Exploring the transformative partnership between TAFE Queensland and the North Queensland Cowboys and the Brisbane Broncos to showcase how strategic collaboration between education and sport can drive community impact, vocational excellence, and regional pride. A focus will also be on the TAFE Queensland Sports Academy which is fostering strong links with industry partners/bodies and early engagement in educational activities with TAFE Queensland. Tangible benefits of the partnership will be highlighted, while demonstrating how this alliance supports TAFE Queensland’s mission to “Make Great Happen” across Queensland and beyond.
Key Themes:
1. Vocational Education & Training (VET) Leadership TAFE Queensland is the official VET provider for the Cowboys, and Broncos, offering co-branded Diplomas in Leadership and Sport, and incentivised learning and work placements for students.
2. Community Engagement & Social Impact Through initiatives like the Try Time! program (“Voice Against Violence”) and Beyond the Broncos, the partnerships reach thousands of students across regional schools and communities, promoting respectful relationships and career awareness.
3. Empowering Women in Sport The expanded partnership with the NRLW teams support female athletes pursuing qualifications in traditional areas of education but also supporting educational success in non-traditional areas - reinforcing the value of education beyond the field.
4. Brand Visibility, Identity & Reach TAFE Queensland’s logo features in various forms with both the Broncos and Cowboys including at home game-days, match day activations, community engagement activities and on the Cowboys NRL and NRLW player and retail jerseys.
This symbolises shared values and a commitment to community and regional development, amplifying visibility and engagement. The presentation will inspire stakeholders to consider how similar collaborations can be leveraged for broader social and economic outcomes.