa, Matt Buchanan, Pat
Soper, and John Moore (Brothers Club)
and Gil Griffiths (Teachers-West).
DISTRICT
The Townsville region has hosted a feast
of representative football this year with
Japan v Queensland A at Dairy Farmers
Stadium and later in the year Japan High
Schools v North Queensland High Schools
played at Hugh Street.
The 2003 Brolga Player of the Year was Pat
Soper. This is the second year that Pat has
won this award. The 2003 Brolga Under
19s Player of the Year was Simon
Ishmal-Brimrose
RESULTS
Minor Premiers
A Grade:
Teachers-West
Brothers
Reserve Grade:
Brothers
Brothers
Women:
Teachers-West &
University (shared)
Teachers-West
Under 19:
University
Ross River
Redskins
Under 17:
Teachers-West
Townsville
Grammar School
WQ’s future is based on the development
of both the women’s and juniors’
programs and the continued support of
the QCRU and QRU is essential. The
presence of the women on match days
throughout the season added greatly to
the atmosphere of such occasions and
significantly increased the attendance.
Under 15:
Brothers
Townsville
Grammar School
Under 13:
Townsville
Grammar School
Townsville
Grammar School
It was a disappointing year for the WQ
representative team, which lost all three
of its matches in the country
championships. WQ played well in the
away game to Mount Isa but could not
match that form the following weekend
BP Best and Fairest Player of the Year:
A Grade:
Christian Lago (Burdekin)
Under 19: Ben Abbott (Burdekin)
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The WQRU had a sound financial year and
continues to improve on many fronts
thanks to the continued efforts of many
volunteers.
Club Championships:
Seniors Division:
Brothers
Juniors Division:
Townsville Grammar School
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The northern division carnival of the
Queensland Country competition was
played in Townsville. This form of
competition is not conducive to producing
quality rugby nor to encouraging player
participation. It is a goal of the Townsville
and District Rugby Union to participate in
the best possible competition available
and to make representative rugby a
challenge and enjoyable experience for
the participants. My thanks go to Mick
Smith coach of the A Grade side and to
the Under 19 coaches John Faithful and
Lachlan Bell and to the players who
participated in the Brolgas teams. Mick
Smith’s coaching record of 23 consecutive
home game wins will take quite a while to
be surpassed.
Premiers
The formation of a junior program based
on Longreach was the most significant
step for WQ in 2003 and indeed for many
years. Some 100 junior players were
signed up in this first year and their
enthusiasm and rapid improvement in
skills was due in no small part to a
dedicated band of parents cum coaches. It
is hoped to expand the junior program into
Barcaldine in 2004.
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against Central Highlands and Bundaberg.
The WQRU believes that playing the
representative games so early in the
season is not in its interest. Temperatures
are still very high and most players have
barely begun training before they are
called upon to play the representative
games. The competition is then played but
there is no recognised representative
program in either the middle of the
season or at the end when our players
would be seen at their best.
Women:
Kellie Hammant
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President
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After nine years of touring North
Queensland with social rugby matches Di
Barton was able to participate in the
inaugural premiership of Women’s Rugby.
The foundation teams of the competition
were Brothers, Burdekin, James Cook
University and Teachers-West. The efforts
of Charters Towers in the formation of this
competition over the years are
acknowledged. Unfortunately the Bullets
were unable to field a team.
My thanks go to the committee: Dan
Morton (Senior Vice President), Craig
Stack (Vice President), Lisa Faithful
(Secretary),
Doug
Cunningham
(Treasurer), Lachlan Bell (Publicity),
Anthony
Burke
(Grounds),
Chris
Gunthorpe (Development) and Alan Hunt
(Matches and Grades) and Col Bamblett
for their efforts and time during what has
been an very busy year for Brolga Rugby.
r
This year three Townsville secondary
schools, Townsville Grammar School,
Ignatius Park College, and The Cathedral
School have taken teams on overseas
tours to play matches in England, Ireland,
Scotland, and Italy. These tours reflect the
positive attitude to development within
the local rugby community.
This year the committee has been able to
purchase the freehold title to the Hugh
Street property. This will secure the
investment made in the facilities over the
past twenty five years and provides a
platform from which the development of
rugby may continue.
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Queensland
School
Boys
Representatives:
Brendan
Bunyan
(Burdekin Catholic High School), Chris
Essery (Northern Beaches)
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Q u e e n s l a n d C o u n t r y a ft e r t h e A RS f i n a l i n Pe r t h .
41
Queensland Country
Rugby Union
CAIRNS & DISTRICT
First Grade
Premiers – Brothers (defeated Wanderers)
Minor Premiers – Brothers
Teams – Barron Trinity, Brothers, Cities,
Port Douglas, UTS, Wanderers
Womens
Premiers – Brothers (defeated Cities)
Minor Premiers – Brothers
Teams – Brothers, Cities, Wanderers
Heelers Squad
Jason Ramsamy, Shane Collins
Heelers Shadow Squad – Fred Suavai,
Jason Harrington
U/19s Country
David Brooks, Evaness Hollingworth,
Michael Santon, Selwyn Tupou, Ben Agar,
BJ Sabardi, David McIntosh, Adam
Shepherd, Tanu Wulf, Colin Warren
2003 saw the CDRU depart its traditional
ground of Buchan Street and relocate to
the multi-sport facility at Barlow Park.
Because of the late completion of the
grandstand, temporary facilities had to be
used for much of the year and all clubs,
and especially the Old Crocs, are to be
commended for their patience and cooperation during this period. However, we
now have excellent facilities and in 2004
we will have a second field and training
area.
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Reserve Grade
Premiers – Barron Trinity (defeated Brothers)
Minor Premiers – Barron Trinity
Teams – Barron Trinity, Brothers, Cities,
Hilanders, Innisfail, UTS, Wanderers
On the representative scene, the Cairns
Thunder had its best year ever, with
success in the Opens and Under 19. The
respective coaches, Rob Morgan and
David Morgan, are to be congratulated
together with all the team, especially the
captain Jason Ramsamy and Shane
Collins who made the Country Heelers
side. Ten U/19 players who made the
country squad.
On the club scene, Brothers won their
fourth Open Premiership in a row and
Barron Trinity were reserve grade
premiers. UTS were club champions and
Port Douglas in their second year in A
Grade made the final.
A new addition was the Women’s
Competition and in an exciting final,
Brothers scored a length of the field try on
the bell to defeat Cities.
The Junior competition continues to grow
in stature with more teams and age
groups being added. Development Officer
Mark Alberighi has commenced with the
CDRU and the future looks promising for
the juniors, with hopes of having an U/14
and U/16 representative sides in 2004.
Finally, I would like to thank Maureen
Oakley, our administration officer for
operating in temporary facilities for half
the season and Graeme Cann for his
efforts as match day co-ordinator. Michael
Woodward has once again combined the
Treasurer and Secretary roles and also
Robert Brennan has co-ordinated the
referee appointments for the year.
It has been a very good initiative of
Australian Rugby Union and Queensland
Rugby Union to recognise volunteers
throughout Australia. Lisa Rapira is a great
rugby stalwart for both Wanderers Club
and Juniors, and was flown to Brisbane to
enjoy the corporate hospitality at the
Springboks v Wallabies clash. It is great to
see this recognition of the importance of
volunteers.
I
thank
our
major
sponsors
Rainforestation and Tropic Wings Coach
Tours and look forward to the increased
interest in rugby that is being engendered
by the Rugby World Cup.
Charles Woodward
President
CDRU
ROCKHAMPTON & DISTRICT
Another highlight was the match against
the British Army, who had already beaten
the New Zealand Army. In an exciting
match the Thunder were leading
throughout and were only beaten in the
final five minutes.
2003 has been another good year for
Rockhampton & District Rugby Union
(RDRU). As well as a solid senior
competition we have seen good numbers
in pathways and a significantly improved
school competition.
Our year started with a visit from Reds
players Scott Barton, Steven Moore and
Toutai Kefu. The main topic of
conservation was of course the Rugby
World Cup with Toutai very confident of
Australia’s chances.
On the representative front we performed
below our best with losses to Cairns and
Mackay. However a win over Townsville at
Hugh Street was a highlight. Our Under 19
team was very competitive and
performed well. We had five players
selected in the Queensland Country
Northern Division u/19 team where they
gained valuable experience.
On the local club scene we had good year
with an excellent final series highlighted
by a large crowd at the grand final. In A
grade we saw Dawson Valley defeat
Frenchville Pioneers to retain their title as
premiers. Our Sub Districts competition
saw Capricorn Coast have a hard fought
win over minor premiers Mount Morgan.
Reserve Grade resulted in a win by
Brothers over Colts in extra time. Our u/19
grand final saw a very powerful Brothers
team defeat University.
Congratulations go to all our premiership
winning teams and to Brothers for
winning the club championship. At an
individual level congratulations to Joel
Johnston for being selected for
Queensland Country and for Australian
Universities.
On the development front we have nearly
completed a community jobs program at
Rugby Park. The results of this will be a
relocated and improved second field with
underground sprinkler system, fencing
around both fields, a new entrance to
Rugby Park, pathways and new seating for
our patrons. We express our appreciation
to the Queensland Government and the
Rockhampton City Council for their
support.
