A partnership between two of Mackay’s most recognisable brands will take off once again to help grow the next generation of sporting heroes while putting the region on the map.
Mackay Airport has pledged its continued major sponsorship of the Mackay Cutters rugby league club ahead of what is set to be a memorable 2023 season.
The Cutters also revealed their 2023 home jersey, a throwback design modelled on their premiership 2013 colours, worn by some of the game’s most respected and successful players including Michael Morgan and Jason Taumalolo.
With the Mackay Cutters’ playing 11 of their 20 2023 Hostplus Cup round matches away from Mackay, Head Coach Michael Comerford said a partnership with Mackay Airport is a fitting one.
“We spend a fair bit of time (at the airport),” he laughed.
“I think it’s a show of faith to have such a big organisation to back the Cutters and support them year on year.
“We’re a club that’s built on the contribution of the sponsors and community organisations so it’s invaluable for us … to continue to grow.”
Mackay Airport Head of Operations Adrian Miles said the partnership with the Cutters made sense from both a community and business perspective.
“The Mackay community are invested in the Cutters’ success and the atmosphere at the game is incredible,” he said.
“The Cutters’ reach goes well beyond Mackay and their games help to promote travel to Mackay and further put the region on the map.
“Supporting community clubs at a grassroots level is a long-term investment in our town and future role models.”
Mackay Cutters Chief Executive Officer Mitch Cook said values such as community and inclusivity were integral to the club.
“We are very grateful for the support of our community; it really is second to none,” he said.
“Having the backing of well-known corporate partners like Mackay Airport means it’s also a priority for us to reinvest in our town and give back at every opportunity.
“For us, it’s more than us just turning up at games, we want to be involved.
“We are dedicated to our players’ growth, not only on the field, but also toward their education, job opportunities and as serving members of the community.”
2023 is a big year for the Mackay Cutters, marking 15 years since the club entered the Queensland competition and 10 since their first and only premiership.
The Cutters have commemorated this by launching their 2023 home jersey, a throwback to their 2013 premiership-winning strip.
“We have been acknowledging the past with some history sessions with the playing group to try and get them to understand what’s come before them,” said Mr Comerford.
But before the Cutters get the chance to wear their new jersey in front of a home crowd, they face Wynnum-Manly Seagulls at Wynnum to kick off the 2023 Hostplus Cup and BMD Premiership seasons.
“We’re looking good,” said Hostplus Cup prop Hiale Roycroft.
“Our focus, going into Wynnum, knowing that they’ve got a big pack, we’ve got to try and bash that, so we’ve had a good review session to get an idea going into round one.”
Ahead of the Cutters first BMD Premiership season, centre Jasmine Peters said she’s as excited as the rest of the community.
“This is something that we really take pride in,” Ms Peters said.
“We’re just going to focus on communication and connection.
“We’re looking really good, we’re looking in form, and I just can’t wait to get there as a team.”
Mackay Airport has continued its support of the Mackay Cutters for the 2023 season. Photo supplied
The Mackay Cutters unveiled their 2023 home jersey earlier this week, a tribute to the 2013 premiership season. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie
