NQ Cowboys launch 2024 Defence Jersey for ANZAC round

The Cowboys have turned to the 3rd Brigade for inspiration for their 2024 Defence jerseys, taking a community approach to honour those who have served. See the photos.

Jami Roberts

less than 2 min read

March 6, 2024 - 5:08PM

Townsville Bulletin

Private Alex Pilliris from the 3rd Battalion, Cowboys players Jamayne Taunoa-Brown and Wil Sullivan, and Private Luke Turch from the 3rd Battalion wearing the 2024 Defence Jerseys. Picture: Shae Beplate.

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Cowboys players climbed on top of Army tanks alongside soldiers from the 3rd Brigade on Wednesday, putting on display their strong relationship for the launch of the 2024 Defence jersey.

While previous Defence jerseys have played a significant role in paying homage to those who have served and sacrificed their lives for their country, this year’s jersey is more personal to Australia’s largest Garrison city.

The main imagery on the front of the jersey is a depiction of soldiers from the 3rd Battalion conducting a trench assault during Exercise Brolga Run in 2023.

Cowboys players Jamayne Taunoa-Brown and Wil Sullivan, wearing the 2024 Defence Jerseys. Picture: Shae Beplate.

Australian Army Combat Training Centre Commander Colonel Ben McLennan said that this jersey was a symbol of the connection between the Cowboys and the Australian Defence Force.

“What you can see on the photos is infantry soldiers representing the entire brigade, fighting through a trench system, which is one of the toughest things that you can do, not dissimilar in some ways to the tough things that the Cowboys do,” he said.

Colonel Ben McLennan at the Cowboys Defence Jersey launch. Picture: Shae Beplate.

Cowboys CEO Jeff Reibel at the Defence Jersey launch. Picture: Shae Beplate.

The back of the jersey features the words ‘First Ashore’ which is a nod to the landing at Anzac Cove in Gallipoli where 3rd Brigade was the first on the sand.

On the inside collar are the dates 1914 to 2024 to commemorate the 110 year anniversary since the forming of the 3rd Brigade.

Cowboys CEO Jeff Reibel said that the jerseys will be worn during the Anzac round on April 27th during the Cowboys home game against the Penrith Panthers.

“In Townsville one fifth of the population has something to do with the Army or is a returning veteran. We engage authentically with the community every day in Defence is right up there with part of that,” he said.