March 18, 2022
For the third year in a row, Queensland Police have teamed up with the NRL and QRL to put on a gala footy day in Kingaroy for local schoolkids.
Sixteen teams took part in the recent “touch league” day with students from St Mary’s Catholic College in Kingaroy and Nanango, Murgon and Kingaroy State high schools participating.
COVID restrictions were lifted in time to allow pre-gala day activities to occur at the schools, with NRL reps attending the schools for training sessions.
South Burnett Rugby League president, Kingaroy officer-in-charge Senior Sergeant Dave Tierney said the gala day emphasised “positive behaviours”, such as sportsmanship and no bullying.
He said the schools had been really supportive, with even more students participating this year than in 2020.
The young players put their skills to the test at T.J. O’Neill Oval and were joined on the field by local police officers.
“The messages are well-received in this open learning environment, which also give the students the chance to interact socially with police in an enjoyable forum fostering positive relationships,” Snr Sgt Tierney said.
“Thanks to QRL and NRL for encouraging young people to improve their skills and for the great time along the way!”
