MEDIA RELEASE
16 September 2025
$247,900 Secured for AFL Cairns’ Youth Wellbeing Program with Hawthorn AFLW
AFL Cairns is proud to confirm that its Northern Nest Graduate Program, delivered in partnership with Hawthorn’s AFLW program, has secured $247,900 in funding through the Queensland Government’s Skilling Queenslanders for Work (SQW) initiative.
While AFL Cairns is widely recognised for delivering football competitions, our mission extends far beyond the game. At our core is a commitment to community — particularly in supporting and shaping the lives of young people. The Northern Nest Graduate Program, now in its seventh year, is a reflection of that commitment.
With the ongoing support of Hawthorn’s AFLW program, the initiative has grown from a traditional sport-focused pathway into a progressive, wellbeing-led development program. It supports Queensland residents above 15 years by providing life skills, job readiness training, cultural connection, and mental health support — all underpinned by the power of sport and strong community networks.
Craig Lees, General Manager of AFL Cairns, said: “We’re incredibly proud to be delivering more than just football. This program is about helping young people find direction, build resilience, and feel connected to their community. We thank the Queensland Government for supporting this initiative and recognising its importance in shaping the confidence of our future leaders through connection, confidence and community.”
The funding received will support the employment of a dedicated Community Manager, who will coordinate the program and engage with our delivery partners. In addition to being offered a Certificate I qualification through Major Training (RTO 6139), students will be given the opportunity to obtain other certificates relevant to the industry. The delivery of wraparound support, mentorship, and engagement in community-based projects will be led by Thrive & Connect Australia. Students will also be given access to world class gym facilities, provided with nutritious daily meals and transportation and further supported to obtain their driving licence.
The course is available to anyone over the age of 15 no longer enrolled in school, with target participants including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, women re-entering the workforce, veterans, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds and mature job-seekers. Places are limited with the first intake starting on October 7th. There is no cost to participants.
The Northern Nest Graduate Program registration flyer can be found HERE
For further information, please contact:
Craig Lees
General Manager
AFL Cairns/ Cazalys Stadium
45-61 Tills Street, Westcourt, 4879, QLD
0433 162 653 / craig@aflcairns.com.au
