REPORT Queensland Rugby Annual Report 1

Transcription

1 2012 Annual REPORT 2012 Queensland Rugby Annual Report 1

2 2012 Sponsors St.George Bank Bartercard Carlton United Brewery Cardno Fox Sports Gatorade Indigo Telecom Learn Earn Legend! Angove Family Wines Betfair Bond University Events Queensland Fuji Xerox Graincorp Greyhound 2xu Brooks The Cloakroom Confidential Document Solutions Diageo (Bundaberg Rum) Drummond Golf Elastoplast Enforcer 2012 Principal Naming Rights Elite Sponsors Kooga Major Sponsors Volvo Cars Australia Lumo Energy The Mac Services Group New Guinea Energy Stratco Triple M Official Sponsors Leighton Mission Australia Musashi Official Suppliers Normanby Hotel Sony Centre Xstrata Coal IPG Print ISS Jim Beam Korean Air Links Hope Island Legends National Wireless Patties Food & Unilever-4n20/Streets Gilbert Footballs PPQ Gullivers Sport Travel X-Radiology Hart Sports Yellow Cabs Media and Advertising Partners 4BC Network Ten Brisbane Times Ooh! Media GOA Billboards 2

3 Queensland Rugby Union Highlights Rugby continues to be one of the largest participation sports in Queensland - Participation increased 37 per cent year on year to over 187,000 players. Queensland s national footprint up by over six per cent to 37.3 per cent market share, marginally behind NSW (37.4). Queensland Rugby Corporate Partner investment to clubs up 14% from 2011 through the Aggregation Program. Government investment to clubs has increased 12% year on year. Financial Profit before Depreciation of $1.6m reducing to just under $1m after Depreciation. Queensland teams crowned National Champions in 2012: 2012 Contents Chairman s Report 2 CEO s Report St.George Queensland Reds 6 Community Rugby 15 Members and Affiliate Reports 30 Committee Reports 49 Office Bearers 55 Financial Report 56 Auditor s Report 92 Honour Board 94 Vales 95 - Queensland 16s - Queensland Women s - Under 18 Girls Sevens teams University beat Sunnybank in the Premier Rugby Final Reds Season Highlights St.George Queensland Reds dominate Australian Conference rivals with seven victories from eight matches against national opposition. Reds win the Australian Conference following a sixgame winning streak to end the regular season, including a bonus-point victory over the NSW Waratahs in round 18 in front of a Australian season high crowd of 41,533. Reds equal the efforts of the great Queensland team of 1999 by winning their opening three games of the season. St.George Queensland Reds 2012 debutants (7): Nick Frisby (Rd 4 v Sharks), Joel Rapana (Rd 6 v Force), Nathan Eyres-Brown (Rd 6 v Force), Sam Lane (Rd 7 v Brumbies), Chris F Sautia (Rd 13 v Lions), Blake Enever (Rd 16 v Rebels) and Jarrad Butler (Rd 17 v Highlanders). St.George Queensland Reds to reach 50-game milestone (5): Scott Higginbotham (Rd 1 v Waratahs), Digby Ioane (Rd 10 v Blues), Saia Faingaa (Rd 16 v Rebels), Ben Lucas (Rd 17 v Highlanders) and Ben Daley (Rd 18 v Waratahs). Reds regular season average crowd attendances were up a healthy 16 per cent to a record 34,218. Reds membership increased by more than 100 per cent from 15,626 members in 2011 to a record 32,000-plus members in Reds win the Rod MacQueen Cup for the first since its inception in 2005 after sweeping the Brumbies in their two-game series. Reds defend the Templeton Cup twice with victories against the Waratahs in the first and final round of the regular season. Reds win at Eden Park for the first time in Super Rugby, beating the Blues in round Queensland Rugby Annual Report 3

