gold coast titans reconciliation action plan · rugby league is a great catalyst for strengthening...

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GOLD COAST TITANS

RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN MAY 2017 - MAY 2019

CEO FOREWORDI am delighted to present the Gold Coast Titans 2017-2019 Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) detailing our plans to promote reconciliation within our organisation and the wider community.

As a club, we realise that with profile comes responsibility to the wider community to set an example and help address many of the social issues impacting society.

This RAP is an extension of our club behaviours, particularly those of respect, inclusion and commitment. Rugby League is a great catalyst for strengthening relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and the broader Australian community, both on and off the field.

We are extremely proud to have the largest contingent of First Australian players in the NRL at the Titans. This RAP gives us the opportunity to honour the many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander players who have represented the Gold Coast Titans since its inception and allows us to formally acknowledge our links to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

In 2016 we were pleased to partner with Deadly Choices as our inaugural Indigenous Program Partner. The RAP draws on this partnership to expand our already significant contribution to the wider community.

On behalf of the Gold Coast Titans, I take this opportunity to thank Reconciliation Australia for its ongoing support in helping us develop the RAP and for the integral role it plays in promoting reconciliation between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and other Australians.

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ABOUT THE ARTWORKThe artwork featured throughout the Gold Coast Titans RAP and 2017 Indigenous jersey was painted and generously donated by Rugby League champion and Gold Coast Titans legend Preston Campbell.

The specifically designed piece is about Connection. There are similarities and differences within Indigenous nations of Australia, as well as around the world, one thing we all have in common is our understanding of ‘Connection’. Connection with nature, each other and the world around us. Our values and beliefs are what connects us as individuals, family groups and wider communities. Our Connection with culture is constantly evolving and shaping our identity in the modern world.

The many circles represent communities or tribes and the connection that we have with each other. With the Gold Coast being situated so close to the New South Wales border we have a connection with players, members and fans from both states. On one side, there is a strip of blue representing New South Wales and on the opposing side there is a strip of maroon representing Queensland. This signifies players, members and fans from differing places coming together as one.

When painting this piece of artwork for the Gold Coast Titans Indigenous jersey and to be used throughout the Gold Coast Titans RAP, Preston reflected on the great game of Rugby League and how it can bring so many people together.

CASE STUDY: INDIGENOUS ROUNDThe Gold Coast Titans have the largest contingent of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander players in the NRL so Indigenous Round is something we look forward to taking part in each year. The club sees this as a great opportunity to celebrate our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander players and their culture whilst using this game as a platform to bring different cultures together. This game exposes our players, staff and a number of local community groups to different experiences and opportunities.

In 2016, the Gold Coast Titans celebrated Indigenous Round by:

• A traditional Welcome to Country by a local Elder on-field to the crowd.

• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander performance on field.

• Traditional chalk artist on precinct.

• Preston Campbell was a guest speaker in corporate areas.

• Donation of tickets to students who participate in the Preston Campbell Foundation programs.

• Participants from the Clontarf Foundation played in the half time mini league segment and attended a meet and greet with the playing squad.

• Ryan James captained the team in Indigenous Round and had his boots painted by Preston Campbell.

• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander players wore painted football boots, painted and designed by local Aboriginal artist, Janelle McQueen.

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CASE STUDY: INDIGENOUS ROUND (CONT.)

• The Gold Coast Titans wore a special Indigenous jersey, designed by RAP working group member and local artist, Christine Slabb.

• Media session during the week promoting Indigenous Round, involving Preston Campbell and local artists who designed our jerseys and boots.

• Through online auctions of the specially designed playing jerseys and painted football boots the Gold Coast Titans raised funds for the Preston Campbell Foundation and Deadly Choices. Each charity was presented a $5,000 cheque.

We look forward to expanding on this event and making it a key event on our yearly calendar that all sponsors, members, fans and representatives of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community look forward to.

CASE STUDY: INDIGENOUS JERSEY 2016In 2016, the Gold Coast Titans revealed a specially designed Indigenous Jersey which would be worn in Round 10 of the 2016 Telstra Premiership season to celebrate the NRL’s Indigenous Round.