Queensland Rugby
Football Schools Union
In a remarkable year for Australian rugby
with the buzz and drama of the World Cup
and schoolboy rugby in Queensland has
flourished. From participation levels to the
performance of the Queensland teams at
the national championships held at
Churchie in July schoolboy rugby has had
a very successful year. This success was
celebrated in the final schoolboy fixture of
the year at Ballymore when the largest
schoolboy crowd for many seasons saw
Australia narrowly defeated by New
Zealand by 18 points to 16. The task for
next year is to build on this momentum
and to explore ways of improving on past
practices.
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OPEN REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS
QUEENSLAND SCHOOLBOY TRIALS
These trials were held at Ballymore and
Easts at the end of term 2 and pleasingly
all teams proved to be very competitive.
At the conclusion of the trials two
Queensland teams were selected to play
in the national championships during the
second week of the state school holidays.
I particularly thank Bill Newcombe and Phil
Muller for their organisation of these
trials.
NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS
The preparation time for the teams was
restricted due the proximity of the trials
but the coaching teams were helped in
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These championships were held at Noosa
in May and were successfully hosted by
the Sunshine Coast Region. Mark West
and Dave Glassock worked well as a team
to ensure all the details associated with
the championships were well organized.
The Noosa Rugby Club hosted the event
and all the club workers were most helpful
to all coaches, managers and staff. At the
conclusion of the championships
Sunshine Coast beat Metropolitan East in
very high standard game and for the first
time two CSS teams were selected for
the schoolboy trials.
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Australian Schoolboy Anton LaVin in action against New Zealand at Ballymore
42
their
preparation
by
the
QRU
Development
staff.
Before
the
championships started Drew Mitchell, a
former Queensland and Australian
Schoolboy player and presently an
Australian Under 21 player, presented the
players with their jerseys at the annual
presentation social for players and their
parents. Both the Queensland teams
were competitive with Queensland
recording some narrow losses to more
fancied opponents. In a game of two
halves Queensland 1 defeated NSW 1 in
the final by 39 points to 33. I thank Paul
Herbert, Keith Harron, David Meehan,
Murray Harley, Pat Richards and Rick
Saunders for their time in managing and
coaching the teams. This year they had the
added responsibility of living in with the
teams as well as giving up two weeks of
their holidays. I also acknowledge the
work of Keith Harron who as Queensland
1 coach has won two national
championships. Keith’s skills as a coach
and his ability to work successfully with
older adolescents contributed to this
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• Members of the QRFSU Executive
especially Bill Newcombe and John
Brew
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• The QRU Club for their generous
financial support
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• All staff who helped with the selection,
preparation and participation of teams
in regional state and national teams
D. Barker
Chairman QRFSU
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3 The QRFSU has a role in the processes
that identify talent for the Reds College
and the Reds. There is much to suggest
that the premature identification of
talent hastens the exodus of young
players from the game and perhaps
does little to improve the performance
of the Reds or any other professional
outfit. This is a delicate balance and
needs careful monitoring.
• The QRU for their significant financial
and development support especially
through the efforts of Jason Gilmore
and Sean Hedger
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2. Further work needs to be done in
detailing the role of the delegates as
the changes to the QRFSU committee
structure take place. The need for these
delegates to represent the interests of
all schools in a region has to be taken
on board. It is a concern that some
delegates rarely attend meetings and
effective communication is at the heart
of this exercise.
• Phil Muller for his assistance in many
ways during the season
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4. Thought should be given to ways of
improving the skills and abilities of
school coaches, managers and
organisers through processes such as
conferences that focus on the needs of
school rugby. The potential for schools
rugby to be innovative and creative in
terms of research and development has
unknown possibilities as strong ties
develop with the QUT Centre for Rugby
Studies.
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For the first time in many years
Queensland hosted the entire New
Zealand tour culminating in an outstanding
test match at Ballymore won very
narrowly by the New Zealanders. The first
game of the tour was played at Noosa
against a Queensland Selection as no
Australian or Australian A players could be
selected in a most competitive game the
New Zealanders won 43-8. The second
game was played at The Southport School
against Australia A and again the New
Zealanders won 38 to 5. I thank the
following people for their great assistance
with the organisation of this tour
especially with the billeting of the New
Zealand players: Steve Chapman and the
Noosa rugby community; Bryan Hain and
The Southport School community; Dean
Patterson and the Terrace community and
Peter Murdoch for being the team liaison
officer. I also congratulate the following
players on their selection in Australian
teams which played Tonga, Fiji and New
Zealand: Geoff Abram, Matt Brandon,
Liam Bibo, Shaun Boyd, Dominic Fuller,
1 The positive partnership agreement
between the QRU and the QRFSU
needs further nurturing in specific areas
relating to selection of representative
teams, appointment of coaches and the
management
of
the
various
championships
• All the Regional Sports Officers for their
support in the selection and
participation of the regional teams at
both the Open and Under 15 levels
especially Mark West (Sunshine Coast)
and Marion Higman (Metropolitan
West)
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NEW ZEALAND SCHOOLBOY TOUR
With these two priorities in mind
continued discussion and policy need to
occur in the following areas
• All the championship convenors for the
work they did in planning and running
the various schoolboy championships
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UNDER 15 CHAMPIONSHIPS
The Under 15 Championships were held
at St Peter’s Lutheran College in August
and were excellently organized by Marion
Higman and Darren Kayrooz. The quality of
football was of a very high standard and
the performance of the country regions
was generally of a good quality given the
competitiveness of the South East
Queensland based regions. In an excellent
final Met East defeated Met North by 11
points to 3. At the conclusion of the
championships some 46 players were
identified by the Reds College staff to be
part of a development program.
One of the key roles for the QRFSU is to
plan for the future in such a way that the
game remains an attractive area for
teachers to remain involved in terms of
coaching, managing and organising and
that players continue to enjoy the rugby
experience.
5. The success of the Japanese tour
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For the first time Queensland played
hosts to the Japanese and three games
were played by combined regional teams
in Townsville, Noosa and Brisbane. The
Japanese team played outstanding rugby
and recorded comfortable wins. However
the games were well supported by the
regional players who enjoyed the
experience of playing against an
international team. Thanks go to John
Brew for his organisation of this tour.
Seasons such as this year don’t occur
without the unqualified support of many
people. Could I express my sincere thanks
to the following people for their
conscientious efforts throughout the year:
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PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE
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JAPANESE SCHOOLBOY TOUR
highlights the readiness and the
willingness of country areas to host
international and state tours. Thought
should be given as to how this
momentum can be maintained.
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Digby Ioane, Lloyd Johansen, Anton
LaVin, Tajohn Mailata and Andrew
Villamau. Peter Gledhill, Glen Cronan and
David Grogan were part of the Australian
management team and did an outstanding
job.
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success. Due to family circumstances
Keith is retiring this year. I also
acknowledge the work of David Grogan
who was responsible for organizing the
first live in championships at Churchie.
43
Queensland Junior
Rugby Union
2003 has been a great year for Australian
Rugby in general and the QJRU in
particular.
The Rugby World Cup has proven to be a
wonderful advertisement for the sport
with crowds flocking to be part of the
spectacle and to soak up the atmosphere.
This has already created a ripple effect for
Junior Rugby. To what extent this
multiplies remains to be seen. However, it
further highlights the increasing need for
grounds and facilities, club and team
officials, and improved levels of
professionalism, particularly with respect
to management, the code of conduct and
duty of care.
All reports indicate that the 2003 State
Championships hosted by the North
Brisbane Junior Barbarians Club was a
showcase event for Junior Rugby and I
congratulate Narelle Cathcart and her
committee for this success. Redlands
Junior Rugby Union face a challenge to
exceed this very high standard in 2004.
The success and growth of the Junior
State Championships is such that future
planning needs to recognise that a new
approach is required. This will be
addressed
by
the
new
QJRU
Management Committee.
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This year has again been one of success
for the QJRU. The good work of volunteer
committees at all levels has continued,
raising expectations and performance to
new benchmarks. I believe that we, in
Queensland Junior Rugby, can be justly
proud of our efforts.
Feedback received during the year
indicates that there is a general feeling
and consensus that the more cohesive
statewide approach to the development
and promotion of Junior Rugby has
continued in 2003. This is reflected in the
country representation on the QJRU
Management Committee and the quality
of discussion at the country affiliate
meeting before the AGM.
2003 PRIORITIES
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At the beginning of this year, I
emphasised that the priorities established
in 2002 would remain the focus for 2003.
These were
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1. Improved promotion of the QJRU as a
state representative body
4. Improved alignment with the QRU
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3. Improved promotion of Junior Rugby
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2. Improved promotion of Junior Rugby
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1. Improved Promotion of the QJRU as
a State Representative Body
It is pleasing to note that the President’s
Award again went to a Rockhampton club.
However, it would be good to see greater
competition for this award. We know that
many excellent things are happening
throughout the state and this is one way
to recognise the good work done at club
level.
As foreshadowed in 2002, the
formalisation of the establishment of the
Brisbane Junior Rugby Union will be part
on the 2003 AGM agenda.
I applaud the QJRU for its allocation of
extra
significant
funds
for
the
development of Junior Rugby through the
Reds College (approximately $24000).
