In a powerful new partnership that puts the spotlight on local talent, the Crisafulli Government is teaming up with the North Queensland Cowboys to champion women in manufacturing—and inspire the next generation of regional trailblazers.
As part of this exciting initiative, Women in Manufacturing stories will light up the big screens at Queensland Country Bank Stadium throughout the NRL and NRLW season, showcasing the incredible contributions women are making in one of Queensland’s most important industries.
A Homegrown Push for Big Opportunities
This campaign is all about showing young women—especially those growing up in regional Queensland—that they can design, build, and innovate with the best of them.
From match day promotions to business development opportunities for regional manufacturers, the partnership will celebrate real success stories and open doors for more women to follow in their footsteps.
Minister for Manufacturing Dale Last said teaming up with the Cowboys was a smart way to reach local families and future leaders.
“We’ve got a thriving manufacturing scene in Townsville, backed by a world-class Manufacturing Hub,” Minister Last said.
“By working with the Cowboys—one of the NRL’s most respected and community-focused clubs—we’re making sure young women across the north see that they have a place in this growing industry.”
Local Industry, Local Impact
The campaign is particularly timely for North Queensland, where manufacturing is already a massive contributor to the local economy—$1.3 billion annually in Townsville alone.
Whether it’s food production, textiles, advanced robotics or defence tech, the region is leading the way—and now, more women will be encouraged to step into these exciting roles.
Cowboys CEO Jeff Reibel said the club was proud to use its platform to promote economic opportunity for women in the north.
“Together with the Queensland Government, we’re putting women in manufacturing front and centre,” Mr Reibel said.
“This partnership also supports our NRLW team and Cowboys House program—it’s about lifting up our whole community.”
Breaking Barriers, Building Futures
While around 180,000 Queenslanders work in manufacturing, only one in four are women—and local MPs say it’s time to change that.
Adam Baillie (Townsville): “Manufacturing is one of Queensland’s biggest economic drivers—and it’s time more women shared in the benefits.”
Janelle Poole (Mundingburra): “More women in trades and technical roles means greater innovation and stronger businesses.”
Natalie Marr (Thuringowa): “This is about creating long-term opportunities and showing that there’s no limit to what North Queensland women can achieve.”
A Win for Women, A Win for the North
With the Cowboys and the Crisafulli Government on the same team, this partnership is more than just a campaign—it’s a celebration of regional strength and a call to action for the next generation of manufacturing leaders.
