Playing their top roles
WHEN disaster struck, the North Queensland Cowboys launched into action.
As Townsville recovers from the region’s once in 500 year flooding event, the Cowboys will be working hard to make sure the disaster has no impact on their 2019 NRL season.
But the players have already achieved plenty following their selfless deeds during the height of the disaster.
Cowboys players performed many rescue efforts — some even after having their own homes affected — and among those doing their part were retired Cowboys winger Antonio Winterstein and forward John Asiata.
Winterstein and Asiata packed into the boat of Cowboys chaplain Aaron Mealing after receiving news on the plight of a close friend and teammate trapped in Idalia.
“We heard our good mate Gavin Cooper was trying to get out all night, his young family was stranded in their house,” Winterstein said.
“They’re good friends of ours, so we had a mate who had a boat and we didn’t hesitate to get it out.
“We kept going until late in the arvo. Once there were enough boats heading out there we called it a day.
“Everyone seemed to be all right.”
“All the boys were out there in numbers, and they’ve got a lot of experience on their tinnies from fishing.
“They knew what they were doing, and everyone seemed to be OK.”
Winterstein, who was born in New Zealand and raised in Brisbane, joined the Cowboys in 2011 and spent eight seasons at the club.
He was part of North Queensland’s 2015 premiership-winning team, and received a hero’s welcome from a grateful North Queensland community.
But the events of the last two weeks may have given Winterstein his greatest insight yet into what being a North Queenslander is all about.
“It was really unfortunate what happened, but we all saw the true spirit of Townsville,” Winterstein said.
“It was tough, but a lot of people came out to lend a hand and that’s the true culture of the Townsville community.”
Asiata said he felt compelled to help his fellow residents in need.
“It was heartbreaking see,” he said.
“I’m not a good swimmer but I know the basics like move your arms and legs but it is just in my nature to help whenever someone is in trouble.” to