The jersey was designed by local Aboriginal artist, Christine Slabb.

Christine’s design represented all people from every walk of life working together for a common goal.

Whilst these specially designed jerseys were a great way to celebrate and recognise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and tradition, they also enabled the club to raise funds for the Preston Campbell Foundation and Deadly Choices. The Gold Coast Titans auctioned all of the player worn jerseys which raised over $10,000. Each charity received a $5,000 cheque from our CEO, Graham Annesley.

“All people from near and far, travel to a central place, a place of common grounds.” - Christine Slabb

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INDIGENOUS JERSEY 2017In 2017, the Gold Coast Titans revealed a specially designed Indigenous Jersey which would be worn in Round 10 and 11 of the 2017 Telstra Premiership season to celebrate the NRL’s Indigenous Round.

The jersey was designed by Gold Coast Titans and Rugby League great, Preston Campbell - Preston’s design represents connection.

“Indigenous Australian culture is diverse and varies from one nation to the next. There are similarities and differences within Indigenous nations of Australia, as well as around the world, one thing we all have in common is our understanding of ‘Connection’. Connection with nature, each other and the world around us. Our values and beliefs are what connects us as individuals, family groups and wider communities. Our Connection with culture is constantly evolving and shaping our identity in the modern world. In order to survive, we need to understand the land we walk on, the plants and animals that live amongst us and the relationship we have with other, which must be based on respect.”- Preston Campbell

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OUR VISION FOR RECONCILIATIONThe Gold Coast Titans have had a proud association with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples since the club’s inception in 2007.

The Gold Coast Titans have undertaken this Reconciliation Action Plan to ensure we continue to engage with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities whilst making a positive contribution to closing health and educational gaps between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island peoples and non-Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Our vision for reconciliation is to strengthen connections and relationships with the community, build and increase respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and their culture, to continue to acknowledge our proud Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history and to demonstrate our commitment to reconciliation to a wider audience with the overarching aim of closing health and educational gaps for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

This vision is valued by our Board of Directors, Executive Management, Administration, Coaching Staff, Playing Group and every employee and volunteer involved with the Club. Our Club will continue to build strong associations with all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples across Australia. By realising this vision, we can help influence social change for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders and other Australians.

OUR BUSINESSThe Gold Coast Titans are a professional rugby league team based on the Gold Coast in Queensland.

The Gold Coast Titans compete in the National Rugby League (NRL) competition. In 2016 the Gold Coast Titans had 10,121 members with an average attendance of 13,843 people across our twelve home games. We communicate with members and fans primarily through EDMs, phone calls (inbound/outbound) or SMS messages. At each home game we have a member’s exclusive area where we can interact with our members face to face.

In 2017, 12 of 112 staff and players of the Gold Coast Titans are of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander descent which equates to 10.71% of the organisation. 6 of the 12 hold a place in the NRL squad.

In our short history, the Gold Coast Titans have been represented by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples such as Preston Campbell and Scott Prince. The strong contribution made by these 2 players has set a high standard both on and off the field since inception of the Gold Coast Titans in 2007.

The Gold Coast Titans aim to be a successful rugby league team and a club the community can be proud of. The Gold Coast Titans harnesses the power of sport to make a real difference to the lives of young people in communities across Queensland and Northern New South Wales, several programs in the community strategy involve Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples within our catchment region.

One such program is the Titans Deadly Futures Program which aims to influence Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander high school students to choose a pathway to lead them to success but to also help them deal with setbacks and empower them to find their feet and continue on their journey. Over a course of workshops that are delivered in partnership with the Preston Campbell Foundation, participants are encouraged to engage themselves in each theme: Cultural Appreciation, Heritage & Respect, Healthy Living & Relationships, Goal Setting & Future Planning, Mental Health Awareness & Resilience, Creative Arts, Music & Dance.

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OUR BUSINESS (CONT.)

The NRL’s Indigenous Round is where the Gold Coast Titans take great pride in showcasing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, tradition and history whilst acknowledging the contribution of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. We include many local organisations in the celebrations. The Gold Coast Titans aim to be the benchmark of the NRL and are currently in the process of developing a club totem that will represent all people of the Gold Coast community.