4 2012 Chairman s Report 2012 proved to be another very successful yet challenging year for Queensland Rugby. Determined to build on 2011 s outstanding results both on and off the field, Queensland Rugby delivered record growth in participation, membership and attendances. In fact in 2012, the St. George Queensland Reds achieved the highest average crowd attendances and membership levels of all Queensland sporting teams across all codes, and also set a new benchmark for our industry. As well, four of our five state teams were crowned National Champions in 2012, with the Queensland U16s, Queensland Women s and Under 18 Girls Sevens teams and the Queensland Reds taking national honours. The Queensland Schoolboys also had a commendable performance in finishing runners up at the National Championships. ST. GEORGE QUEENSLAND REDS The Reds faced the challenge of winning consecutive titles with confidence and courage in 2012 in what was always going to be a difficult year as reigning champions. A flying start to the season saw them make the best opening to a campaign by a Queensland side in Super Rugby history with three consecutive wins against the Waratahs in Sydney and then the Western Force and Melbourne Rebels at Suncorp Stadium. However, a troubling trip to South Africa where injuries challenged Queensland s depth, saw the Reds lose their next three matches. The situation forced Ewen McKenzie to select his sixth flyhalf for the season, and Queensland Rugby revisited plans for a new academy structure. The Reds also showed plenty of character and grit to win six straight games in their run to the finals, including their second win of the season against the Brumbies and a huge home victory over the then competition leading and eventual champions the Chiefs. The Reds won consecutive Australian Conference titles and qualified for back-to-back Super Rugby Finals Series with a four-try bonus-point win over the Waratahs in July. With the Brumbies losing earlier that day to the Blues, the Reds had everything to play for in front of a season high 41,533 fans as they beat their long-time rivals A one-game suspension to Quade Cooper slowed the Reds momentum heading into a disappointing loss to the Sharks in the Qualifying Final. Still there were plenty of positives to come from their 11- win season. The Australian Conference trophy and Templeton Cup were retained, and the Rod MacQueen Cup was secured for the first time with home and away wins over the Brumbies. The Reds dominated their Australian Conference opponents, winning seven of their eight matches against national rivals and also recorded their first ever Super Rugby win at Eden Park in Auckland against the Blues in round 10. Coach McKenzie also unearthed some stars of the future with Rookie of the Year Nick Frisby and outside back Chris F Sautia making the most of their opportunities, both scoring tries in the debut games. Two stars for season were Liam Gill and Dom Shipperley with both making major impact after forcing their way into the Reds starting XV and also into the Wallabies. Shipperley was a sensation on the wing, ending the season as Queensland s equal second most prolific try scorer in Super Rugby history, his eight tries topped only by Chris Latham s 10 try effort in Gill and Shipperley were two of five Reds to wear the green and gold for the first time during the Wallabies Wales Test Series, Rugby Championship and Spring Tour, joining Mike Harris, Luke Morahan and James Hanson. In all, 17 Reds players received the call up to represent Australia in Five players also reached the 50-game milestone for the Reds with Scott Higginbotham, Digby Ioane, Saia Faingaa, Ben Lucas and Ben Daley all celebrating the milestone last season. I would like to acknowledge the efforts of Head Coach Ewen McKenzie, Captain James Horwill, Pilecki Medal winner James Slipper and the entire team and staff on their season. COMMUNITY RUGBY Rugby in Queensland continues to grow. Participation in our game has risen to over 187,000 players across the state which is a 37 per cent increase from Encouraging growth is also being witnessed throughout our junior ranks. Also, for the first time, Queensland s national footprint has increased by over six per cent to 37.3 per cent market share, marginally behind NSW (37.4). This is a significant achievement when taking in to consideration back in 2008, the difference between the two states was 17 per cent (NSW 44.7 / QLD 27.7). University and Sunnybank entertained a large crowd at Ballymore with a high-scoring Grand Final in the Premier Rugby Competition with Uni winning That victory headlined a memorable weekend for the University Club which was successful in four of their seven Grand Finals Premier Rugby, Premier Colts, Colts 1 and Colts 2. Importantly, with the support of our many volunteers and clubs, Rugby continues to be one of the largest participation sports in Queensland and the Reds continue to enjoy unprecedented levels of support. To ensure the sustainability of the growth in junior Rugby, a new program introduced to the code s pathway, Rookies2Reds was well received by parents and saw almost 5,000 juniors experience Rugby in the inaugural year of the program which operated for 11 months of the year, state-wide. 4

5 As reflected in the participation results reported by the ARU, Rugby Sevens is one of the fastest growing sports in Australia. October s annual Festival of Sevens on the Gold Coast is working to continue this trend and is creating new interest in the format with over 50,000 Queenslanders taking part in With the support of Events Queensland, QRU ran a Try Sevens junior schools based program for over 16,000 children to headline the Festival, as well as the Reds Sevens Roadshow; Queensland Schools U18 Sevens Championships (Q7s); an inaugural Queensland Reds Gold Coast Corporate Tag Sevens; and the Noosa International Sevens FINANCIAL RESULT Queensland Rugby reported a surplus of $975,193 after depreciation ($629,405) in 2012 compared to a surplus of $1,460,069 ($624,486) in More detailed information on the financial results and comparisons to 2011 are included in the Financial Report. BALLYMORE Throughout 2011/2012, Queensland Rugby further evaluated the economic and strategic benefits of the original redevelopment plan for Ballymore, which was formally approved by the Planning and Environments Court on 10 August In particular, we have considered the changing requirements of the code over the last few years and into the future and also considered the ongoing community expectations of the precinct. Some time ago Queensland Rugby engaged Coffee Sport and Leisure to conduct a review of the aspects of the original redevelopment plans, and where required, made recommendations to ensure overall alignment with a range of key objectives, including and not limited to: the most suitable development based on site conditions and usage what are the most appropriate components to ensure economic sustainability considerations for state and federal government policy and objectives where appropriate; and correspond with the strategic directions of the Queensland Rugby Future Generation Plan whilst satisfying community expectations. Queensland Rugby plans to meet and present these revised plans to government to gauge their views in 2013, particularly regarding the most appropriate use of the precinct in the future marks the 130th Anniversary of Queensland Rugby and we plan to celebrate this occasion with our clubs, sub-unions, volunteers, alumni and general public throughout the year. Back on November 2, 1883 the QRU was formed over a beer at the Exchange Hotel in Brisbane. 130 years to the day, Queensland Rugby is planning to unveil the beginnings of a permanent presence for our game at Suncorp Stadium. A new Rugby precinct will be developed to reflect and pay tribute to our code s rich history while creating a legacy for the future generations. Also, a year of events including Heritage Rounds for the Reds and every Premier Club as well as a Back to Ballymore theme for the Premier Rugby Grand Final will highlight homages the code will pay to its history and tradition in Queensland throughout the year. There is much to look forward to in 2013 especially a historic tour by the British & Irish Lions. Finally I would like to thank the Queensland Rugby Board for their continued support and most importantly CEO Jim Carmichael and the hard working staff of Queensland Rugby for their efforts this year. The results enjoyed in 2012 are a good return for your commitment and passion. Rod McCall Chairman Queensland Rugby 2012 Queensland Rugby Annual Report 5

