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Cowboys honour the Australian Army with 2026 Defence Jersey

The North Queensland Toyota Cowboys are proud to unveil the club’s 2026 Defence Jersey, recognising the Australian Army’s significant contribution throughout the North Queensland community.

The 2026 Defence Jersey is the third iteration of a collaboration between the Cowboys and the Australian Army’s 3rd Brigade, with this year’s edition paying tribute to the combined arms force, and each of the Australian Army Brigades based in the region.

Defined by a striking green and khaki colour tone, the Jersey is built on the central theme of ‘the whole is greater than the sum of its parts,’ highlighted on the right sleeve cuff of the Jersey, honouring shared principles and enduring connection between the Australian Defence Force, the North Queensland community and sport.

In a further nod, the Jersey profiles the unmatched lethality of the Australian Army’s North Queensland based Brigades. The front of the Jersey features Australian soldiers alongside a M1A2 Abrams main battle tank and M1150 Assault Breacher Vehicle, whilst the back of the Jersey sees the CH-47 Chinook take centre stage.

AH64-E Apache attack helicopters feature across the chest of the jersey, bringing together elements, from the 3rd and 16th Brigade, that each work together to create a lethal combined arms force, generating supremacy both on land and in the air.

Townsville’s iconic Mt Stuart sits proudly atop of the design, further highlighting the deep connection between the Australian Defence Force and the North Queensland region.

A standout feature is the distinctive silhouette of the Australian Army’s Rising Sun badge, sitting proudly on the back of the collar, long associated with the spirit of the ANZAC and the enduring tradition of the Australian soldier. Player issue Jerseys also feature the Rising Sun within the grip pattern.

A symbol of commitment, heritage and service, the Cowboys are honoured to become only the second civilian sporting team granted permission to display the Rising Sun badge on a Jersey.

The Jersey is completed with the emblems of each of the Australian Army’s North Queensland based Brigades across the upper back:

  • 3rd Brigade, the Australian Army Armoured Combat Brigade (entirely Townsville based)
  • 16th Brigade, the Australian Army’s Aviation Brigade (based across Queensland and NSW)
  • 17th Brigade, the Australian Army’s Australia Sustainment Brigade (based across Australia)
  • 4th Brigade, the Australian Army’s Health Brigade (based across Australia)
  • 11th Brigade, an Australian Army Reserve Brigade (based in Queensland)

The Cowboys would also like to recognise major partners, Toyota, Bravus Mining & Resources, YETI and TAFE Queensland for working closely with the Cowboys and apparel partner, Dynasty to create a striking design to give the Defence community the recognition it deserves.

The Defence Jersey will be worn by the Cowboys for NRL ANZAC Round against the Cronulla Sharks on 24 April at Queensland Country Bank Stadium, proudly supported by Townsville City Council.

The Cowboys annual ANZAC Round match has received continual support from Townsville City Council, and once again the club and Council will work together to create a worthy event paying tribute to the commitment and sacrifice of former and serving Defence personnel and their families.

The Defence Jersey and an exclusive Defence Polo is now available in men’s, women’s and kids sizes at the Cowboys Team Shop, in-person at 335 Flinders Street, Townsville City or online at www.cowboysteamshop.com.au.

Acknowledgement of Country

North Queensland Cowboys respect and honour the Traditional Custodians of the land and pay our respects to their Elders past, present and future. We acknowledge the stories, traditions and living cultures of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples on the lands we meet, gather and play on.