We are writing to humbly request financial assistance with Travel cost and Players Levy for Jacob to attend the state championship.

We are based in Cairns and the State championship will be held in Brisbane. As a dedicated young athlete, he is honoured to have been chosen to represent FNQ for the second time in a row, however with the cost of living rising and attending the State championship it is beyond our current financial means.

We would like to share abit of Jacobs Story. Jacob is a young Torres Strait Islander with ties to many islands in the Torres Strait. He was born in Cairns 2014 but spent his first 6 years on Badu Island before moving to Western Australia with his Mum, Dad and Litte sister. In May 2021 Jacob’s mum passed away suddenly, at just 7 years old Jacob’s life changed forever but that didn’t stop him from excelling both academically and in sports.

In June 2021 Jacob relocated to Cairns with his sister to live with us and has since been in our care. As a young indigenous Athlete, Jacob is passionate and has a big heart on and off the field he has repeatedly shown great strength, leadership and has grown to be a remarkable young boy, he has proven time and time again that whatever he puts his mind to he accomplishes.

He started playing Rugby League in 2022 for the Edmonton Storms Junior League under 8’s team and is now in the under 11’s team. Since then, he has been a valuable team player, he has attended & played in many carnivals with his team and has received numerous players of the match from other teams. When Jacob is on the field playing, he is in his zone and his commitment to the team and the sport shows his love for the game.

On the 29th of April 2025 Jacob tried out for the under 12’s Peninsula team in Atherton and was successfully selected to be a part of that team, it is unfortunate that the dates of the game’s in Mount Isa conflicts with other commitments, therefore he had to humbly decline the opportunity. This did not stop him from going back to Atherton the next day on the 30th of April 2025 and trying out for the Under 11s team. It was no surprise this time that he made the team, over 2 days Jacob played 11 games and stood out to selectors, other children and their parents, this made use very proud of him on the sidelines cheering him on.

Jacob trains regularly whether is it with his junior league team, his cousin or in the backyard he has demonstrated exceptional commitment and dedication to the sport anyone would think he was born with a football in his hand.

This opportunity is a stepping stone towards achieving his ultimate goal of being a professional rugby league player and we have no doubt that he will reach it. The State championship is almost 4 weeks away and are required to cover all cost associated with travel and accommodation. Any Financial assistance will be targeted exclusively to lessen the growing cost of travel &

accommodation expenses to enable Jacob to fully participate in 2025 State Championship.

Details of Event & Cost:

Sport: 10 to 11 years Rugby League

Playing Dates: Sunday 29th June to Thursday 03 July 2025

Venue: South Pine Complex ,620 South Pine Road, Brendale

Items Cost

Levy – Estimate based of 2024

(nomination fee, photos, administration)

$730

Accommodation

28th June to 4th July 2025

$1987

Flights – Cairns to Brisbane (Return) $1976

Hire Car 28th June to 4th July 2024 $420

We strongly believe that participating in this event will not only enhance Jacob’s skills and knowledge in the sport but will also be a valuable experience both personally and professionally. We have seen the difference since attending the Peninsula trip in 2024 and can say that his skills have improve.

any assistance in any possible way, it would be greatly appreciated.