6 2012 Chief Executive Officer s Report The Future Generation n 2011, a number of milestones were achieved I which included securing the St.George Queensland Reds first Super Rugby title in the professional era and record outcomes were realised in all aspects of our business. Our initial strategies had served to accelerate the traditional income streams for both the professional and community game as well as consolidating the key assets of Rugby in Queensland. The successes of 2011 also saw our initial three year plan for consolidation and reform of the code achieved a year ahead of schedule. I am pleased to report that the year of 2012 has been a further step forward in our objective to create a legacy for Rugby in Queensland. As a pre-emptive organisation we recognised it was imperative that Queensland Rugby was committed to building on the success of the Reds championship winning year in the next 12 months and beyond, whilst ensuring that every aspect of our game would be in a position to capitalise on Rugby s resurgence. In 2012, we were determined to deliver the required framework and necessary investment into our game to achieve growth and scale, which in turn would ensure economic security and long-term sustainability for the code in Queensland. Therefore to continue the code s resurgence we developed and implemented the Future Generation strategy for , to take Rugby in Queensland through the next necessary phases which would accelerate our vision for the overall security of our game. The Future Generation strategy was developed to provide our stakeholders with the principles and framework that would improve our current position within the sporting industry and ensure that we all continue to increase our market share against our competitor codes throughout Queensland and Australia. Additional capital generated is directed into growing participation, membership and engagement of the One Rugby Community - through improving our participation pathways and program offerings to attract more people to our Code and therefore increasing our national footprint in the very competitive Australian sporting landscape. With regard the grass roots, One Rugby Code has the underlying objective for the community game to work to a common vision and for Queensland Rugby Union to continue to invest in the necessary skills and framework to assist all clubs and regions to improve their own position, irrespective of their status or circumstances. Clearly defined roles, responsibilities and expectations serve to realign the goals and functions of all Rugby s stakeholders, as well as ensuring that they have the opportunity to directly benefit from the success of the game at the elite level. In the case of our clubs and sub unions, we believe that their most important role is to create an environment for our Rugby communities to participate and enjoy our game, while allowing Queensland Rugby to fulfil its primary charter, to increase visibility and participation of our game, effectively manage the various competition structures, and govern the Code in line with sports best practices, for the prosperity of all Queensland Rugby stakeholders. Through the framework of the Future Generation strategy I am pleased to report that Queensland Rugby achieved the following milestones in 2012: - Double digit participation growth for the second consecutive year - Increased market share in participation against our competitor codes overtaking AFL in the Queensland market For the plan to be successfully executed it was crucial that all stakeholders recognised the importance of their role and that they were committed to supporting each other in the strategies that would defend Rugby s position both on and off the field, from the elite through to the grass roots. The strategies we have implemented were also designed to increase investment into each of Queensland Rugby s major assets, the professional game and the community game, whilst growing participation, engagement and infrastructure. The future Generation strategy has three pillars. One community, one economy and one code. 6

7 - No.1 game day attendance average for the elite sporting teams in Queensland - No.1 in memberships for elite sporting teams in Queensland - Record investment through Queensland Rugby s corporate partners directly to our clubs (rebates, infrastructure & savings) - Continued strong performance in National Championships through representative pathways - Increased Government investment to Rugby at all levels of the game - Successful delivery of participation recruitment programs: o Rookies2Reds Program o Indigenous Program o Try Sevens Program In considering the many challenges that we will face over the coming years, we have initiated strategies which we believe will mitigate some of the risks to our code. We also realise the need to continue to generate a significant increase in revenue in 2013 and beyond, so that we can achieve the necessary investment for the growth of the business, while also competing with our rival codes which are benefitting from significant broadcast deals and increased investment into both elite clubs and grass roots sport. It is also critical that we continue to accelerate the scale and volume in our game, in part to ensure that we continue to have influence over national policy across a number of important areas. In 2010 we took the first decisive steps to ensure that we set a platform to consolidate and grow. In 2011 we mobilised our vast assets and co-ordinated our resources, as one unified body Queensland Rugby, and in 2012 we saw the benefits of our first strategic plan. In 2013 and beyond we will continue to build to ensure the economic growth, security and sustainability of the Code for the future generation. Best regards, Jim Carmichael Chief Executive Officer Queensland Rugby 2012 Queensland Rugby Annual Report 7

8 2012 St.George Queensland Reds The St.George Queensland Reds overcame much adversity during the 2012 Super Rugby season with their championship-winning traits of hard work, self-belief and determination all on display as the Reds won consecutive Australian Conference titles and qualified for back-to-back finals series. While Ewen McKenzie s team fell short of their ultimate goal of winning the Super Rugby competition, they remained the dominant Australian province during a season which had 11 regular season wins and included seven victories from eight matches against Australian Conference rivals. The Reds also continued their strong record against New Zealand opposition by winning three of their four matches while a six-match winning streak to end the regular season saw Queensland top the Australian Conference and host a Qualifying Final at Suncorp Stadium against the Sharks. It wasn t until the final regular season game that the Reds managed to secure their home final with a victory over the Waratahs, recording their first four-try bonus point win over New South Wales since 2003 in the process. In the end, three pieces of silverware were earned during 2012 the Australian Conference trophy, Rod MacQueen Cup (Brumbies) and Templeton Cup (NSW). The Reds won the Rod MacQueen Cup for the first time since its inception in 2005 after sweeping the Brumbies in their two game series, firstly at Suncorp Stadium in round seven before a gutsy display in Canberra in round 14. The victory over the Brumbies at Suncorp Stadium was Queensland s first ever win against their ACTbased rivals at the venue in Super Rugby. The Reds also refused to relinquish the Templeton Cup silverware they won in 2011 by successfully defending it in the first and last round encounters of the Super Rugby regular season competition against the Waratahs. These efforts were the backbone behind a season where the Reds also cleaned up at the 2012 Super Rugby Awards with scrumhalf Will Genia winning his second consecutive Australian Super Rugby Player of the Year accolade and the Reds collecting the Australian Team of the Year Award. In total, the Reds collected four of the five awards on offer with Ewen McKenzie also winning Australian Coach of the Year for a second consecutive season while Reds winger Dom Shipperley s try-scoring effort against the Melbourne Rebels in round 16 was recognised as the Try of the Year. It was the second straight year Queensland has dominated the Super Rugby Awards after their championship-winning heroics of 2011 were duly rewarded with the Reds taking out half of the awards on offer that year. Other team milestones in 2012 included Queensland s first ever Super Rugby win at Eden Park while a perfect start to the season with three straight wins against the Waratahs, Force and Rebels equalled the record-setting efforts of the great Queensland side of There were also a number of standout individual player achievements throughout the season and none more so than the goal kicking efforts of centre Mike Harris, who broke South African sharpshooter Morne Steyn s goal kicking record of 21 successful attempts in a row when he calmly slotted his 24th consecutive goal against the Western Force in round two. 8

