Sport
14 October, 2023
NQ Games will be 'vital'
MORE than 3000 athletes from across North Queensland are expected to visit Cairns in May 2024 for the 40th edition of the largest multi-sport event in regional Australia - the North Queensland Games.
The event delivered by Cairns Regional Council and North Queensland Sports Foundation (NQSF) was officially launched at the Cairns Hockey precinct on Tuesday, marking the countdown to the games that will take place from May 3-6, 2024, across sporting venues in town.
For its 40th anniversary, the games will feature 30 sports, from Olympic and non-Olympic, to indoors, outdoors and team and extreme sports.
To add to the excitement, dual paralympic athlete Grant “Scooter” Paterson, female sport advocate and former rugby league representative Libby Cook-Black, and up-and-coming local boxer Leah Reuben were named as the Games’ ambassadors.
NQSF chairwoman Councillor Rhonda Coghlan said the NQ Games were a stepping stone for young regional athletes.
“It was only in 2016 when the games were held here and now it has rotated back to our beautiful city, we’re again thrilled to be the epicentre of regional sports in North Queensland,” Cr Coghlan said.
“The NQ Games are more than just a regional competition, they serve as a platform comparable to state level, giving our regional north Queensland athletes the stage, they deserve. We’re inspiring future generations to reach for the stars.
“And with an estimated 3000- plus competitors expected to descend on the city, Cairns will experience a significant economic injection to the tune of around $2-$3 million, not to mention the social and athlete development opportunities it brings with it.”
Chief executive of NQSF Stephen Farrell said the 2024 games were more crucial than ever with a looming 2032 Brisbane Olympics.
“With all the hype and excitement mounting for the 2032 Olympics to be hosted in Queensland, our North Queensland Games are expected to be bigger, better and more competitive than ever before,” he said.
2024 NQ Games ambassador Leah Reuben said she was excited to showcase the greatness and talent of the region’s athletes.
“It’s so exciting to come on board as ambassador. We’re very excited to hold the games here in our home where we get to compete in front of our families and friends,” Ms Reuben said. “The games will open a lot of doors and opportunities for are upcoming athletes.”