Another integral part of our community strategy is our ongoing affiliation with official charity partners; Ronald McDonald House, White Ribbon and Livin. The Gold Coast Titans are committed to working with these charities to develop programs and initiatives for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to make a positive impact.

The RAP is developed alongside the NRL RAP framework and specifically uses the popularity of the Gold Coast Titans within the game of Rugby League to promote increased respect of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander persons. The Gold Coast Titans are committed to social change and improving health and educational outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander persons.

OUR RAPThe Gold Coast Titans have developed this “Innovate RAP” to demonstrate our ongoing commitment to recognizing and celebrating the contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to the organisation during the club’s short history.

By establishing this RAP, the club aims to further engage with the community and to further educate groups and individuals on reconciliation. In turn, our aim is that the Gold Coast community and wider Australia acknowledge the importance of reconciliation. The Gold Coast Titans encourage other organisations to create a RAP and work toward an reconciled and equitable Australia.

The Gold Coast Titans hold strong relationships with local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations such as the Preston Campbell Foundation and Deadly Choices; Through our work with these organisations and local Elders, we will continue to develop Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander engagement strategies and partnerships for community empowerment. This RAP signifies our intention to focus on improving health and educational outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island peoples through delivery of specially designed programs and workshops in our catchment region. The Gold Coast is situated on the land of the Kombumerri peoples who speak Yugambeh language.

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OUR RAP (CONT.)

Development of the RAP has been led by the club’s Community and Game Development Manager, Renee Cohen and Community Coordinator, Eden Cartwright.

The working group, including 5 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander members, involved in the development of the club’s Innovate RAP included:

• Gold Coast Titans Community and Game Development Manager – Renee Cohen (champion)

• Gold Coast Titans Community Coordinator – Eden Cartwright (champion)

• Gold Coast Titans Player Education Manager – Jennifer Cross

• Gold Coast Titans Chief Operating Officer – Tony Mestrov

• Gold Coast Titans NRL Player – Ashley Taylor

• Gold Coast Titans NRL Player – Ryan James

• Gold Coast Titans Development Officer – Kieren Wiggins

• Local Aboriginal Artist - Christine Slabb

• Preston Campbell Foundation – Kyel Dancey

The working group engaged with a wide range of external organisations and individuals to help develop the RAP. Ongoing advice was provided to the working group by representatives from each department at the Gold Coast Titans, including the playing group.

RELATIONSHIPSThe Gold Coast Titans recognise that working in partnership with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples is an important step in the process of reconciliation. As a club that plays in the NRL competition which receives vast exposure, we believe it is our obligation to lead best practices in the reconciliation process. As a club that is very much family and community minded it is critical that our relationship with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples is meaningful and sustainable.

Action Deliverable Timeline Responsibility1.1 RAP Working Group (RWG) actively monitors RAP development and implementation of actions, tracking progress and reporting

• RWG oversees the development, endorsement and launch of the RAP.

• Ensure Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are represented on the RWG.

• Meet at least twice per year to monitor and report on RAP implementation.

• Establish Terms of Reference for the RWG.• Develop an expression of interest to join the RWG

to key Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples within our sphere of influence.

• May 2017

• May 2017, 2018

• August, December 2017, 2018

• August 2017• December, 2017, 2018

Community and Game Development Manager

Community Coordinator

1.2 Celebrate, promote and participate in National Reconciliation Week (NRW

• Engage a First Australian artist to create an Indigenous themed jersey for NRL Indigenous Round for NRW.

• Invite a Titans Learning Centre Participant to participate in game day activations at least one game per year (coin toss, lead the team)

• Host an NRW event for staff and players and key external stakeholders each year

• Ensure Titans Working Group participates in an external event to recognise and celebrate NRW.

• Download Reconciliation Australia’s NRW resources and circulate to staff.

• Register all NRW events on Reconciliation Australia website

• 27 May- 3 June 2017, 2018 Community Coordinator

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Action Deliverable Timeline Responsibility 1.3 Develop and maintain mutually beneficial relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, communities and organisations to support positive outcomes

• Develop and implement an engagement plan to work with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stakeholders within Titans’ sphere of influence.

