Sport
21 December, 2025
Motor dealer and AFL seal contract
AFL Cairns has announced a three-year partnership with Ireland’s of Cairns, combining two local institutions committed to community, development and the growth of Australian Rules football in Far North Queensland.
The partnership will see AFL Cairns, home to one of the region’s largest sporting communities, collaborate with Ireland’s of Cairns, a respected local car dealership with a long history of supporting community initiatives.
Together, the organisations will deliver programs and events to strengthen grassroots participation, enhance player pathways and provide more opportunities for families and young people to engage with the game.
AFL Cairns general manager Craig Lees said the partnership reflected a natural alignment of values.
“AFL Cairns is extremely proud to partner with Ireland’s for the next three years,” he said.
“Both organisations have deep roots in this community, AFL Cairns celebrating 75 years of football in the region and Ireland’s proudly serving Cairns families for more than a century.
“This partnership brings together two iconic local brands built on shared values of community and professionalism. We’re excited to work alongside Hayden and his team and look forward to what we can achieve together for our region.”
Ireland’s of Cairns general manager Hayden Durrington said the partnership offered a chance to invest in the next generation.
“Partnering with AFL Cairns allows us to support a highly professional organisation that brings communities together and plays such a vital role in the lives of so many local families,” he said.
“We’re excited to help strengthen programs that encourage participation, develop talent and keep the Cairns community active and connected.”
Under the agreement, Ireland’s of Cairns will be featured across AFL Cairns’ major competitions and community initiatives.
Both organisations aim to expand engagement across the region and celebrate the achievements of athletes at all levels.