9 The future is also looking bright for the Reds after a host of off-contracted stars also turner their back on big offers from other clubs or overseas to remain in Queensland. The re-signing frenzy was headlined by playmakers Will Genia and Quade Cooper re-committing to the Reds in the longterm by inking new three-year deals through until the end of Their signatures were a massive tick of approval for Queensland Rugby s program with each labelling the culture, team and belief within the organisation as chiefs reasons for remaining at the Reds. With strong player retention and the emergence of new stars, the future is looking bright for Queensland. Harris also successfully kicked nine goals at Suncorp Stadium that night to equal the feat of Queensland great John Eales set in back in 1996 for goals kicked in a single match. Shipperley s try against the Rebels was announced as the Try of the Year although arguably his biggest try-scoring contribution was his first five-pointer of the season, a 70-metre runaway effort after the final siren in Sydney to sink the Waratahs in round one. Shipperley ended the season with eight tries, equal second on Queensland s all-time Super Rugby season try-scoring list alongside Tim Horan and behind only Chris Latham s 10 tries scored in The Reds unearthed a host of young talent in 2012 with seven players making their Queensland debuts: Nick Frisby (Rd 4 v Sharks), Joel Rapana (Rd 6 v Force), Nathan Eyres-Brown (Rd 6 v Force), Sam Lane (Rd 7 v Brumbies), Chris Feauai-Sautia (Rd 13 v Lions), Blake Enever (Rd 16 v Rebels) and Jarrad Butler (Rd 17 v Highlanders). Of the group, it was scrumhalf Frisby and outside back Feauai-Sautia who made the biggest impact with the rookie duo both scoring in their debut games while Frisby featured at scrumhalf for 60 minutes of the Reds Qualifying Final against the Sharks when injury forced Genia to shift to the number 10 jersey. The experience within the Reds squad also grew considerably and five players received the honour of reaching their milestone 50th game for Queensland. They were Scott Higginbotham (Rd 1 v Waratahs), Digby Ioane (Rd 10 v Blues), Saia Faingaa (Rd 16 v Rebels), Ben Lucas (Rd 17 v Highlanders) and Ben Daley (Rd 18 v Waratahs) Queensland Rugby Annual Report 9

10 2012 St.George Queensland Reds Season in review Round 1 The Reds commenced their season by breaking a nine-year losing drought in Sydney and retaining the Bob Templeton Cup following some last minute heroics by winger Dom Shipperley to secure a memorable victory over the NSW Waratahs. The Reds trailed in the concluding stages of the match before Shipperley produced a piece of individual brilliance to scamper 60-metres down the right touchline to score their only try of the match in what was Queensland s first victory in Sydney since The match was played in front of 32,071 supporters at ANZ Stadium and was also flanker Scott Higginbotham s 50th game for Queensland. Round 2 The Reds claimed their second straight win over an Australian Conference rival to continue their perfect start to 2012 with a hard-fought victory against the Western Force at Suncorp Stadium. The Reds backed up their heroics against the Waratahs in Sydney with a strong 35-point effort played in front of 33,563 supporters who braved the wet and windy conditions. Tries to Radike Samo and Ben Tapuai in the opening 40 minutes put the Reds in the box seat although the Force took advantage of the Reds tiring defence to fight back to before the Reds pushed ahead and powered home for another strong win. Playmaker Mike Harris broke two goal kicking records in the match by equalling John Eales s nine successful kicks at goal in one game while also breaking the all-time Super Rugby goal kicking record with 24 successful shots in a row, breaking the previous mark of Morne Steyn with 21. Round 3 The Reds equalled their best start to a Super Rugby season since 1999 with a hard-fought 11-6 victory over the Melbourne Rebels at Suncorp Stadium. In front of a bumper crowd of 34,126, the Reds made it three wins from three games, scoring the only try of the match through winger Dom Shipperley in the 55th minute. However, it was their defence which was most impressive with the home side keeping the visitors to two penalty goals during the 80 minutes. The victory continued Queensland s perfect start to the season. Round 4 The Reds were unable to extend their early season threematch winning streak although walked away with a crucial bonus point following a loss against the Sharks in wet and windy Durban. For the second straight year the Reds also wore specially designed jerseys for the Reds For Africa campaign, with their three tries scored raising $6,000 for the initiative supporting World Vision Australia s Water for the World program in Burundi. The match did marked the debut game for rising Reds scrumhalf Nick Frisby who scored in his first game in the Reds jersey. Round 5 Injuries to key personnel crippled the Reds in their second tour match of Africa with their recent run of success against South Africa s Bulls coming to an end courtesy of a 61-8 round five defeat in Pretoria. The Bulls proved too strong at their Loftus Versfeld fortress, scoring their first victory over the Reds since 2009 after the Queenslanders had been successful in 2011 (39-30) and 2010 (19-12) at Suncorp Stadium. Round 6 The Reds returned to Australia with depleted playing stocks and their three-match road tour came to a disappointing end with the Reds losers against the Western Force in Perth. The Reds used the opportunity to inject young blood into the side with outside backs Joel Rapana and Nathan Eyres-Brown both making their Queensland provincial debuts. 10