• Meet with local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations to develop guiding principles for future engagement.

• Investigate opportunities to develop joint ventures and partnerships with local organisations to create new programs or improve and enhance existing programs which can be included in the community strategy.

• December 2017

• December 2017

• December 2017

Community Coordinator Development Officer

1.4 Raise internal and external awareness of Titans RAP to promote reconciliation across our business and sector

• Communicate Gold Coast Titans RAP commitment to all departments of the club to ensure an understanding of how each department can contribute to the RAP.

• Implement a strategy to communicate our RAP to all stakeholders, which includes ensuring the Gold Coast Titans RAP is easily accessible on club website and hard copies are distributed to staff, players and external stakeholders.

• Include RAP launch in an EDM to promote launch to members, corporates and sponsors.

• Promote reconciliation through ongoing engagement with all stakeholders

• May 2017

• May 2017

• May 2017

• December 2017, 2018



RESPECTRespect is of the upmost importance at the Gold Coast Titans. This is shown through increased respect in all dealings between the Gold Coast Titans and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. The Gold Coast Titans acknowledge the importance of learning First Australian Peoples’ history, cultures and achievements. The Gold Coast Titans strongly commit to acknowledging and respecting traditions and continuous connection to Country of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Action Deliverable Timeline Responsibility2.1 Engage Titans players and employees in cultural learning opportunities to increase understanding and appreciation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, histories and achievements

• Develop and implement a cultural awareness training strategy for our staff and players which defines cultural learning needs in all areas of our business and considers various ways cultural learning can be provided (online, face to face workshops or cultural immersion).

• Cultural awareness training provided by the NRL will be utilised for staff and players.

• Investigate opportunities to work with local Traditional Owners and/or Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander consultants to develop cultural awareness training.

• Provide opportunities for RWG members, RAP champions and key leadership staff to participate in cultural training.

• Encourage staff and players to utilise Reconciliation Australia’s Share Our Pride online tool for basic insight into First Australian Peoples’ histories and cultures.

• Investigate local cultural experiences and immersion opportunities.

• Encourage and support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander players to attend the annual NRL Indigenous Players Cultural Camp.

• Encourage and support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander players to participate in the yearly All Stars fixture.

• May 2017

• May 2017

• May 2017, 2018

• October 2017, 2018

• May 2017

• May 2017, 2018

• Feb, 2018

• January 2018

Community and GameDevelopment Manager


Welfare Manager

Education Manger

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander players

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Action Deliverable Timeline Responsibility2.2 Engage players and employees in understanding the significance of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural protocols, such as Welcome to Country and Acknowledgement of Country, to ensure there is a shared meaning

• Develop, implement and communicate a cultural protocol document for Welcome to Country and Acknowledgement of Country.

• Develop a list of key contacts for organising a Welcome to Country and upholding respectful partnerships.

• Invite a Traditional Owner to provide a Welcome to Country at the annual Charity Ball, Awards Night and NAIDOC Week.

• Include Acknowledgement of Country at the commencement of important internal and external meetings.

• Organise and publically display an Acknowledgment of Country plaque in our new offices at Parkwood.

• January 2018

• January 2018

• May2017, 2018.

• December 2017


Community CoordinatorChristine Slabb

2.3 Provide opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander players and staff to engage with their culture and communities by celebrating NAIDOC Week

• Review HR policies and procedures to ensure there are no barriers to players and staff participating in NAIDOC Week.

• Provide opportunities for all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander players and staff to participate with their cultures and communities during NAIDOC Week.

• In consultation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stakeholders, hold a NAIDOC Week event for the community, staff and players.

• Support external NAIDOC Week community events through donations of goods.

• Titans representative to attend an external NAIDOC Week community event with Preston Campbell Foundation.

• July 2017, 2018 Community and Game Development Manager


OPPORTUNITIESThe Titans are aware that the passion that exists for our club and our game gives us the ability to set an example and influence the wider community on present issues. We recognise and respect that this is a unique position and that by increasing opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples we are able to encourage reconciliation and improve outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Action Deliverable Timeline Responsibility3.1 Investigate opportunities to improve and increase Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employment outcomes at the Gold Coast Titans

• Develop and implement an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Employment and retention strategy.

