Cherbourg Hornets celebrating their grand final win at the 2025 Queensland Murri Carnival. Image: Cherbourg Aboriginal Junior Rugby League Incorporated 2025 Facebook
The Cherbourg Hornets’ thrilling win in the 2025 Queensland Murri Rugby League Carnival men’s division was not just a victory for the players and coaches — it was a triumph for the health and spirit of the Cherbourg (Waka Waka country) community.
As a requirement of participating in the Murri Carnival, players had to take a Well Person’s Health Check (aka the 715-health check) before taking to the field.
The Well Person’s Health Check is a free, comprehensive health assessment for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people of all ages, designed to identify early risks of illnesses and chronic disease and improve long-term health outcomes.
CRAICCHS Clinical Services Coordinator Amber Saltner said approximately 100 players came through the health service for their health check.
“Multiple teams from Cherbourg and surrounds competed in this year’s carnival, including the Cherbourg Men’s, Cherbourg Women’s, Murgon Murris, Coastal Connections, Bruce Fisher Memorial and the Under 16s,” she said.
That wasn’t the only CRAICCHS connection to the big win.
CRACICHS staff member Bernard Hopkins served as trainer and league safety officer for the Men’s side, while Keith Gadd Jr — son of staff member Keith Gadd — captained the team to victory.
Ms Saltner was also the acting coach of the women’s side, the Cherbourg Hornettes, who made it through to the quarter finals.
“It was an awesome experience coaching the women’s team, watching the younger ladies coming through and representing a small community like Cherbourg at such a big event,” she said.
“Witnessing them build their confidence and resilience over the few days of the carnival was really fulfilling to see.”
She said the Hornettes not only learnt from the experience, but it strengthened their determination to “come back bigger and stronger next year.”
CRAICCHS was also proud to support a grassroots community club like the Hornets.
“It’s important for CRAICCHS to sponsor grassroots teams as it supports the development of local talent, providing opportunities for individuals to grow and enhance their skills, whilst engaging in physical activity, which also has a positive impact on mental wellbeing,” Ms Saltner said.
This year’s Queensland Murri Carnival was also the largest in the event’s history with 123 teams entered in the competitions across all eight divisions.
