In the vibrant landscape of far north Queensland, where the sun kisses the horizon, and the spirit of community thrives, lies the picturesque Thursday Island. Here, the stage is set for the much-anticipated 'Battle of the Islands' Touch Football Carnival , a celebration of athleticism, camaraderie, and local pride. As excitement mounts for the event scheduled for May 2nd, Chill Merchants, a prominent company specialising in HVAC-R systems, has proudly stepped forward to lend its support.

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For Chill Merchants, dedication to both business and community is deeply ingrained in the company's ethos. For managing director Mark Merchant, sponsorship of the 'Battle of the Islands' is not just a financial commitment but a heartfelt gesture to uplift and celebrate the talent within the community.

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Last August, Chill Merchants ventured into the heart of North Queensland, undertaking vital working Aurukun. Beyond business, Mark and his team forged meaningful connections with the locals, laying the groundwork for future collaborations and community initiatives.

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Among these endeavours is the sponsorship of The BlackPearls, a newly established female touch football team representing the region's diverse talent pool. Comprising players from the Cape to the TorresStraits, The Black Pearls embody the spirit of determination and unity that defines the tournament.

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In a show of support, Chill Merchants collaborated with local 100% Indigenous owned and operated Brisbane Brisbane Apparel company Yilay to design custom jerseys for The Black Pearls. These jerseys, adorned with intricate designs inspired by the region's cultural heritage, symbolise pride for the team and the community at large. Notably, the artwork behind the 'Chill Merchants' logo, crafted by Aboriginal artist Rhan Hooper, adds a poignant touch, reflecting the company's commitment to honouring Indigenous culture.

Of the Sponsorship opportunity, Chill Merchants managing director Mark Merchant says,

"It’s a real privilege to have the opportunity to support this community and I’m looking forward to experiencing my first Battle of the Islands event next week."

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As the tournament approaches, anticipation builds within the community. Families, friends, and supporters await the chance to witness the skill and sportsmanship on display, uniting under the banner of friendly competition and shared values.

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For Chill Merchants, sponsoring the 'Battle of the Islands' is more than just an opportunity to sponsor—it's a reaffirmation of their dedication to fostering community spirit and supporting local initiatives. As players take to the field and spectators cheer from the sidelines, the true winners won’t just be those who take the title but the entire community united in celebrating sport, culture, and unity thanks to this fantastic North Queensland initiative.

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For more information, you can follow the event via the Torres Strait Youth and Recreational Sporting Association Facebook page here.