This complements the creation of rugby
academies in four areas of the state. The
Brisbane Clubs have also voted to
contribute funds to Brisbane academies,
to be established shortly. The provision of
such funds is evidence of the capacity of
Junior Rugby to advance the development
of junior players and the sport in general.
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2. Improved Promotion of Junior Rugby
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The QJRU is determined to maintain its
high standards in ensuring the success
and sustainability of new and existing
affiliates and clubs.
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Player numbers have continued to grow
throughout the state. This reflects the
success of regional programs and the
work of Development Officers. Satellite
clubs were established by Easts and
44
Redlands Junior Rugby Union Clubs, with
Caboolture sponsoring the formation of
Redcliffe Junior RUC. However there has
been some difficulty in the tracking of
player numbers due to some problems
with RugbyNet.
The Reds Rugby College has continued its
contribution to the identification and
development of U15 and U16 players
throughout the state as well as the
selection and preparation of the State U16
teams
to
contest
the
National
Championships. Once again, I thank Mike
Glover, Des Drice, Damian Hearne, Sean
Hedger and the staff of the College for
their efforts. The word of mouth
recognition of the role of the Reds College
has been evident throughout the state.
The Queensland U16 Red Team came
second at the National Championships
while the Queensland U16 White Team
came fifth.
3. Improved Promotion of Junior Rugby
Standards
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Karl Shrubsole
QJRU President
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Personally, I have greatly enjoyed my
involvement in the administration of
Junior Rugby. I have met many fine
friends and have gained many fond
memories. I have also learnt so much
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I must acknowledge and thank QRU for its
support and encouragement, especially
Jeff Miller (retiring CEO), Gaven Head
(Community Rugby Manager, Queensland
Rugby) the Development Officers and the
staff who assist from time to time. A
special thanks goes to Rod Cousins, QRU
Junior Rugby Manager, for his guidance,
knowledge and unfailing support.
I thank the Brisbane Competition
Committee for its commitment during a
very exciting and successful year. As I
anticipate that the creation of the
Brisbane Junior Rugby Union will mean
that this is the last opportunity to
acknowledge your work, I am confident
that your efforts will result in the growth
of a new force in Junior Rugby. The
competition finals held at Ballymore were
a highlight of the year for those who
participated. I congratulate Sunnybank
JRU for the high standard of organisation
and presentation.
Finally, I wish that 2004 will once again be
a success for Queensland Junior Rugby. I
am conscious that junior sport is
dependent upon the skills, knowledge,
determination and passion of volunteers.
Please come back and bring some friends
– you will be needed.
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4. Improved Alignment with the QRU
In particular I thank Mike Glover, who is
standing down from the QJRU
Management Committee. Mike deserves
the highest commendation for his past
work to build the financial strength of the
QJRU and for his vision to develop junior
representative rugby through the Reds
College.
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I believe that we are reaching a point
where this applies to all junior rugby
competitions, not just those affiliated with
the QJRU. I foresee that some time in the
future, there will be an opportunity for all
young rugby players to compete in state
championships that are representative of
all competitions.
Chris Gunthorpe
Country Issues - Northern
from people who have mentored,
prodded, pushed and cajoled me, but who
have all given me a better understanding
of people and sport. I have been proud to
have been part of a very exciting period in
Junior Rugby in Queensland.
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However, such improvement comes at a
cost. We must continue to plan and to
implement rigorous processes that are
transparent
and
defensible.
The
community will judge Junior Rugby by its
public image, its approach to breaches of
the Code of Conduct, the consistency of
judicial panels and the level of satisfaction
displayed by players. This applies to QJRU
affiliated competitions everywhere in the
state.
Tom Wooler
State Championships Convenor/Country
Issues - State
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Overall, standards continue to improve
across all areas of Junior Rugby
competition,
management,
and
organisation. Of particular note is the
general improvement in skill levels,
especially in the Under 14 to Under16 age
group.
Current alignment includes
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• Partnership Agreement with QRU
• QJRU Strategic Plan to link directly, as
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appropriate, with that of the QR
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• QJRU Constitutional changes
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• Judicial and appeal processes.
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CONCLUSION
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I thank my fellow Management
Committee colleagues for their loyalty and
support throughout the season.
Mike Glover
Vice President/Representative Rugby
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Kerry O’Carroll
Treasurer/Country Issues - Southern
e
n
Des Drice
Chair, Brisbane Competition Committee
q
u
e
Kev Kaeser
Strategic Plan
45
QRU Club Report
After a successful, financially sound year, the Queensland Rugby Union Club (QRUC) has once again been able to support a wide range of
grass root rugby bodies. This assistance included but was not limited to QSRU, QCRU and the Referees.
The delivery of our fiscal obligations to the QRU has once again exceeded our expectations. Suffice to say that our contribution to the QRU
continues to assist Queensland Rugby as a whole. The QRUC is about to undertake a new strategic plan for the future that will establish
new goals and create opportunities for our long term relationship and commitment to provide financial support to rugby.
This year gone has seen a change in both the CEO and coaching positions at QRU. I take this opportunity to welcome Theo Psaros as the
new CEO of the QRU and Jeff Miller as the new Queensland Reds coach. We wish them both well in their new positions.
Overall the QRUC’s results are very positive and provide a continued platform to meet the goals of the Club being: consolidation of its
financial integrity; protection and enhancement of the rights of members; support to the rugby community through financial and spiritual
N i ck S t i l e s
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b
y
2
0
0
3
a
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a
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e
p
o
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t
assistance; maintenance of Ballymore as the home of Queensland Rugby.
46
Obituary
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0
0
3
a
from the war, he settled in Brisbane
where he loyally volunteered his service
to the GPS club until this year.
It was a feisty Mr Park who, several years
ago, led a walk-out of Ballymore life
members when they had been given
seats behind the goalposts at a Suncorp
Stadium Test match.
And he displayed determination to the
end.
“He didn’t want to go,” said Mr Park’s son
David.
“In the week leading up to his death, he
had been surrounded by his grand children
and he had a gem (a story) for each of
them.
“He offered them all little words of advice.
I describe him as a gentleman in the true
sense of the word.
I am very glad I had him for 57 years of my
life. I am very lucky.”
Mr Park is survived by his three children,
David, Jennifer and Pippa. His wife,
Eileen, died several years ago aged 85.
By Andrew Dawson (courtesy The CourierMail)
e
RONALD James Park was an outstanding
cricket wicket-keeper playing for Sydney
club Cumberland in the 1930s when he
enhanced his rising reputation by ousting
the legendary Sir Donald Bradman.
Bradman, the world’s greatest batsman,
was looking for a long innings in the leadup to a Sheffield Shield match when Mr
Park stumped him early, sending him back
to the pavilion with only a handful of runs
beside his name.
Before Bradman left the crease, he turned
to Mr Park and said: “Ron, they came to
see me bat today, not you wicket-keep.”
Mr Park, a Queensland Rugby Union life
member, former state rugby selector and
patron of the GPS Rugby Club, died in
September aged 92.
With his passing go stories so plentiful,
they could fill a book 10 times over. He
was penniless during The Great
Depression of the 1930s, survived serving
in World War II and was an admirer of
cricket and rugby union.
So good a wicket-keeper was he that
many predicted his rise to NSW level
would have been inevitable if former great
Bert Oldfield had not blocked his path.
Mr Park, who also became friends with
feared English fast bowler Harold
Larwood, once said of Oldfield: “You
couldn’t beat him. He started playing in
1911 and was still going strong in 1936 so
I gave it away. I had to study.”
It was during the 1930s that financial
hardship caused by the Depression
robbed Mr Park of the chance to play club
rugby, a sport he cherished.
He recalled not being able to “afford the
fees to travel to the matches”, an
experience which led to him having mixed
feelings when rugby union went
professional in the mid-1990s.
Upon seeing a match between
Queensland and Otago in 1995, he said: ”I
don’t know where it is going, but I do
know that I did not see a $300,000 player
on the field.”
His last game of rugby was in the Middle
East during World War II. Upon his return
u
Cricketer, rugby enthusiast
Born Sydney, July 18, 1911
Died Brisbane, September 25, 2003
q
RON PARK
n
n
u
In the seven years he worked with QRU
he would also hold the positions of North
Queensland
Accreditation
and
Development Manager and State
Accreditation Manager.
David had a passion for Schools Rugby
and more specifically North Queensland
Rugby. He was one of the inaugural
teachers who helped established the
Queensland Secondary Schools State
Championship and was also involved in
the coaching and management of the
early Queensland Combined Secondary
Schools teams. He was instrumental in
setting up the Mackay Schools
competition which to this day remains one
of the strongest and most inclusive
competitions.
l
The QRU and the Rugby Community was
saddened by the loss of David Bond over
the Christmas period in 2002. David
commenced
employment
with
Queensland Rugby in 1996 as the Central
Queensland Regional Coaching Director.
David was involved in the management
and organisation of the NQ Tour that
spawned players such as Brent and Matt
Cockbain, Jason Ramsamy and Mark
Gabey who would all go on to become
Queensland Reds.
He continued to serve these passions in
his employment with the QRU with the
establishment of Junior club competitions
in Mackay and Cairns while also making a
significant contribution to the authoring of
Level 1 and Level 2 Coach Accreditation.
