League legends the winners on Thursday Island

Not-for-profit remote store operator Community Enterprise Queensland partnered with the Torres Strait All Stars as the sponsor of the International Legends of League event on Waibene (Thursday Island).

The four-day community program brought some of the biggest names in rugby league to the Torres Strait, including Sam Thaiday, Cliff Lyons, Michael Bani, Antonio Winterstein, Ben Hannant, James Tamou and Neville Costigan, who visited schools, met Elders, and took part in community events across several islands before the feature match.

Chief Executive Officer Michael Dykes said the organisation was proud to help bring such a significant and positive event to the region.

“This event was all about community – connecting islands, inspiring young people, and celebrating the region,” Mr Dykes said.

“We are committed to supporting opportunities that strengthen wellbeing, pride and participation across the Torres Strait, and Legends of League delivered exactly that.”

As part of the sponsorship, the organisation supported game-day activities, joined community events including the bowls afternoon and Legends Dinner, and helped ensure the entire weekend remained free and family-friendly for Torres Strait communities.

Mr Dykes said seeing NRL greats engaging so closely with local students, families and Elders was one of the highlights.

“To have former NRL and Origin stars here on Waibene, spending real time in our schools and communities, was incredibly powerful,” he said.

“Our very own Rex Burke (CEQ Engagement Manager) ran out for the Legends which made us particularly proud. Events like this inspire the next generation and reinforce the importance of health, connection and culture.”

The event also featured visits to Ngurupai, Badu, Mabuiag, Erub and Waibene, along with hospital and Elders’ Village visits, coaching clinics, and community engagement activities.

Mr Dykes said the sponsorship reflected its long-standing commitment to supporting strong, healthy and connected communities throughout the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area.

CEO is a not-for-profit organisation responsible for providing goods and essential services to the Torres Strait, Cape York Peninsula and in Doomadgee and on Palm Island through its 31 stores.

CEQ manages the Islanders Board of Industry and Service and Aboriginal Business, Industry and Service stores, as well as other stores including Col Jones and Community Home and Hardware, and Mona’s Bazaar and Mitre 10 on Waibene.