QUT has signed on as a major partner of the Queensland Rugby Union (QRU) for the next three years.
The historic agreement to become the Queensland Reds Education Partner will create education pathways for players and work-integrated learning for QUT students.
QUT Vice-President (Business Development) Professor Mark Harvey said the partnership would also highlight the possibilities of a university education to remote and rural communities, with the QUT logo appearing on a range of player jerseys.
The logo will be on the front of the jerseys of Queensland’s elite pathways teams – U15s, U16s and U19s – as well as on the Reds’ media polo, wet weather jacket and media cap, showcasing QUT to communities throughout Queensland, Australia and abroad.
Professor Harvey said the agreement would give QUT students the opportunity for work placement at Ballymore in the Professional Rugby, Game Development, Commercial, Marketing and Communications departments.
“Some of our best students will have the opportunity to work within the QRU to further develop their skills and attributes in a professional sporting organisation,” he said.
“This will support students on their journey from high school to graduation and beyond and will give the chance for the QRU to benefit from the knowledge and expertise of some of the state’s brightest young minds.”
Professor Harvey said the partnership went both ways, and insights from professional rugby union could feed into research projects and the university curriculum.
“Developing collaborations with industry and business ensures we develop graduates who are job-ready in a rapidly changing work environment,” Professor Harvey said.
The partnership provides a direct link to tertiary education for Queensland’s Super Rugby Pacific and Super W players, shaping their future post-rugby, as well as offering access to QUT’s facilities across both campuses.
As part of the agreement, QUT will also work with the QRU to increase opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
QRU CEO David Hanham said: “We’re proud to partner with world class Queensland institution in QUT.
“It’s been clear throughout all of our conversations with QUT that we are extremely aligned in our values, drive and passion.
“This partnership will provide a wealth of opportunities for players and students alike, and our platform can help elevate QUT’s outstanding reputation.
“By the same token, QUT’s expertise across a number of fields will support the growth and development of Rugby in our state.
“We are looking forward to seeing our relationship truly come to life in the coming years.”
Media contact:
Madeline Healy, QUT Media, 07 3138 3083 m5.healy@qut.edu.au
After hours: media@qut.edu.au