11 Round 7 The Reds made a welcome return to their winning ways by defeating then Australian Conference leaders, the ACT Brumbies, at Suncorp Stadium. The win was the Reds first ever over the Brumbies at Suncorp Stadium and only their second in Brisbane since beating the ACT-side in 1999 at Ballymore. In front of a strong crowd of 31,479, the Reds held a 14-0 lead at halftime courtesy of a brace of tries to backrower Scott Higginbotham, who opened the scoring in the 25th minute and crossed again in the 28th. Using his fourth player in the No.10 jersey for the season, coach Ewen McKenzie uncovered a bright playmaking talent in debutant Sam Lane, who kicked two conversions and two penalties and also showcased his courage and willingness to back himself in chipping ahead to set up his side s second try. Round 8: Bye Round 9 The Reds produced a gutsy and spirited display, although were unable to avoid their first loss at home in 2012 after falling to South African conference leaders the Stormers, 23-13, at Suncorp Stadium. The Queenslanders endured a horrific opening eight minutes where they lost flyhalf Sam Lane and centre Ben Tapuai to serious injuries, although showed plenty of courage to be within 10 points with a quarter of the match left to play. The Reds stormed home in front of 31,548 fans and were the only team to cross in the second half through inspirational captain James Horwill but were unable to capitalise on a number of other try-scoring opportunities as the South Africans defence held strong. Round 10 The Reds recorded their first-ever victory at Eden Park as they celebrated Digby Ioane s 50th game for Queensland with a Super Rugby win in Auckland. Before round 10 s encounter against the Blues, the Reds had failed on all previous attempts at Eden Park since Super Rugby commenced in 1996, with their only victory away from Brisbane against the Blues coming in 2009 at North Harbour Stadium. The showmanship of Ioane has made the talented outside back a much loved figure for the Reds and he became the latest representative to celebrate his 50th game for the state, scoring a try in his milestone game. Round 11 The Reds scored the only try in a 2011 Super Rugby Final rematch against the Crusaders, who came from behind to secure a narrow victory in Christchurch. Reds hooker James Hanson opened the scoring in the second minute of the match, although the Queenslanders were eventually outdone by five Crusaders penalty goals resulting from a 17-7 penalty count advantage in favour of the home side. The Reds entered the match with the right intent and strategy and led 11-9 with eight minutes remaining after dominating the breakdown and physical battle in defence, however ill discipline let them down. Round 12 The Reds ran rampant in the afternoon sun to score their first four-try bonus point of the season in a victory over eventual champions, the Chiefs, at Suncorp Stadium. In front of a strong crowd of 36,479 on Mother s Day, the Reds scored five tries to four to end the Chiefs nine game winning streak, while giving their chances of qualifying for back-to-back Super Rugby finals a boost. Trailing at halftime, after the competition pacesetting Chiefs had scored three tries in ten minutes, the Reds scored first after halftime to level scores at 22-all through Scott Higginbotham, before Will Genia and Saia Faingaa scored in the second half to seal the inspired win. Round 13 Reds playmaker Quade Cooper made a successful return from injury in round 13 as the Reds collected maximum points in their Super Rugby victory over the Lions at Suncorp Stadium. Leading 13-6 at halftime after in-form teenage flanker Liam Gill crossed for the first try of the match, the Reds broke free in the second half with tries to hooker Saia Faingaa, debutant winger Chris Feauai-Sautia and a trademark long range effort from star halfback Will Genia securing the all-important bonus point. The match also marked an individual milestone for Mike Harris who eclipsed 100 points for the season. Round 14 The Reds won the Rod MacQueen Cup for the first time in Super Rugby history as their finals chances received a massive boost following a derby victory over the ACT Brumbies in Canberra. The game came down to the wire with the Brumbies missing what would have been a match-winning penalty goal after the final siren, giving the Reds just their second ever Super Rugby victory in Canberra against the Brumbies. Fullback Luke Morahan was the only try scorer from the match while centre Mike Harris enjoyed a perfect night with the boot, kicking one conversion and two penalties. Round 15: Bye 2012 Queensland Rugby Annual Report 11

12 Round 16 The Reds recorded a commanding bonus-point victory over the Rebels in Melbourne as they continued their surge up the Super Rugby ladder. The monthlong competition break didn t slow the Reds growing momentum, the four-tries-to-two triumph their fourth straight Super Rugby success. It was a milestone encounter for Reds hooker Saia Faingaa who played his 50th game for Queensland while promising young lock Blake Enever made his provincial and Super Rugby debut. Round 17 The Reds continued their charge towards the Super Rugby finals after recording a gutsy victory over the Highlanders in Queensland Rugby s inaugural Indigenous Round at Suncorp Stadium. The Reds held off a spirited finish from the Highlanders who threatened to steal the win in the closing minutes of the match after reserve hooker Chris King scored a try to pull the deficit back to six points. With two minutes on the clock, the visitors were looking to end their season on a high with another try, however strong defence by the Reds on their own line saw the reigning champions repel the Highlanders attack to secure the six-point victory in front of 33,899 fans. Scrumhalf Ben Lucas celebrated his 50th Super Rugby game with a win while backrower Jarrad Butler pulled on the Reds jersey for the first time. Round 18 The Reds entered the final round needing a four-try bonus point victory over the NSW Waratahs to finish at the top of the Australian Conference for a second consecutive year and qualify for back-to-back finals series. They did that, and more, with a magical five-try effort in front of an Australian Super Rugby season high crowd of 41,533. The Reds won the match after reaching the four-try mark with 29 minutes to play when winger Dom Shipperley found the chalk to record his eighth try of the year. The win saw the Reds retain the Templeton Cup for the second time in 2012 while the four-try bonus point was Queensland s first over NSW since It was also a night to remember for prop Ben Daley who celebrated his 50th game for Queensland. Qualifying Final The Reds six-match winning streak came to an end when the defending champions went down to the Sharks in their Super Rugby Qualifying Final at Suncorp Stadium, ending an impressive bid for back-to-back Super Rugby titles. The Reds had been in finals mode since round 12 where they were forced to go six games without defeat to win the Australian Conference, a valiant performance which was highlighted by their must-win bonus-point victory against the Waratahs. The Reds entered the match having won 21 of their past 23 matches at their Fortress Suncorp Stadium, however were unable to continue writing their fairytale script with the in form Sharks victorious three-tries-to-two in front of 36,571 fans. 12