David was a perfectionist and maintained
a high expectation of those people he
dealt with. He was however hardest on
himself, spending countless hours outside
of the normal working environment
making sure that every “i” was dotted and
“t” was crossed.
David will be acknowledged with a
category within the QRU annual volunteer
recognition awards. His ideals and his
actions both as a volunteer and a QRU
staff member serve as a useful yardstick
to the standards we should all aim to
maintain.
a
DAVID BOND
47
Directors’ Report
The Directors of Queensland Rugby Union
Limited, except where otherwise stated,
present their report on the company for
the financial year ended 31 October 2003.
DIRECTORS
The name and particulars of the Directors
of the company in office at any time
during or since the end of the year are:
r
e
p
o
r
t
Mr D C Crombie
Mr D E Usasz
Mr W E Barrett (resg (9/12/02)
Mr B J Kehoe
Mr R J Marks
Mr J S Miller (resg 5/9/03)
Mr P D Moore
Mr T J Psaros (appt 27/10/03)
Mr J A Roe
Mr R J Thomson
Mr R S Williams (appt 9/12/02)
l
INFORMATION ON DIRECTORS
0
0
3
a
n
n
u
a
Mr D.C. Crombie B. Ec (UQ)
David Crombie was elected Chairman in
1999 and has been a Director since 1997.
He is a Director of the Australian Rugby
Union and was elected to this position in
1999 in addition he is a Director of GRM
International, a Brisbane based agribusiness operation that manages projects
in Australia and overseas, and Chairman of
Meat and Livestock Australia. David is 59
years old.
a
n
d
r
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g
b
y
2
Mr D.E. Usasz B.Com (UQ), FCA
David Usasz is a Chartered Accountant
and has been a Director since September
2001 when he was appointed as Treasurer.
David is a Partner of
PricewaterhouseCoopers and was
National Director of Corporate Finance
Australasia for five years. He is currently a
board member of the Princess Alexandra
Hospital Research Foundation and
Treasurer of Tattersall’s Club in
Queensland. He has been a Director of
the Reds Rugby College Pty Ltd since its
inception in 1997. David is 48 years old.
q
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n
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Mr B.J. Kehoe B.A., Grad. Dip Bus
Admin., FAICD
Ben Kehoe has been a Director since
1997. Ben has had extensive experience
in Government and private sector
positions working on strategic and
Business development assignments. His
i
currently Chairman of Imaginot Pty Ltd
and Executive in Residence in the School
of Business Centre for Entrepreneurship
QUT. Ben is 53 years old.
Mr R. J. Marks
Dick Marks has been a Director since
1996 and is currently Chairman of the
Professional Rugby Committee. He is a
highly respected Rugby author and
represented Queensland and Australia
between 1962 and 1972. He was the
National Coaching Director of the
Australian Rugby Union from 1974 to 1996
and served on the IRFB Advisory
Committee for five years. He chaired the
Program Committee for the QRU/QUT
World Cup International Conference on
the Science and Practice of Rugby. Dick is
61 years old.
Mr P. D. Moore (UQ) B. Phty, Post Grad
Dip. Sports, Dip. P.E.
Peter Moore was appointed a Director in
October 2002. He has been a practicing
physiotherapist for 28 years. He has been
Chairman of Queensland Country Rugby
Union for the past two years and Past
President of Gold Coast Rugby Union for
three years. Peter is 55 years old.
Mr T. J. Psaros (UNE) B.F.A.
Theo Psaros was appointed Chief
Executive Officer and Director on 27
October 2003. Theo is a Chartered
Accountant and prior to joining QRU in
July 1998, he was a Senior Manager with
PricewaterhouseCoopers. Theo is 41
years old.
Mr J. A. Roe B. Sc.
John Roe has been a Director since 2001.
He has played for Queensland, Australia A
and is a current Reds player
representative on the Board. He is also
studying medicine. John is 26 years old.
Mr R. J. Thomson
Robin Thomson is a solicitor and has been
a Director since 2000. He played rugby
for GPS from 1967 to 2003 and was GPS
President for nine years from 1990 to
1999. He has also been Vice-President of
the Queensland Rugby Union for three
years from 1997 to 1999 and was a
Director of the Reds Rugby College since
its inception in 1997 until 2000. Robin is
57 years old.
Mr R.S. Williams LLB, ArbIAMA, FAIM
Ross Williams was appointed a Director in
November 2002. He is the Managing
Partner of the Brisbane office of Ebsworth
& Ebsworth, Lawyers. A Member of the
Queensland Law Society, Chair of its
Construction Law Committee; Deputy
Chair and Member of the Construction
Law Division of the Business Law Section
of the Law Council of Australia; a Member
of the Institute of Arbitrators, a Member
of the Commercial Law Association; a
Director of Sisters of Charity & Holy Spirit
Health Service Queensland Limited; a
past president of the Queensland Rugby
Union Club; and the Honorary Solicitor and
Associate of the Queensland Branch of
the Royal Life Saving Association of
Australia. Ross is 40 years old.
PRINCIPAL ACTIVITIES
The company’s principal activities in the
course of the financial year were the
control and operation of Rugby Union in
Queensland.
During the year there was no significant
change in the nature of these activities.
LIKELY DEVELOPMENT AND
RESULTS
Likely developments in the operations of
the company and the expected results of
those operations have not been included
in this report as the directors believe, on
reasonable grounds, that the inclusion of
such information would be likely to result
in unreasonable prejudice to the company.
MEETINGS OF DIRECTORS
During the financial year, 13 meetings of
Directors were held. The number of
meetings attended by each Director during
the year is as follows:
Number eligible Number
to attend
attended
Mr D.C. Crombie
13
11
Mr D.E. Usasz
13
13
Mr R. J. Thomson
13
13
Mr B. J. Kehoe
13
12
Mr R. J. Marks
13
12
Mr P. D. Moore
13
12
Mr J. A. Roe
13
7
Mr J. S. Miller
12
12
Mr R.S. Williams
10
9
Mr W.E. Barrett
3
1
The company has not, during or since the
financial year, in respect of any person
who is, or has been, an officer or auditor
of the company or of a related body
corporate:
SIGNIFICANT CHANGES IN STATE
OF AFFAIRS
No significant changes in the company’s
state of affairs occurred during the year.
AFTER BALANCE DATE EVENTS
r
with the exception of the following:
p
o
The company was not a party to any
such proceedings during the year.
r
e
Signed in accordance with a resolution of
the Directors made pursuant to Section
298(2) of the Corporations Act 2001 on
behalf of the Directors.
During or since the financial year the
company has paid premiums to insure
each of the directors and the company
secretary against liabilities for costs
and expenses incurred by them in
defending any legal proceedings
arising out of their conduct while
acting in the capacity of director or
D.C. Crombie
Chairman
D.E. Usasz
Treasurer
Brisbane this eighteenth day of
November 2003.
0
0
3
No matters or circumstances have arisen
• paid or agreed to pay a premium in
respect of a contract insuring against a
liability incurred as an officer or auditor
for the costs or expenses to defend
legal proceedings;
l
Details of the Commercial, Community
Rugby, Professional Rugby and Corporate
activities of the company for the year
have been outlined under those
operational headings in the previous
pages of the annual report.
a
REVIEW OF OPERATIONS
• indemnified or made any relevant
agreement for indemnifying against a
liability incurred as an officer or
auditor, including costs and expenses
in successfully defending legal
proceedings; or
No person has applied for leave of court
to bring proceedings on behalf of the
company or intervene in any proceedings
to which the company is a party for the
purpose of taking responsibility on behalf
of the company for all or any part of
these proceedings.
u
The company is a company limited by
guarantee and is prohibited under its
Constitution, to declare dividends.
PROCEEDINGS ON BEHALF OF
THE COMPANY
n
DIVIDENDS
n
The company’s profit for the financial
year after income tax was $182,802
which compares to a 2002 year profit of
$1,721,623.
company secretary of the company,
other than conduct involving a wilful
breach of duty in relation to the
company. Further details are
prohibited by a confidentiality clause.
t
since the end of the financial year which
significantly affected or may significantly
affect the operations of the company, the
results of those operations, or the state
of affairs of the company in subsequent
financial years.
a
OPERATING RESULTS
2
COMMITTEE MEETINGS
10
7
4
9
Chairman 4
Chairman 9
b
Brisbane
Competition
g
Premier
Rugby
8*
Mr D.E. Usasz
8
Mr T. J. Psaros
3
l
10
7
s
Mr P.D. Moore
Mr D.C. Crombie
3
n
Mr R.S. Williams
7
n
Mr J. S. Miller
d
Chairman 7
1
4
e
Mr R.J. Thomson
a
Mr R. J. Marks
r
Chairman 10
1*
e
Mr B. J. Kehoe
Professional
Rugby
u
Number of Meetings held
Finance &
Strategy
y
During the financial year, the following committees met and the attendances by Directors at these meetings were:
q
u
* Not eligible to attend all meetings held
ii
Statement of Financial Performance
as at 31 October 2003
Year Ended
31 October 2003
$
Year Ended
31 October 2002
$
17,362,957
15,340,259
-
1,991,854
(8,424,749)
(7,567,569)
Depreciation expense
(953,082)
(919,416)
Match day operational expense
(428,550)
(478,744)
Borrowing cost expense
(160,997)
(207,562)
-
(350,000)
(7,212,777)
(6,087,199)
182,802
1,721,623
Note
Revenue from ordinary activities
2
Government redevelopment grant
t
Employee and Player costs
r
Court settlement expense
p
Income tax expense relating to ordinary activities
1(c)
-
-
Net profit from ordinary activities after income tax
expense attributable to the members
13
182,802
1,721,623
182,802
1,721,623
l
Profit from ordinary activities before income tax expense
e
3
r
o
Other expense from ordinary activities
s
l
a
n
d
r
u
g
b
y
2
0
0
3
a
n
n
u
a
Total changes in equity other than those resulting from
transactions with members as members
q
u
e
e
n
The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements.
