The Queensland Rugby Union will work closer than ever before with Rivernet Communications, as IT and Technology Partner, over the next three years.
The upbeat partnership extension announced today reflects the strong relationship forged since joining forces in 2022 and how it will be expanded.
It will allow the QRU to access the skills and expertise of a fractional Chief Information Officer to assist in key technology, data and cybersecurity areas in addition to Rugby Australia resourcing.
Rivernet Director Gideon Street said the partnership goes beyond the "brand awareness and growth" generated from a partnership with a leading sports club.
"We work out of the BMS National Rugby Training Centre at Ballymore. It's such a friendly, open, collaborative environment away from the steel towers of the city," Street said.
"There are definitely parallels with setting up IT and a footy team. You've got to trust and know everyone is doing their job with an all-in-it-together attitude."
The Rivernet logo adorned the sleeve of the Reds men's playing jersey for the matches against Wales, Tonga and the Saitama Panasonic Wild Knights last year. Under the new deal, the logo will be on the jersey for the Reds' tour matches in Japan and Italy late next year.
The Brisbane-founded and based company proudly delivers tailored technology solutions and taps into the vast experience of Directors Street, Scott Kirk and Michael Berndt plus their growing team.
Street says the close ties to the Reds offer positives to both parties.
"A lifetime working in technology with hundreds of companies is the right background to help the QRU deliver on business goals. We can help develop strategies and manage the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) they need," Street said.
"Personally, it's good to feel we will add value."
Street and wife Leda joined Kirk and wife Lisa in Japan last year for the Reds' match against the Wild Knights in Kumagaya.
"It was a once-in-a-lifetime peek behind the curtain with the Reds with the welcome and invitation to the dressing room we received," Street said.
"It was very interesting and also a reflection of the way we are looked after as a partner.
"I definitely see the benefit of the partnership, one we want to keep going as long as we can."
Rivernet’s logo was also proudly displayed on the Reds women’s playing jersey when they played in Tonga last year. It was a meaningful link to Rivernet’s significant commitment to the Women In Digital network which is driven by Account Manager Brooke Powell.
"There are growing numbers of women playing rugby and it's important to keep providing those opportunities," Street said.
"I've always loved rugby. We're a socially responsible company and we give back where we can."
QRU Chief Executive David Hanham welcomed the extension with a trusted partner.
"Rivernet has already been a key partner in the Ballymore redevelopment by providing hardware and a data plan," Hanham said.
"There is a uniqueness to our partnership in the way we work so closely and will in the future to keep developing our data and technology strategy with their quality support.
"We have built an excellent relationship over the past three years and it's an exciting time ahead in rugby for us and our partners."
About Rivernet Communications:
Founded in 2008, Rivernet Communications has a proud reputation for delivering tailored technology solutions to drive business outcomes for large enterprises and government entities.
Data and voice communication specialists in the IT networking industry, Rivernet harness experience across three decades to design, implement and support solutions.
The Brisbane-founded company has grown to have offices in Canberra, Melbourne and Adelaide with 23 extra staff employed over the past three years.