13 2012 Pilecki Medal Pilecki Medal Count Round-By-Round Round One v Waratahs Round Eleven v Crusaders Dom Shipperley 40 Liam Gill 49 Scott Higginbotham 22 Greg Holmes 21 Mike Harris 14 Anthony Faingaa 19 Round Two v Force Round Twelve v Chiefs Jake Schatz 26 Liam Gill 50 James Slipper 22 Luke Morahan 22 Ben Tapuai 14 Will Genia 16 Round Three v Rebels Round Thirteen v Lions Scott Higginbotham 34 Will Genia 40 Jake Schatz 29 James Slipper 25 James Slipper 14 Greg Holmes 19 Round Four v Sharks Round Fourteen v Brumbies Digby Ioane 36 Luke Morahan 52 Scott Higginbotham 28 James Slipper 27 Rod Davies 16 Greg Holmes 15 Top 10 James Slipper 272 Scott Higginbotham 226 Liam Gill 202 Jake Schatz 168 Will Genia 153 Luke Morahan 105 Ben Tapuai 93 Greg Holmes 92 Mike Harris 85 Adam Wallace-Harrison 78 Round Five v Bulls Round Sixteen v Rebels Scott Higginbotham 37 Adam Wallace-Harrison 41 Jake Schatz 26 Rob Simmons 29 Jono Lance 17 Jake Schatz 19 Round Six v Force Round Seventeen v Highlanders Ben Tapuai 36 Quade Cooper 34 James Slipper 35 James Slipper 33 Liam Gill 23 Jake Schatz 15 Round Seven v Brumbies Round Eighteen v Waratahs Sam Lane 32 Jake Schatz 23 Aidan Toua 26 Scott Higginbotham 19 Liam Gill 19 James Slipper 18 Round Nine v Stormers Qualifying Final v Sharks Rob Simmons 30 Scott Higginbotham 18 Scott Higginbotham 23 Adam Wallace-Harrison 17 James Slipper 22 James Hanson 16 Round Ten v Blues Ben Lucas 32 Liam Gill 24 Will Genia Queensland Rugby Annual Report 13

14 2012 St.George Queensland Reds Statistics Waratahs Force Rebels Sharks Bulls Force Brumbies Feb 25, 2012 March 3, 2012 March 10, 2012 March 17, 2012 ANZ Stadium Suncorp Stadium Suncorp Stadium Mr Price Kings Park March 24, 2012 Loftus Versfeld March 31, 2012 NIB Stadium April 6, 2012 Suncorp Stadium Sydney Brisbane Brisbane Durban Pretoria Perth Brisbane Crowd 32,071 33,563 34,126 21,479 23,541 13,034 31, Reds Reds Reds Sharks 61-8 Bulls Force Reds Player Pos Pos Pos Pos Pos Pos Pos Cooper, Quade Daley, Ben Davies, Rod Faingaa, Anthony 13 Faingaa, Saia Feauai-Sautia, Chris Genia, Will Gill, Liam Hanson, James Harris, Mike Higginbotham, Scott Holmes, Greg Horwill, James Humphries, Van 18 DNP 18 DNP Hynes, Peter Ioane, Digby Lance, Jono 22 DNP Lucas, Ben McDuling, David Morahan, Luke Quirk, Eddie Robinson, Beau Samo, Radike DNP Schatz, Jake Shepherdson, Guy Shipperley, Dom Simmons, Rob Slipper, James Tapuai, Ben Toua, Aidan 13 Wallace-Harrison, Adam Anae, Albert 26 DNP DNP Davis, Kevin Frisby, Nick Murphy, Dallan DNP Seuteni, Ulupano Eyres-Brown, Nathan DNP Rapana, Joel 13 Lane, Sam 10 Enever, Blake Butler, Jarrad Key: Queensland Debut Captain 14

15 Stormers Blues Crusaders Chiefs Lions Brumbies Rebels Highlanders April 20, 2012 April 27, 2012 May 6, 2012 May 13, 2012 May 19, 2012 May 26, /06/12 July 6, 2012 Suncorp Stadium Eden Park AMI Stadium Suncorp Stadium Suncorp Stadium Canberra Stadium AAMI Park Suncorp Stadium Brisbane Auckland Christchurch Brisbane Brisbane Canberra Melbourne Brisbane 31,548 12,111 17,500 36,479 31,118 16,123 14,110 33, Stormers Reds Crusaders Reds Reds Reds Reds Reds Pos Pos Pos Pos Pos Pos Pos Pos DNP DNP DNP DNP DNP 21 DNP DNP DNP Key: Queensland Debut Captain 2012 Queensland Rugby Annual Report 15