iii
Statement of Financial Position
as at 31 October 2003
Year Ended
31 October 2003
$
Year Ended
31 October 2002
$
82,493
1,771,004
35,062
349,400
98,418
2,657,792
26,198
208,248
2,237,959
2,990,656
26,052,040
26,826,489
TOTAL NON CURRENT ASSETS
26,052,040
26,826,489
TOTAL ASSETS
28,289,999
29,817,145
3,023,692
250,000
206,371
5,846,427
250,000
134,558
3,480,063
6,230,985
889,290
1,130,000
48,058
938,695
50,000
37,679
TOTAL NON CURRENT LIABILITIES
2,067,348
1,026,374
TOTAL LIABILITIES
5,547,411
7,257,359
22,742,588
22,559,786
22,742,588
119,500
22,440,286
22,742,588
22,559,786
Note
CURRENT ASSETS
Cash assets
Receivables
Inventories
Other
4
5&1(b)
6
TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS
7&1(a)
r
8
9
10
n
a
8
9
10
0
b
11
12
13
r
TOTAL MEMBERS’ EQUITY
u
g
MEMBERS EQUITY
Members’ Liability
Reserves
Retained Profits
y
2
NET ASSETS
0
3
NON CURRENT LIABILITIES
Payables
Interest bearing liabilities
Provisions
n
u
TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES
a
l
CURRENT LIABILITIES
Payables
Interest bearing liabilities
Provisions
e
p
o
r
t
NON CURRENT ASSETS
Property Plant & Equipment
d
14,15
19
s
l
a
n
Capital, leasing and contractual commitments
Contingent liabilities
q
u
e
e
n
The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements.
iv
Statement of Cash Flows
Year Ended
31 October 2003
$
Year Ended
31 October 2002
$
16,993,637
13,626,162
13,238
12,711
(17,967,866)
(10,450,668)
(160,997)
(207,563)
-
(350,000)
212,250
2,209,774
(909,738)
4,840,416
p
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES
e
Proceeds from sale of property, plant & equipment
-
8,591
r
Payments for property, plant & equipment
(186,187)
(2,798,024)
Net cash used in investing activities
(186,187)
(2,789,433)
u
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES
n
Proceeds from borrowings
1,080,000
-
n
Repayment of borrowings
-
(2,070,000)
a
as at 31 October 2003
Net cash provided by/(used) in financing activities
1,080,000
(2,070,000)
(15,925)
(19,017)
98,418
117,435
82,493
98,418
Cash On Hand
1,500
2,000
Cash At Bank
80,993
96,418
82,493
98,418
Note
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Receipts from patrons, sponsors etc
Interest received
Payments to suppliers, wages etc
Interest paid & other financial costs
Payments for court settlement
t
Grants from Queensland State Government
(b)
a
l
o
r
Net cash (used)/provided by operating activities
3
Net (decrease) in cash held
0
Cash at beginning of the financial year
(a)
2
0
Cash at end of the financial year
y
Note (a)
b
For the purposes of Statement of Cash Flows
s
l
a
n
d
r
u
g
Cash Comprises:-
q
u
e
e
n
The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements
v
Statement of Cash Flows (continued)
as at 31 October 2003
Year Ended
31 October 2003
$
Year Ended
31 October 2002
$
(909,738)
4,840,416
-
2,018
(953,082)
(919,416)
(7,554)
-
(886,788)
621,140
8,864
(14,309)
Increase /(Decrease) in other debtors & prepayments
141,152
(28,826)
(Increase)/ Decrease in provisions
(82,192)
155,183
2,872,140
(2,934,583)
182,802
1,721,623
Amount used
1,380,000
300,000
Amount unused
1,320,000
2,650,000
2,700,000
2,950,000
Note (b)
Reconciliation of Cash Flow provided by
Operating Activities to Profit from ordinary activities
Net Cash (used)/provided by operating activities
Gain on sale of property, plant & equipment
p
Loss on Disposal of Assets
o
r
Depreciation
t
Non cash flows in Profit from ordinary activities
u
n
a
Profit from ordinary activities for the year
n
Decrease/(Increase) in creditors
a
l
Increase/(Decrease) in inventories
r
(Decrease)/Increase in debtors
e
Changes in assets and liabilities
3
Financing Facilities
0
1) The permanent overdraft facility is $125,000. At 31 October 2003 this facility is unused.
b
y
2
0
2) Loan facility - Commercial Bills secured (note 9)
s
l
a
n
d
r
u
g
These facilities have been negotiated to the year 2006.
q
u
e
e
n
The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements
vi
Notes to the Financial Statements
as at 31 October 2003
NOTE 1 - STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
The financial report is a general purpose financial report that has been prepared in accordance with Accounting Standards, Urgent Issues
Group Consensus Views, other authoritative pronouncements of the Australian Accounting Standards Board and the Corporations Act
2001. The financial report covers the entity, Queensland Rugby Union Limited as an individual entity. Queensland Rugby Union Limited is
a company limited by guarantee, incorporated and domiciled in Australia.
The financial report has been prepared on an accruals basis and is based on historical costs and does not take into account changing
money values or, except where stated, current valuations of non-current assets. Cost is based on the fair values of the consideration
given in exchange for assets.
The following is a summary of the material accounting policies adopted by the company in the preparation of the financial report. The
accounting policies have been consistently applied, unless otherwise stated.
t
(a) Property, Plant and Equipment
o
Freehold land is measured at deemed cost based on the fair value of the land granted to the company by the Queensland
Government, being the amount for which an asset could be exchanged between knowledgable willing parties in an arm’s length
transaction. The land was recognised in the financial statements in 2001 on the basis of a valuation prepared by independent valuers.
r
e
Land
p
r
Each class of property, plant and equipment is carried at cost less, where applicable, any accumulated depreciation.
Buildings
l
Buildings are measured on the cost basis.
n
n
u
a
The carrying amount of buildings is reviewed annually by directors to ensure that it is not in excess of the recoverable amount from
the buildings. The recoverable amount is assessed on the basis of the expected net cash flows which will be received from the
assets employment and subsequent disposal. The expected net cash flows have not been discounted to their present value in
determining recoverable amounts.
a
Plant and Equipment
Depreciation
0
3
0
The carrying amount of plant and equipment is reviewed annually by directors to ensure it is not in excess of the recoverable amount
from these assets. The recoverable amount is assessed on the basis of the expected net cash flows which will be received from the
assets employment and subsequent disposal. The expected net cash flows have not been discounted to their present value in
determining recoverable amounts.
2
Plant and equipment are measured on the cost basis.
g
b
y
The depreciable amount of all fixed assets including buildings and capitalised lease assets, but excluding freehold land, is
depreciated on a straight line basis over their useful lives to the company commencing from the time the asset is held ready for use.
Leasehold improvements are depreciated over the shorter of either the unexpired period of the lease or the estimated useful lives of
the improvements.
Depreciation Rate
Buildings and Improvements
2.5 - 10%
d
Plant and Equipment
17 - 33.3%
Depreciation rates in relation to the above classes of fixed assets are regularly reviewed by Directors.
a
r
Class of Fixed Asset
n
u
The depreciation rates used for each class of depreciable assets in the current and previous financial years are:
l
(b) Inventories
e
n
s
Inventories are valued at the lower of purchase cost and net realisable value.
e
(c) Income Tax
q
u
The company is exempt from income tax pursuant to the Income Tax Assessment Act.
vii
Notes to the Financial Statements
as at 31 October 2003
(d) Contra Sponsorships
The company is in receipt of sponsorships in the form of contras for travel, playing gear, advertising, car leasing etc. These contras
have been recognised in the financial statements as both income and expenditure.
(e) Leases
Lease payments for operating leases, where substantially all the risks and benefits remain with the Lessor, are expensed in the
periods in which they are incurred. This basis reflects the pattern of benefits derived from the use of the leased assets.
(f) Deferred Income
o
r
t
The company has sold certain grandstand seats and sponsorships over time periods exceeding one year. In addition, certain
Government grants have been received which are required to be utilised during the 2004 financial year. The income therefrom is
brought to account over the respective time periods on a pro rata yearly basis. The unexpired portion has been disclosed as a current
or non current liability.
p
(g) Employee Benefits
a
l
r
e
Provision is made for the company’s liability for employee benefits arising from services rendered by employees to balance date.
Employee benefits expected to be settled within one year together with entitlements arising from wages and salaries and annual
leave which will be settled after one year, have been measured at the amounts expected to be paid when the liability is settled, plus
related on costs. Other employee benefits payable later than one year have been measured at the present value of the estimated
future cash outflows to be made for those benefits.
n
u
Contributions are made by the entity to employee superannuation funds and are charged as expenses when incurred.
n
(h) Land
3
a
The Land situated at the Junction of Butterfield Street and Clyde Road, Herston is held by way of a Deed of Grant issued by the
State Government. This land is shown in the financial statements on the basis of an independent valuation being the fair value of the
asset acquired.
0
(i) Comparative Figures
2
0
Where required by Accounting Standards, comparative figures have been adjusted to conform with changes in presentation for the
current financial year.
b
y
(j) Shortfall of Working Capital
r
u
g
The statement of financial position shows there is a deficiency of working capital of $ 1,242,104 (2002 - $3,240,329). The directors
believe the company can continue to pay its debts as and when they fall due as a result of the generation of cash from operations in
the 2004 year.
(k) Revenue
l
a
n
d
Revenue from the sale of goods is recognised upon delivery of goods to customers.
Interest revenue is recognised on a proportional basis taking into account the interest rate applicable to the financial assets.
Revenue from the rendering of a service is recognised upon the delivery of the service to the customers.
s
(l) Goods and Services Tax (GST)
q
u
e
e
n
Revenues, expenses and assets are recognised net of the amount of GST, except where the amount of GST incurred is not
recoverable from the Australian Tax Office. In these circumstances the GST is recognised as part of the cost of acquisition of the
asset or as part of an item of expense. Receivables and payables in the Statement of Financial Position are shown inclusive of GST.
viii
Notes to the Financial Statements
as at 31 October 2003
Year Ended
31 October 2003
$
Year Ended
31 October 2002
$
12,383,628
2,578,197
971,910
534,450
280,846
40,050
206,128
11,143,026
2,204,955
773,789
558,880
95,662
40,050
148,022
16,995,209
14,964,384
180,235
174,275
13,238
197,424
165,740
12,711
367,748
375,875
17,362,957
15,340,259
160,997
207,562
Buildings & improvements
793,032
789,352
Plant & equipment
160,050
130,064
953,082
919,416
82,192
(156,092)
1,035,274
763,324
-
25,000
31,615
12,083
234,658
232,103
NOTE 2 - REVENUE
t
Operating activities
- grants/sponsorship received
- gate takings
- corporate facilities
- licence fee
- merchandising & royalties
- affiliation fees
- other revenue
r
e
p
o
r
Non-operating activities
- car parking income
- rent received
- interest received
u
a
l
Total revenue
n
NOTE 3 - PROFIT FROM ORDINARY ACTIVITIES
n
Profit from ordinary activities before income tax has been determined after:
a
(a) Expenses:
3
0
Movements in Provisions
Depreciation of non-current assets:
g
Other provisions
u
- employee entitlements
r
b
y
2
- other persons
0
Interest paid or payable to:
Net expense resulting from movement
a
l
Remuneration of the auditors for the audit of financial statements
Rental expense on operating leases
q
u
e
e
n
Bad and doubtful debts
s
n
d
in provisions
ix
Notes to the Financial Statements
as at 31 October 2003
Year Ended
31 October 2003
$
Year Ended
31 October 2002
$
Amount Received from Queensland State Government for development
of Ballymore facilities
-
1,991,854
Costs in relation to settlement of legal liability
-
(350,000)
1,316,847
936,332
804,708
757,285
677,513
466,832
294,358
1,610,437
839,676
910,280
729,116
670,620
596,179
637,028
326,999
1,264,206
1,273,310
-
2,449,062
(25,000)
1,273,310
2,424,062
497,694
233,730
1,771,004
2,657,792
35,062
26,198
349,400
208,248
(b) Significant Revenues and Expenses
r
o
p
e
r
u
a
l
(c) Other Expenses
Sponsorship Servicing
Premier Rugby Funding
Ballymore Expenditure
Country Rugby Funding
Promotions and Advertising
Grants to Affiliates
Reds Team Expenses
Other Expenses
t
The following significant revenue and expense items are relevant in
explaining the financial performance:
a
3
y
2
0
Amounts receivable from
- associated companies (refer to note 20(c))
0
CURRENT
Trade Receivables
Less Provision for Doubtful Debts
n
n
NOTE 4 - RECEIVABLES
r
u
CURRENT
Finished Goods at cost
g
b
NOTE 5 - INVENTORIES
n
a
l
s
n
e
e
u
q
CURRENT
Prepayments
d
NOTE 6 - OTHER ASSETS
x
Notes to the Financial Statements
as at 31 October 2003
Year Ended
31 October 2003
$
Year Ended
31 October 2002
$
10,000,000
10,000,000
-
-
10,000,000
10,000,000
Buildings & improvements - at cost
23,640,245
23,558,732
Accumulated Depreciation
(4,334,297)
(3,541,266)
Recoverable Amount Write Down
(3,557,600)
(3,557,600)
15,748,348
16,459,866
Plant & Equipment - at cost
1,097,539
1,188,784
Accumulated Depreciation
(793,847)
(822,161)
303,692
366,623
26,052,040
26,826,489
NOTE 7 - PROPERTY, PLANT & EQUIPMENT
Freehold land at deemed cost
e
p
o
r
t
Accumulated Depreciation
a
l
r
Total Property, Plant and Equipment
u
(a) Movements in Carrying Amounts
Buildings &
improvements
at cost
$
Plant &
equipment
at cost
$
Total
$
0
Carrying amount at start of year
10,000,000
16,459,866
366,623
26,826,489
0
Additions
-
81,513
104,674
186,187
Disposals
-
-
(7,554)
(7,554)
y
Depreciation charge for the year
-
(793,031)
(160,051)
(953,082)
Carrying amount at end of year
10,000,000
15,748,348
303,692
26,052,040
q
u
e
e
n
s
l
a
n
d
r
u
g
2
3
a
Freehold
land
$
b
n
n
Movement in carrying amounts for each class of Property, Plant and Equipment between the beginning and the end of the
financial year
xi
Notes to the Financial Statements
as at 31 October 2003
Year Ended
31 October 2003
$
Year Ended
31 October 2002
$
2,477,350
2,889,441
546,342
2,956,986
3,023,692
5,846,427
889,290
938,695
350,703
1,736,008
Grants & Rentals in advance
112,116
124,018
Red Pass- 30 years
49,405
49,405
Functions & Other
22,800
-
Corporate Facilities
11,318
1,047,555
546,342
2,956,986
2-5 years
Red Pass - 30 years
197,620
197,620
After 5 years
Red Pass - 30 years
691,670
741,075
889,290
938,695
1,435,632
3,895,681
NOTE 8 - PAYABLES
CURRENT
UNSECURED LIABILITIES
Trade creditors
Deferred income (a)
t
NON-CURRENT
p
Deferred income (a)
o
r
UNSECURED LIABILITIES
e
(a) Deferred Income
l
r
Red Pass Subscribers to seats in the Eastern Stand purchased these seats for a
period of 30 years. The Red Pass deferred income disclosed as a current liability
represents income which will accrue to the company in 2004.
u
a
Red Pass deferred income disclosed as non current liability represents the income
value that will accrue to the company after 2004.
n
The accounting treatment for deferred income has been disclosed in Note 1(f).
a
y
2
0
0
3
Season Tickets
n
Represented by:-
a
l
s
n
e
e
u
q
TOTAL DEFERRED INCOME
n
d
r
u
g
b
NON CURRENT
xii
Notes to the Financial Statements
Year Ended
31 October 2003
$
Year Ended
31 October 2002
$
250,000
250,000
250,000
250,000
1,130,000
50,000
l
Freehold Land
10,000,000
10,000,000
a
as at 31 October 2003
Buildings & Improvements
15,748,248
16,459,866
25,748,248
26,459,866
206,371
134,558
206,371
134,558
48,058
37,679
254,429
172,237
38
38
NOTE 9 - INTEREST BEARING LIABILITIES
CURRENT
SECURED LIABILITIES
Commercial bills (a)
t
NON-CURRENT
r
SECURED LIABILITIES
o
Commercial bills (a)
r
e
p
(a) Secured by a first mortgage and registered second mortgage by the
Bank of Queensland Ltd over property situated at the junction of
Butterfield Street and Clyde Road, Herston.
a
n
n
u
The carrying amount of non current assets pledged as security are:
3
Employee Entitlements
2
0
CURRENT
0
NOTE 10 - PROVISIONS
NON-CURRENT
g
Number of employees at the end of the year
d
r
(a) Aggregate employee entitlements liability
u
b
y
Employee Entitlements
n
NOTE 11 - MEMBERS’ LIABILITY
q
u
e
e
n
s
l
a
The company is a company limited by guarantee and has no share capital. If the
company is wound-up the Constitution states that each member is required to contribute
a maximum of $100 each towards meeting any outstanding obligations of the company.
