NRL ace sets sights on Townsville Billy giving back to kids
QUEENSLAND State of Origin legend Billy Slater has his sights set on Townsville for his children’s sports business Billy’s Buddies.
The former Innisfail junior, who rose to become one of the best and most entertaining players the game of rugby league has ever seen, wants North Queensland youngsters to follow in his footsteps – starting with a healthy and active lifestyle.
His Billy’s Buddies franchises are run in major centres along the east coast of Australia, and a centre already operates in Cairns. The program, which Slater started in 2016, is offered as an extra-curricular activity for children aged two to six years old and focuses on theme-based sessions that teach the fundamentals of ball sports and also help develop social skills.
“It just makes sense to come to Townsville,” Billy’s Buddies general manager Alexandra Herrmann said.
“We want it to be our next step, and obviously kids in Townsville love their rugby league and their sport.
“We run the programs at local clubs and at local childcare centres and it’s about helping children develop their confidence, selfesteem, hand-eye ordination and fitness.
“It’s not only about rugby league but learning the fundamentals of ball sports.”
The Billy’s Buddies program is looking for a Townsville franchisee, which Ms Herrmann said was a huge opportunity for someone who enjoys sport and education.
“They need to love sport, and they also need to have a business acumen,” Ms Herrmann said.
“We’re just looking the right person.”
For anyone interested in applying for the Townsville Billy Buddies franchise visit billysbuddies.com.au. cofor