New deal a boost for Dolphins NRL and Moreton Bay Region
A two-year sponsorship deal between Moreton Bay Regional Council and the Dolphins NRL team will see players promoting the region and visiting local clubs as ambassadors for sport and healthy living.
Approved at this week’s council meeting – which was held at the Redcliffe Leagues Club – the announcement of the $400,000 sponsorship over two years coincides with the team’s NRL debut against the Roosters on Sunday.
Mayor Peter Flannery says the partnership will bring national exposure to the Moreton Bay Region.
“We backed their bid for the 17th NRL licence from the start, knowing it would bring significant economic stimulus and potential interstate investment to our area,” Mayor Flannery says.
“Over the years Council has been the biggest financial backer of the Dolphins, helping them transform from a QRL powerhouse to the NRL’s newest team.
“It was our $12.9 million investment into infrastructure at the site and their $24 million stadium that gave the Dolphins a competitive edge over the other NRL licence bidders and (the) vote formalises that relationship moving forward.
“This contract means the Dolphins will promote Moreton Bay and give local clubs access to Dolphins players as ambassadors for sport and living a healthy lifestyle.”
Growing the sport
Mayor Flannery says the region is a rugby league heartland and Dolphins players mentoring the next generation of Redcliffe Dolphins juniors is a big opportunity to grow the sport even further.
Speaking after the council meeting, Dolphins NRL CEO Terry Reader said the team was looking forward to building on the club’s rich history this weekend.
“We are very proud of the past we have built and obviously Council have had a very big part of that,” Mr Reader said.
“It’s very different from a normal expansion, because we have a story and history to celebrate
“We are the first BRL/NRL side to ascend to the NRL, the first to arrive at the top spot.
“We’re a national team and it all starts on Sunday.”
Mr Reader said having a team playing on the national stage would inspire younger players and the Redcliffe Dolphins were committed to nurturing new talent.
“You can be a six-year-old and play NRL here.
“The top (tier of players) doesn’t work without the bottom.
“One thing about the Redcliffe Dolphins is development, so players can come here and play at the highest level.”