10/12/2025 MEDIA RELEASE
AFL Cairns Announces Three-Year Partnership with Ireland’s of Cairns
For immediate release 10th December 2025
AFL Cairns is proud to announce a new three-year partnership with Ireland’s of Cairns, uniting two long-standing local institutions with a shared commitment to community, development, and the growth of Australian Rules football in Far North Queensland.
The partnership brings together AFL Cairns—home to one of the region’s largest and most inclusive sporting communities—and Ireland’s of Cairns, a highly respected iconic local dealership group with a deep history of supporting local initiatives. Together, the organisations will collaborate on programs and events designed to strengthen grassroots participation, enhance player pathways, and create more opportunities for families and young people to engage with the game.
AFL Cairns General Manager, Craig Lees, said the partnership reflects a natural alignment of values.
“AFL Cairns is extremely proud to partner with Irelands for the next three years. Both organisations have deep roots in this community, AFL Cairns celebrating 75 years of football in the region, and Irelands proudly serving Cairns families for more than a century.
This partnership brings together two iconic local brands built on shared values of community and professionalism. We’re excited to work alongside Hayden and his team and look forward to what we can achieve together for our region.”
Ireland’s of Cairns General Manager, Hayden Durrington, echoed the enthusiasm, highlighting the opportunity to invest in the next generation.
“Partnering with AFL Cairns allows us to support a highly professional organisation that brings communities together and plays such a vital role in the lives of so many local families. We’re excited to help strengthen programs that encourage participation, develop talent, and keep the Cairns community active and connected.”
As part of the agreement, Ireland’s of Cairns will feature across AFL Cairns’ major competitions and community initiatives, with joint efforts focused on expanding engagement across the region and celebrating the achievements of athletes at all levels.
Both organisations look forward to delivering meaningful outcomes for the Cairns community throughout the duration of the partnership and beyond.
For all Media Enquiries
Dave Warner
AFL Cairns
dave@aflcairns.com.au
0412 248 422
