Queensland Rugby League has partnered with The School For Living, Mornington Island State School, the Youth Offender Support Service (YOSS) and community leaders to launch a 12-month early intervention initiative aimed at empowering young people through education, rugby league and community leadership.
Designed alongside local educators, youth workers, Elders and families, the program builds on the strength, resilience and cultural knowledge already within the Mornington Island community to create lasting opportunities for children and young people aged 8–17.
Using rugby league as a platform for connection, participants will take part in practical learning experiences focused on identity, respect, teamwork, accountability, decision-making and positive life choices.
The initiative aims to strengthen resilience, deepen connections to school, community and culture, and give young people the confidence to thrive.
QRL will support the program through player visits, community activities and meaningful engagement with the game, providing positive role models while reinforcing the values rugby league represents.
QRL acting CEO, Glenn Ottway said the initiative highlights rugby league's power to create positive change beyond the field.
"Rugby league has always been more than a game in Queensland, particularly in regional and remote communities," Ottaway said.
"It brings people together, creates belonging and provides opportunities for young people to see what is possible.
This initiative is about working together to increase access for children and young people through education, sport and community.
Glenn Ottaway QRL Acting CEO
“By investing early, we can help create environments where young people feel connected, supported and empowered to realise their potential.
"We're proud to work alongside The School For Living and the Mornington Island community on an initiative that puts young people, families and community at the centre."
The School for Living will lead delivery, workforce development and evaluation, ensuring the initiative remains community-led, culturally meaningful and focused on long-term impact.
Outcomes will be monitored throughout the year to refine the approach and help develop a model that could benefit communities across Queensland.
The initiative is led by Dr Sarah Tillott, CEO and Founder of The School for Living, Associate Professor of Nursing at UNSW Sydney and one of Australia's leading resilience experts.
Dr Tillott said meaningful change comes from combining evidence with the knowledge and leadership already within the community.
"The most meaningful and sustainable change happens when evidence is brought together with local knowledge, lived experience and community leadership." Dr Tillott added.
We bring an evidence-informed framework, but we know the strongest outcomes are achieved by listening, learning and growing alongside children, families, Elders, educators and local organisations.
Dr Sarah Tillott CEO and Founder, The School for Living
“Every community is unique, and we see this as a journey of continual learning so the initiative reflects what is meaningful for Mornington Island.
"Resilience isn't something that develops in isolation. It grows through trusted relationships, positive experiences, cultural identity, connection and opportunities to contribute.
“Rugby league provides a powerful vehicle to bring those protective factors to life in ways that are engaging, authentic and community-centred."
"Our hope is that this initiative creates meaningful opportunities for young people today while building a sustainable model that can continue to evolve and strengthen pathways for future generations."