At 31 October 2003 the number of members was 55 (2002 - 55)
xiii
Notes to the Financial Statements
as at 31 October 2003
Year Ended
31 October 2003
$
Year Ended
31 October 2002
$
-
119,500
-
119,500
119,500
119,500
(119,500)
-
-
119,500
22,440,286
20,718,663
119,500
-
22,559,786
20,718,663
182,802
1,721,623
22,742,588
22,440,286
230,142
185,061
48,645
81,101
278,787
266,162
NOTE 12 - RESERVES
Lease Premium
(a) Lease Premium reserve movement during the year
r
Opening balance
t
The Lease Premium relates to a Premium on Lease of $100,000 for the Bears at
Ballymore Country Club and an associated payment of $19,500 to assist in the costs
of raising the height levels of buildings, received from Ballymore Properties Pty Ltd
during 1985. These receipts have not been recognised previously.
r
e
Closing balance
p
o
Transfer to Retained Profits
l
NOTE 13 - RETAINED PROFITS
Net profit attributable to the members
0
0
3
Retained profits at the end of the financial year
a
n
Adjusted retained profits at the beginning of the financial year
n
Adjustment to the Lease Premium Reserve
u
a
Retained profits at the beginning of the financial year
2
NOTE 14 - LEASE COMMITMENTS
y
Non-cancellable operating leases contracted for but not capitalised in the financial statements.
g
Not later than one year
b
Payable:
r
u
Later than one year and not later than five years
q
u
e
e
n
s
l
a
n
d
The lease commitments relate mostly to the lease of the administration
building at 15 Mallon Street, Bowen Hills.
xiv
Notes to the Financial Statements
as at 31 October 2003
Year Ended
31 October 2003
$
Year Ended
31 October 2002
$
4,577,200
3,052,650
5,474,860
3,722,270
7,629,850
9,197,130
15,000
14,623
1,992
11,065
1,018
31,615
12,083
No.
9
1
1
No.
9
1
1
-
$
155,703
$
255,363
NOTE 15 - CONTRACTUAL COMMITMENTS
As at 31 October 2003, the company had entered into contractual obligations
with certain players and support staff for the 2004 and subsequent seasons.
This will result in payments as follows:
Not later than one year
Later than one year but not later than five years
t
Income to support these commitments is to be received from the
Australian Rugby Union Limited as a grant.
a
The company controls and operates the sport of Rugby Union in Queensland.
a
n
n
NOTE 16 - SEGMENT REPORTING
u
l
r
e
p
o
r
The Queensland Rugby Union Limited has signed a collective bargaining agreement
on 31 March 2001 together with the Australian Rugby Union Limited, the New South Wales
Rugby Union Limited, the Australian Capital Territory Rugby Union Incorporated and the
Rugby Union Players Association Incorporated which provides amongst other things
minimum remuneration requirements for contracted players.
NOTE 17 - REMUNERATION OF AUDITORS
y
2
0
0
3
Amounts received, or due and receivable by the Auditors from the company for:
Auditing the Financial Statements - current year
Auditing the Financial Statements - prior year
Auditing the Financial Statements - prior year RRC
b
NOTE 18 - REMUNERATION OF DIRECTORS
r
The number of Directors (including the Executive Director) whose total income falls
within the following bands:
Nil
$1 - $9,999
$110,000 - $119,999
$130,000 - $139,999
$140,000 - $149,999
e
n
s
l
a
n
Remuneration includes payments received by Directors in relation to the management
of the affairs of the company.
d
u
g
Non-executive Directors do not receive remuneration from the company. This is in accordance
with the Constitution. The Executive Director and Players’ Representative Director or his
alternate receive remuneration from the company.
q
u
e
Aggregate income paid or payable to all
xv
Notes to the Financial Statements
as at 31 October 2003
NOTE 19 - CONTINGENT LIABILITIES
Queensland Rugby Union Ltd is currently defending a number of outstanding litigation claims bought against the company by former
players and others. These claims are being defended by the company.
NOTE 20 - RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
(a) During the year the following Directors held office:
D.E. Usasz
R .J. Marks
T.J. Psaros
R.S. Williams
W.E. Barrett
J. S. Miller
J. A. Roe
r
t
D.C. Crombie
B. J. Kehoe
P.D. Moore
R. J. Thomson
p
o
(b) Director Related Entities
e
Transactions between related parties are on normal commercial terms and conditions no more favourable than those available to
other parties unless otherwise stated.
l
r
(1) Messrs R. J. Marks, B. J. Kehoe and R.J. Thomson are the three Queensland members of the Council of the Australian Rugby
Union Limited. The Australian Rugby Union Limited receives affiliation fees from the company and distributes Grants to the
company.
n
u
a
(2) Messrs D.C. Crombie is a director of the Australian Rugby Union Ltd.
n
(c) Associated Entities
a
(1) Queensland Rugby Union Club Inc. is charged rent for their premises at Ballymore, $110,000 (2002 $107,550). The club was
charged a licence fee of $534,450 (2002 $558,880) for its operations at Ballymore
3
(2) Queensland Junior Rugby Union Inc. is not charged rent for the space occupied at Ballymore and Mallon Street, Bowen Hills.
0
0
(3) Queensland Country Rugby Union through its constituent sub unions is charged affiliation fees of $18,450 (2002 $18,450) and
receives grants from the company of $757,285 (2002 $670,620).
y
2
(4) Queensland Suburban Rugby Union Inc. is not charged rent for the space occupied at Ballymore and Mallon Street, Bowen Hills.
b
NOTE 21 - ECONOMIC DEPENDENCY
q
u
e
e
n
s
l
a
n
d
r
u
g
Income to support the contractual obligations of players and support staff for the 2004 season is to be received from The Australian
Rugby Union Ltd as a grant. The company is dependent upon the receipt of these funds from The Australian Rugby Union Limited in
order to meet the contractual obligations as noted in Note 15 to the financial statements.
xvi
Notes to the Financial Statements
as at 31 October 2003
NOTE 22 - COMPANY DETAILS
The registered office of the company is:
The principle place of business is:
Rugby House
15 Mallon Street
Bowen Hills QLD 4006
Clyde Road
Herston QLD 4006
NOTE 23 - FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
t
(a) Interest Rate Risk
e
p
o
r
The economic entity’s exposure to interest rate risk, which is the risk that a financial instrument’s value will fluctuate as a result of
changes in market interest rates and the effective weighted average interest rates on classes of financial assets and financial
liabilities, is as overleaf.
r
(b) Credit Risk
u
a
l
The maximum exposure to credit risk, excluding the value of any collateral or other security, at balance date to recognised financial
assets is the carrying amount, net of any provisions for doubtful debts, as disclosed in the statement of financial position and notes
to the financial statements.
n
(c) Net Fair Values
a
n
For all assets and liabilities the net fair value approximates their carrying value. No financial assets and financial liabilities are readily
traded on organised markets in standardised form.
0
3
Floating
Interest Rate
2002
2003
2002
2003
Non Interest
Bearing
2002
TOTAL
2003
2002
2003
0
Notes
Fixed Interest Maturing
in 1 Year or Less
2
Financial Assets
Cash & Deposits
80,993
4
2,000
1,500
98,418
82,493
2,657,792
1,771,004
2,657,792
1,771,004
2,659,792
1,772,504
2,756,210
1,853,497
6,785,122
3,912,982
6,785,122
3,912,982
300,000
1,380,000
6,785,122
3,912,982
7,085,122
5,292,982
(4,125,330)
(2,140,478)
(4,328,912)
(3,439,485)
y
Receivables
96,418
96,418
80,993
3.2%
3.0%
r
b
g
u
Financial Liabilities
Trade and other
creditors
8
Bills payable
9
a
n
d
Weighted average
interest rate
s
l
Weighted average
interest rate
q
u
e
e
n
Net financial
assets (liabilities)
xvii
96,418
80,993
300,000
1,380,000
300,000
1,380,000
6.8%
5.2%
(300,000)
(1,380,000)
Directors’ Declaration
as at 31 October 2003
The directors of the company declare that:
1.
the financial statements and notes, as set out on pages iii to xvii, are in accordance with the Corporations Act 2001:
a) comply with Accounting Standards and the Corporations Regulations 2001; and
b) give a true and fair view of the financial position as at 31 October 2003 and of the performance for the year ended on that date
of the company;
2. in the directors’ opinion there are reasonable grounds to believe that the company will be able to pay its debts as and when they
become due and payable.
r
D.E. Usasz
Treasurer
p
o
D.C. Crombie
Chairman
t
This declaration is made in accordance with a resolution of the Board of Directors.
a
l
r
e
Dated in Brisbane this eighteenth day of November 2003.
n
u
Disclaimer
3
a
n
to the Members of Queensland Rugby Union Limited
b
y
2
0
0
The additional financial data presented on pages xx to xxi are in accordance with the books and records of the company which have
been subjected to the auditing procedures applied in our statutory audit of the company for the year ended 31 October 2003. It will be
appreciated that our statutory audit did not cover all details of the additional financial data. Accordingly, we do not express an opinion on
such financial data and we give no warranty of accuracy or reliability in respect of the data provided. Neither the firm nor any member or
employee of the firm undertakes responsibility in any way whatsoever to any person other than the Queensland Rugby Union Limited in
respect of such data, including any errors or omissions therein however caused.
r
u
g
Dated this nineteenth day of November 2003.
l
a
n
d
BDO Kendalls Partnership
Chartered Accountants
q
u
e
e
n
s
DAMIAN WRIGHT
Partner
xviii
Independent Audit Report
to the Members of Queensland Rugby Union Limited
SCOPE
The financial report and directors’ responsibility
The financial report comprises the statement of financial position, statement of financial performance, statement of cash flows,
accompanying notes to the financial statements, and the directors’ declaration for Queensland Rugby Union Limited, for the year ended
31 October 2003.
The directors of the company are responsible for the preparation and true and fair presentation of the financial report in accordance with
the Corporations Act 2001. This includes responsibility for the maintenance of adequate accounting records and internal controls that are
designed to prevent and detect fraud and error, and for the accounting policies and accounting estimates inherent in the financial report.
