North Queensland Cowboys in Capes program for Townsville Hospital patients

North Queensland Cowboys’ stars have swapped their Akubras for superhero capes to lift the spirits of hospital patients on their often arduous roads to recovery.

North Queensland Cowboys’ players Valentine Holmes and Tom Chester with young fan Shadrach at Ronald McDonald House in Townsville. The NRL club in conjunction with Sun Metals has launched a new Cowboys in Capes program to support patients at Townsville University Hospital and RMH. Picture: Supplied

North Queensland Cowboys’ stars have swapped their Akubras for superhero capes to lift the spirits of hospital patients on their often arduous roads to recovery.

A new Cowboys in Capes program involves club favourites such as Jake Granville and Valentine Holmes visiting North Queenslanders at Townsville University Hospital and Ronald McDonald House to lift spirits and bring positivity.

As part of the program’s inaugural year, players have visited TUH’s renal ward, cancer clinics, the children’s ward and intensive care units to meet patients from across the region, including from remote Indigenous communities.

Tanya Busoli, CEO of Brighter Lives, the official charity partner of Townsville Hospital and Health Service, said the NRL players were a hit with patients, many of whom were huge fans.

“It’s a great way to show patients and staff that the community is supporting them in their health journeys.”

Ronald McDonald House Charities North Australia CEO Tamara South said many of the families that relied on its services were “going through some of the most difficult times in their lives”.

“Long and lonely days in the hospital, sometimes hundreds of kilometres away from their own communities and support networks, can be an isolating and emotional time,” she said.

“Introducing Cowboys in Capes to our support programs has allowed us to give these families a reprieve from the difficulties they are currently facing … creating what can often become a lifelong and treasured memory.”

The hospital visits have been made possible with the support of partner Sun Metals.

“We have always focused our community support on three core areas – health, children and local benefit, and Cowboys in Capes gives us the opportunity to fulfil all three,” CEO Ron Lee said.

“It is a privilege to play a part in adding a little brightness to the lives of others, particularly during challenging times.”

In addition to Granville and Holmes, Peta Hiku, Tom Chester, Laitia Moceidreke, Kulikefu Finefeuiaki and Brendan Elliott have stopped by for photos, sign autographs and hand out gifts, as well as enjoy BBQ lunches at Ronald McDonald House.

Cowboys spokeswoman Fiona Pelling said the program had allowed participants to witness “the remarkable power of a simple gesture”.

“The visits from our players, supported by Sun Metals employees, bring not just smiles, but a renewed sense of hope to those facing challenges,” she said.

“It’s heartwarming to see our community come together, reminding us all that even in tough times, we are not alone.”

Originally published as North Queensland Cowboys in Capes program for Townsville Hospital patients