16 Waratahs Qualifying Final (Sharks) July 14, 2012 July 21, 2012 Suncorp Stadium Brisbane Suncorp Stadium Brisbane Crowd 41,533 36, Reds Sharks Player Pos Pos 2012 caps 2012 Pts SR Pts SR caps Qld pts Qld caps Cooper, Quade Daley, Ben Davies, Rod Faingaa, Anthony Faingaa, Saia Feauai-Sautia, Chris Genia, Will Gill, Liam Hanson, James Harris, Mike Higginbotham, Scott Holmes, Greg Horwill, James Humphries, Van Hynes, Peter Ioane, Digby Lance, Jono Lucas, Ben McDuling, David Morahan, Luke Quirk, Eddie Robinson, Beau Samo, Radike Schatz, Jake Shepherdson, Guy Shipperley, Dom Simmons, Rob Slipper, James Tapuai, Ben Toua, Aidan Wallace-Harrison, Adam Anae, Albert Davis, Kevin Frisby, Nick Murphy, Dallan Seuteni, Ulupano Eyres-Brown, Nathan Rapana, Joel Lane, Sam Enever, Blake Butler, Jarrad Key: Queensland Debut Captain

17 2012 Community Rugby In 2012, Queensland Rugby created new ways to introduce male and female participants to Rugby while also building upon the existing programs and pathways provided to both senior and junior players across the state. Queensland Rugby achieved record growth in participation in 2012 to continue its position as one of the largest participation sports in the competitive Queensland marketplace. While 2011 was a milestone year for the St.George Queensland Reds claiming their first Super Rugby title in the professional era, 2012 was also an important year for the code with a 49.85% increase in total participation achieved year on year. QRU invested significant infrastructure into building the growth and scale of the code and the end result was over 187,000 participants enjoying Rugby in some capacity throughout the year, reflecting the governing body s commitment to the long term success and sustainability of the game. In regular participation, which excludes sampling figures, QRU recorded its largest percentage increase to date with a 37% rise between 2011 and 2012, which represents 108% growth since 2009 and equates to a 6.05% increase in national market share from 2011 to a record 37.3 per cent, marginally behind NSW (37.4%). With a key focus on juniors, Queensland s youth were able to experience Rugby in a variety of ways across 12 months of the year. QRU development officers were stationed across the state to deliver programming which included Try Sevens week, ARU s Walla Rugby and Super Rugby Weeks along with Queensland Rugby s newest addition Rookies2Reds, which had a breakthrough inaugural year. Queensland Rugby introduced Rookies2Reds in 2012 to rival national junior development programs such as AFL s Auskick, In2Cricket and Netball s Net Set Go. The introductory program attracted over 5,000 participants throughout Queensland in 2012 with 92% of participants and parents saying they would return to the program in Further game development milestones were achieved as part of the Future Generation strategy and specifically under the pillar of One Rugby Economy with Queensland Rugby Corporate Partner Investment to clubs up 14% from 2011 and Government investment to clubs increasing by 12% year on year. On the field, the Reds weren t the only team to claim national honours by winning Super Rugby s Australian Conference title. Queensland won the National 16 Boys competition in Sydney and also the National Under 18 Girls Sevens competitions and the National Women s Sevens event. Queensland White, the states B team, finished third in U16s Boys and U18s Girls and finished 7th in the National Women s Sevens. With focus on a One Rugby Economy, bringing all of Queensland Rugby s assets together and working collectively with common ambition has breathed new life into the game and the increase in participation is testament to the efforts of everyone working within the sport around the state. The future of our game appears healthy and the efforts of everyone from the games administrators to the volunteers, is ensuring the sustainability of Rugby for the next generation. Rookies2Reds Rookies2Reds had a strong inaugural year in 2012, with more than 5,000 participants taking part in the program across 176 centres that were launched throughout the state. The Rookies2Reds program is designed to introduce children to the game of Rugby in a fun and safe environment while promoting a healthy and active lifestyle. It also provides children with the chance to emulate their favourite Reds stars. Rookies2Reds was well received in a participant survey across the state with 92% of parents and participants indicating they would return to the program in 2013 along with a 98% positive customer service rating. In 2013, Rookies2Reds has extended its reach and will cater for 5-11 year old children across three age brackets: Little Legends (5-7) Junior Champs (8-9) Future Stars (10-11) The program will be rolled out across Queensland through the QRU s Game Development unit and will look to build upon its achievements in 2012 as Queensland Rugby looks to attract 7,000 participants in Queensland Rugby Annual Report 17

18 Sevens In partnership with Events Queensland, Queensland Rugby has introduced a variety Sevens programming and events that will continue to drive significant growth into new markets. With Sevens currently a Commonwealth Games and soon to be Olympic sport come 2016, Queensland Rugby has created and implemented the following programs to deliver the following outcomes for the Code: Introduce new participants to Rugby. Create a new pathway for participants to be recognised and selected for representative honours. A critical component to the longevity and growth of the game in Queensland, Sevens Rugby will drive Rugby into new markets and ensure continued growth across all indicators. Sevens Rugby provides a unique opportunity for all levels and abilities to participate in the game. Queensland Schools 7 s Championship (Q7 s) The Q7 s program is designed to provide opportunities for schools from around Queensland to compete in one of ten regional carnivals and qualify for the Q7 s Finals which were held at The Southport School on the Gold Coast. Keebra Park State High School took out the championships for the third time defeating St. Brendan s College Yeppoon, in the Grand Final. Keebra Park, St. Brendan s and Brisbane State High all qualified to compete at the National Schools Championships which Keebra Park went onto to win for the third straight year also saw the introduction of the Under 12 Queensland Schools Sevens Championships as part of the Q7 s program where Kruger State School took out the Under 12 title defeating Richlands State School 40-5 at Ballymore Highlights: Queensland Reds Try 7 s The Queensland Reds TrySevens program encourages schools around Queensland to play Sevens Rugby in the lead up to the IRB Sevens World Sevens event on the Gold Coast. The initiative was delivered in partnership with Events Queensland to expose children to the exciting Rugby Sevens format and also encourage schools to get kids active and have fun in a safe and enjoyable environment Highlights: 16,297 students participated in the program. 68 schools signed up to take part in the program. Gold coast Corporate Tag Sevens Again, in partnership with Events Queensland, Queensland Rugby hosted the inaugural Gold Coast Corporate Tag Sevens event at Broadbeach as part of the Queensland Sevens Festival in the week leading up to the Gold Coast Sevens Fever Pitch at Skilled Park. The event was introduced as a unique way for Rugby s corporate community to celebrate our game and engage with like-minded organisations as a pathway to new business opportunities. Across four pools, 24 corporate teams converged on the Gold Coast to compete in the event including two Queensland legends teams made up of former Queensland Reds greats. Each team wore jerseys representing one of the IRB Sevens nations and the winner of each pool went through to the semi-finals. The inaugural winners of the event was Prototype Commercial Furniture, who defeated the team from Volvo in the final. Keebra Park State School wins the Queensland and National Championship for the third straight year. More than 1,000 students and 100 schools participated in the Q7 s Championships in 2012 with the final 24 teams selected from the 10 regional qualifying finals. 18

19 Ballymore Cup The Ballymore Cup continues to drive growth into the schools market across Queensland with 133 schools participating in the 2012 competition. Central Queensland proved itself as a region of growth for young Rugby talent with Rockhampton Grammar School and St Brendan s Yeppoon taking out the U18 and U15 Ballymore Cup titles respectively. The state-wide Ballymore Cup is Queensland s largest schoolboy Rugby competition and gives schools that are new to Rugby, as well as the best schoolboy teams from regional Queensland, the opportunity to play for representative honours. The Ballymore Cup is a crucial element of Queensland Rugby s Development pathway, providing non-traditional schools and schools from regional areas with the chance to compete at a higher level. Highlights: Rockhampton Grammar defeated Downlands College in the U18 Grand final St. Brendan s Yeppoon defeats St.Teresa s Catholic College from the Sunshine Coast in the U15 Grand Final. Under 18 U18 - Semi Final (1) U18 - Semi Final (2) 3/4 Playoff Final Under 15 Semi Final (1) Semi Final (2) 3/4 Playoff Final Downlands College 15 Sunshine Coast Grammar School Rockhampton Grammar School Pacific Pines SHS 20 Pacific Pines SHS 21 Sunshine Coast Grammar School Rockhampton Grammar School St Teresa s Catholic College St Brendan's Yeppoon All Saints Anglican School St Brendan's Yeppoon 36 Downlands College Dalby SHS All Saints Anglican 3 School 21 Dalby SHS 0 22 St Teresa s Catholic College 10 Indigenous Program In 2010, Queensland Rugby conducted a pilot program, as part of a private partnership, to visit remote Indigenous communities in Queensland s far North West region. The primary objective of the Indigenous Community Engagement Program was to engage children in the communities of Doomadgee and Mornington Island, with outcomes linked to the delivery of key messages around the social and health issues prevalent to Indigenous communities. Specifically, the areas of: Truancy Healthy & Active Lifestyle Choices The use of role models such as our elite players, the Reds, along with an attractive activity such as Rugby was seen as an effective way to deliver these messages. The success of this pilot led to a partnership being developed with Department of Employment Education Workplace Relations (DEEWR) for the regular delivery of the Queensland Rugby Indigenous Program into a number of Indigenous Communities. After a comprehensive review of the program in 2011, Queensland Rugby developed the second part of their Indigenous Program that falls under the Education and Employment pillars, the Learn, Earn Legend! program. Queensland Rugby worked with DEEWR throughout 2012 to deliver the Learn Earn Legend! Program to young Indigenous Queenslanders. The partnership promoted program messages to stay at school, get that job and be a legend for themselves, their family and their community. In 2012, Queensland Rugby mentored 44 Indigenous students across Queensland providing support through players, staff and our corporate network to ensure children complete their final year of education and placement into employment or tertiary training. Queensland Rugby has also gone onto form other partnerships within the Indigenous program including Mission Australia and Leighton Contractors, helping members of Indigenous communities seek job opportunities also saw the Queensland Reds host their inaugural Indigenous Round, a celebration of Indigenous culture and heritage which took place in the Reds round 17 match against the Highlanders. The match coincided with NAIDOC week and provided the Rugby community with the opportunity to celebrate Australia s Indigenous culture and heritage on an international stage Queensland Rugby Annual Report 19

20 Special edition jerseys were created from the artwork of Indigenous Australian artist Stephen Hogarth specifically for the occasion titled You Belong and were then auctioned off post game with funds going back into the Indigenous Program. Volunteer Education Queensland Rugby worked hard throughout 2012 to further educate the volunteers associated with Rugby around the state and significant increases were seen in various areas. Queensland Rugby ran considerably more Smart Rugby, Coaching Kids Rugby, and Foundation courses in previous years, leading to a rise in participation figures across all three courses and a 6% increase in overall compliance for Smart Rugby, a 44% increase in Coaching Kids Rugby Compliance, and a 35% increase in total Foundation Course Accreditations. There was also a 9% increase in total Level 1 Coaching Accreditations as well as an 11% increase in total Level 2 Coaching Accreditations, meaning that the overall standard of coaching offered to Queensland players is vastly improving year-on-year. There was also a substantial move to better educate Queensland Referees and overall there was a 65% increase in accredited Level 1 Referee participants and the number of participants taking part in the Level 1 referee coaching courses more than tripled. Queensland Rugby also ran the first ever Advanced Referee Seminar where a total of 41 participants took part. 20