AUDIT APPROACH
p
o
r
t
We conducted an independent audit in order to express an opinion to the members of the company. Our audit was conducted in
accordance with Australian Auditing Standards in order to provide reasonable assurance as to whether the financial report is free of
material misstatement. The nature of an audit is influenced by factors such as the use of professional judgment, selective testing, the
inherent limitations of internal control, and the availability of persuasive rather than conclusive evidence. Therefore, an audit cannot
guarantee that all material misstatements have been detected.
r
e
We performed procedures to assess whether in all material respects the financial report presents fairly, in accordance with the
Corporations Act 2001, including compliance with Accounting Standards and other mandatory financial reporting requirements in
Australia, a view which is consistent with our understanding of the company’s financial position, and of its performance as represented
by the results of its operations and cash flows.
a
examining, on a test basis, information to provide evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial report, and
•
assessing the appropriateness of the accounting policies and disclosures used and the reasonableness of significant accounting
estimates made by the directors.
n
•
u
l
We formed our audit opinion on the basis of these procedures, which included:
a
n
While we considered the effectiveness of management’s internal controls over financial reporting when determining the nature and
extent of our procedures, our audit was not designed to provide assurance on internal controls.
3
INDEPENDENCE
2
0
0
In conducting our audit, we followed applicable independence requirements of Australian professional ethical pronouncements and the
Corporations Act 2001.
AUDIT OPINION
y
In our opinion, the financial report of Queensland Rugby Union Limited is in accordance with:
b
(a) the Corporations Act 2001, including:
u
g
(i) giving a true and fair view of the company’s financial position as at 31 October 2003 and of its performance for the year ended
on that date; and
r
(ii) complying with Accounting Standards in Australia and the Corporations Regulations 2001; and
d
(b) other mandatory financial reporting requirements in Australia.
n
s
l
a
n
BDO Kendalls
Chartered Accountants
q
u
e
e
DAMIAN WRIGHT
Partner
xix
Trading Profit and Loss Account
as at 31 October 2003
Year Ended
31 October 2003
$
Year Ended
31 October 2002
$
Commercial
Gate Takings
- Representative Games
- Club Games
Sponsorships and Advertising
Corporate Facilities
QRU Licence Club Fee
Merchandising & Royalties
Car Parking Income
Rent Received
Red Barons
Other income
2,381,482
196,715
3,944,738
971,910
534,450
280,846
180,235
174,275
66,539
48,592
2,049,754
155,201
3,228,393
816,847
558,880
95,662
197,424
165,740
25,996
TOTAL COMMERCIAL INCOME
8,779,782
7,293,897
Community Rugby
Grants Received
Vikings Participation fee
2,138,875
5,000
2,137,459
30,000
TOTAL COMMUNITY RUGBY INCOME
2,143,875
2,167,459
ARU Player & Support Staff Distribution
ARU College Grants
Scholarship Funding
Auctions & Raffles
5,888,665
283,600
127,750
27,020
5,630,127
-
TOTAL PROFESSIONAL RUGBY INCOME
6,327,035
5,630,127
40,050
13,238
58,977
-
40,050
12,711
48,968
147,047
112,265
248,776
17,362,957
15,340,259
a
l
r
e
p
o
r
t
INCOME
0
0
2
y
b
g
u
r
d
n
a
l
s
n
e
e
TOTAL INCOME
u
TOTAL CORPORATE INCOME
q
Corporate
Affiliation fees
Interest Received
Other income
ARU Residual Grant
3
a
n
n
u
Professional Rugby
xx
Trading Profit and Loss Account
Year Ended
31 October 2003
$
Year Ended
31 October 2002
$
r
Commercial
Sponsorship servicing
Depreciation
Promotions and Advertising
Employee Costs
Match Day Operational Costs
Maintenance
Rates
Insurance
Light & Power
Pre/Post Match Functions
Rugby World Cup
Security
Programme Costs
1,316,847
795,000
677,513
664,894
428,550
267,559
221,289
156,072
129,281
108,452
49,168
30,507
23,652
839,676
789,352
596,179
512,610
478,744
273,288
182,138
133,590
111,689
37,840
28,411
32,400
o
TOTAL COMMERCIAL EXPENSES
4,868,784
3,884,855
p
as at 31 October 2003
Community Rugby
Brisbane Premier Rugby Funding
Country Grant Funding Scheme
Employee Costs
Grants to Affiliates
Accreditation & Administration
936,332
757,284
701,749
466,832
140,846
910,280
670,620
709,508
637,028
56,288
TOTAL COMMUNITY RUGBY EXPENSES
3,003,043
2,983,724
5,478,890
840,073
294,358
181,544
74,939
262,774
291,823
5,168,544
718,810
326,999
45,659
74,425
100,000
33,438
15,000
-
0
TOTAL PROFESSIONAL RUGBY EXPENSES
7,424,401
6,482,875
2
Communications
Employee Costs
147,256
65,531
TOTAL COMMUNICATIONS
147,256
65,531
s
Corporate
Employee Costs
Printing, Postage & Office Costs
Bank Charges and Interest
Rent
Depreciation
Legal and Consulting Fees
Telephone
Database and Website Costs
Hospitality & General Expenses
Insurance
Audit Fees
Centre for Rugby Studies Contribution
Affiliation Fees
Bad Debts
476,369
167,221
160,997
158,959
158,082
148,517
134,208
113,860
95,417
70,226
31,615
15,000
6,200
-
523,628
189,573
207,562
153,360
130,065
156,870
120,710
158,945
115,512
45,697
12,083
4,500
25,000
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TOTAL CORPORATE
1,736,671
1,843,505
e
TOTAL EXPENDITURE
17,180,155
15,260,490
TRADING PROFIT BEFORE INCOME TAX
182,802
79,769
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Professional Rugby
Player Costs
Support Staff Payments
Reds Team Expenses
Accommodation and Travel Visiting Teams
Players’ Association Contribution
Energex Reds Rugby College Grant
Queensland Teams Expenses
Centre for Rugby Studies Contribution
College Employee Costs
College Operating Expenses
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EXPENDITURE
xxi
Queensland Rugby
Union Office Bearers
PATRON
Her Excellency
Ms Quentin Bryce,
AC Governor of Queensland
VICE PATRONS
The Honourable Peter Beattie
Premier of Queensland
Chief Executive
Theo Psaros
Communications Manager
Peter Kelly
Community Rugby Manager
Gavin Head
Finance and Administration Manager
Megan Snape
VICE PRESIDENTS
QUEENSLAND SELECTORS
Tom McVeigh, Paul McGahan, Andy Purcell
Andrew Slack, Anthony Herbert, Bill Ross
LIFE MEMBERS
QAS UNDER 19 SELECTORS
KJ Hodda (1961), TN Betts (1969), BM Ffrench
(1972), EANByrne AM (1971), TP Mooney (1975),
JH Lucey (1983), JG Ryan (1984), LA Crowley
(1985), DW Jowett (1986), AJ Muir (1988), RR
Harrison(1989), Dr F Wilson (1993), AG Purcell
(1994), RJO Herring (1996), KJ Crowe (1997), LG
Williams (1998), AR Taylor (1999), RB McGruther
MBE (2000), G Core (2001), R Sinclair (2002)
David Bell, Ian Jones, Phil Mooney
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
JUDICAL APPEALS COMMITTEE
DC Crombie (Chairman)
DE Usasz (Treasurer)
P Moore
B Kehoe
R Williams
R Thomson
R JP Marks
J Miller
J Roe
W Bligh, J Mullins, T Shaw, P McGahan, J Forbes,
A Taylor, T Matthews, G Core, P Harding,
C Newton, N Rafter, L Prescott
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P Moore, R Thomson, J Rossiter, S Tutt, D Croft,
P Murdoch, M Logan
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BRISBANE RUGBY COMMITTEE
d
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H Shand (Chairman), G Gardiner, B Kelly
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JUDICIARY COMMITTEE
0
0
Ben Kehoe, Dick Marks, Robin Thomson
3
DELEGATES TO THE AUSTRALIAN RUGBY
UNION
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Paul McLean
Head Coach
Jeff Miller
p
PRESIDENT
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The Right Honourable,
The Lord Mayor of Brisbane
Cr Tim Quinn
EXECUTIVE STAFF
Bank of Queensland has been helping Queenslanders achieve their personal and business goals for over
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help achieving your goals, switch to the Reds’ Bank, Bank of Queensland.
You can also sign up for the Reds with your Bank of Queensland Reds VISA Card.
Call your local branch direct or 1300 55 72 72.
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