In association with the North Queensland Cowboys rugby league team, Navarre helped present the 2023 14th annual Obe Gaia Challenge rugby league carnival on Palm Island, which took place on the 29th May.
Eight Townsville primary schools and a team from Magnetic Island made the round trip to the island to experience its beauty, culture, and people – as well as play some hard-fought rugby.
“The enthusiasm the kids showed on the ferry over reflects on the field when the kids get out and start to play,” said David Wheeler, HSEC Manager. “These guys are the up-and-coming [players], the future of the sport. It’s about giving back to the community we operate in.”
The Obe Geia challenge honours Obediah “Obe” Geia, the first indigenous Palm Islander to play for the National Rugby League. Obe and current Cowboys players also attended the carnival.
St Clare’s Catholic School won the challenge trophy, defeating Marian Catholic School.
The Challenge began in 2009, aiming to bring communities together and promote inclusion in North Queensland.
Navarre partnered with the Cowboys, SeaLink, selectability and Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council to present the event.
Watch the video here.
