Strengthening Diversity, One Game At A Time

The Gladstone Suns recently won the inaugural AFL Queensland Jarah Corporate Pride Challenge, celebrating inclusion, visibility and belonging during the 2026 Jarah Corporate Pride Round. The Challenge was designed to reward clubs for both on-field performance and meaningful Pride engagement, while encouraging welcoming environments where players, volunteers, officials and supporters of all backgrounds can love and connect with Australia’s game.  
 
Ten clubs from South-East and regional Queensland participated in the Challenge, demonstrating their commitment to LGBTQIA+ inclusion knowledge within their football communities through match day activations, education initiatives and visible displays of support across their club communities. Participating clubs included Gladstone, University of Queensland, Coorparoo, Moorooka, Robina, Redcliffe, Brothers, Wilston Grange, Labrador and Tweed Coast.  
 
The Gladstone Suns were crowned the inaugural Challenge winners, claiming the $2,000 Club Development Grant after combining strong on-field performances with outstanding Pride Round engagement. A highlight of the Suns’ campaign was the launch of their Pride guernsey, with both senior teams proudly wearing the design during the Pride Round.  

The success of the inaugural Pride Challenge highlights the growing commitment of clubs across Queensland to creating safe, welcoming and inclusive football environments and provides a strong foundation for future Pride Round celebrations.