• Engage with existing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff to consult on employment strategies, including professional development.

• Advertise all job vacancies in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander media.

• Collect information on current Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff to inform future employment opportunities.

• Develop and implement professional development plans for current and new Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Staff.

• Review HR and recruitment procedures and policies to ensure there are no barriers to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employees and future applicants participating in our workplace.

• Include in all job advertisements, ‘Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are encouraged to apply.’

• January 2018

• January 2018

• May 2017

• September 2017

• December 2017

• May 2017

• May 2017


Chief Operating Officer

Welfare and Education

HR Department

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Action Deliverable Timeline Responsibility3.2 Investigate opportunities to incorporate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander supplier diversity within our organisation

• Review procurement policies and procedures to identify barriers to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses to supply Titans goods and services.

• Develop and communicate to staff a list of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses that can be used to procure goods and services.

• Develop one commercial relationship with an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander owned business.

• Investigate Supply Nation membership.

• January 2018

• May 2018

• June 2018

• January 2018


Chief Operating Officer

TRACKING PROGRESS & REPORTINGAction Deliverable Timeline Responsibility4.1 Report Gold Coast Titans RAP achievements, challenges and learnings to Reconciliation Australia

• Complete and submit the RAP Impact Measurement Questionnaire to Reconciliation Australia annually.

• Explore participating in the RAP Barometer

• September 2017, 2018

• May 2018



4.2 Report Gold Coast Titans RAP achievements, challenges and learnings internally and externally

• Include RAP Progress Report in Titans Annual Report

• Publish and promote RAP progress on website and across social media

• October 2017

• May, August, November 2017, 2018



4.3 Review, refresh and update Gold Coast Titans RAP

• In partnership with Reconciliation Australia, develop a new RAP based on learnings, challenges and achievements from this RAP.

• Send draft RAP to Reconciliation Australia for formal endorsement.

• October 2018

• February 2019



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GOLD COAST TITANS ABORIGINAL & TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER PLAYERS CULTURAL CONNECTIONSAIDAN SEZER Wiradjuri

ALBERT KELLY Dunghutti

SHANNON WALKER Bundjalung

ESI TONGA Wiradjuri

TYRONE ROBERTS Bundjalung

TYRONNE ROBERTS-DAVIS Dunghutti

ASHLEY TAYLOR Yuwaalaraay/ Mandandanji

BEN JEFFERY Wiradjuri

GREG BIRD Anaiwan/ Nganyaywana

BRAD TIGHE Kamilaroi

BRENTON BOWEN Yidinjdji

CALEB BINGE Bundjalung

PRESTON CAMPBELL Gomeroi

BEAU CHAMPION Dunghutti

CHRIS GREVSMUHL Gugu Badhun

JAMAL IDRIS Worimi

KIERRAN MOSELEY Kalkadoon

MAURICE BLAIR Badtjala

NATHAN PEATS Birpai

NATHAN DAVIS Kamilaroi

SCOTT PRINCE Kalkadoon

RYAN JAMES Bundjalung

JAMES ROBERTS Bundjalung

JOSH HOFFMAN Darnley (Erub) Island (Torres Strait Islands)

Disclaimer: This map attempts to represent the language, social or nation groups of Aboriginal Australia. It shows only the general locations of larger groupings of people which may include clans, dialects or individual languages in a group. It used published resources from 1988-1994 and is not intended to be exact, nor the boundaries fixed. It is not suitable for native title or other land claims. David R Horton (creator), © Aboriginal Studies Press, AIATSIS, 1996. No reproduction without permission. To purchase a print version visit: www.aiatsis.ashop.com.au/

CONTACT DETAILSRenee Cohen Community and Game Development Manager

P: 5656 5650 E: [email protected]

Eden Cartwright Community Coordinator

P: 5656 5650 E: [email protected]

TFH High Performance Centre, 76-122 Napper Road, Parkwood QLD 4214

TITANS.COM.AU

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