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Yarrabah Seahawks lock in Bryant as new major sponsor
Gavin Broomhead
Cairns District Rugby League club Yarrabah Seahawks have announced Cairns construction firm Bryant as its new major sponsor in a huge boost for the Far North Queensland Indigenous community. The club, which will now be known as Bryant Yarrabah Seahawks, will wear the company’s logo on their gameday shirts, as well as branding at their Jilara Oval ground and other promotional activities. Seahawks secretary Sondra Lively said the $15,000 sponsorship was great news for everyone in the Yarrabah community. “We can’t thank Bryant enough for coming on board and supporting the Seahawks,” said Ms Lively. “Our club has been operating with minimal funds since our
inception into the Cairns District Rugby League in 2000. “We’ve survived on small sponsorships and grants, selfgenerated income, in-kind support, and generous community members. “This sponsorship means so much to us all and will enable the Seahawks to further help develop the club, players and coaching staff, as well as support our vital community work.” The Seahawks work in close partnership with Gindaja Treatment and Healing Indigenous Corporation (Drug and Alcohol Rehabilitation Centre), Yarrabah Aboriginal Shire Council, and Yarrabah State School. “This support will help our players and coaches further engage with members of our community in leadership training, and delivering workshops relating to family violence, drugs, alcohol and
gambling,” Ms Lively said. Bryant spokesperson Myranda Owen said the company had a close connection with Yarrabah having been awarded a tender last October to construct 19 new houses in the community. “Bryant prides itself on being a community supporter and could see the Seahawks really needed someone to give them a fair go and support them through the 2013 season,” said Ms Owen. “We’re really looking forward to spending the season by the club’s side, and supporting them through what we hope will be a fantastic year for all involved.” Bryant Yarrabah Seahawks joined the Cairns District Rugby League in 2000, and were A Grade runners-up in 2010, while the A Grade Reserves won the premiership last year.
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