Radiant Life College is proud to announce the launch of the Ganyarra Rugby League Academy, a new, holistic development program, marking an exciting new chapter for the school and its commitment to student well-being and excellence.
A major strength of the Ganyarra Rugby League Academy is the exceptional experience and leadership of the academy staff, including:
Together, the academy staff bring more than 40 years of experience playing and working at the highest levels of rugby league. Their achievements include representing at international and state level, competing in elite professional competitions and being part of premiership winning teams.
This level of experience provides students with direct access to mentors who understand the dedication, discipline, resilience and mindset required to succeed both on and off the field.
Beyond rugby league development, the staff are passionate about supporting young people through leadership, cultural connection, well-being and personal growth.
Their guidance helps shape a strong academy culture built on Respect, Courage, Resilience, Responsibility and Culture, while inspiring students to strive for excellence in all areas of life.
The academy has been developed alongside recent capital upgrades at the College, supported by State Government funding, which has enabled the creation of high-quality sporting facilities including a new gym and track and field infrastructure. These developments align with a broader vision to enhance opportunities for students in the lead-up to the 2032 Olympic Games and beyond.
The Ganyarra Rugby League Academy was inspired by the success of the International Legends of League game hosted earlier this year, which drew thousands of attendees and featured a number of high-profile players and local talent.
Radiant Life College Principal Nathanael Edwards said the overwhelming community support sparked a vision to create a lasting legacy for young people in the region.
“We saw an opportunity to build something meaningful and long-term out of that event,” Mr Edwards said.
“The Ganyarra Rugby League Academy is about creating something authentic: a program with real substance that gives back to our community and supports the development of young people both on and off the field.”
“Ganyarra,” meaning saltwater crocodile, reflects strength, resilience and connection, values that sit at the heart of the program.
While rugby league skills will form a key component of the academy, the program is intentionally designed to focus on the whole child, incorporating mental wellbeing, emotional intelligence, cultural identity and community connection.
Former NRL player and program mentor Antonio Winterstein said the academy’s point of difference lies in its holistic approach.
“This program goes beyond football,” Mr Winterstein said.
“It’s about developing young people who are equipped to handle life’s challenges, building emotional resilience, discipline and confidence, both on and off the field.”
“We want to help students succeed in everyday life, not just in sport.”
The program will also include a strong cultural component, led by community leaders, with a focus on identity, connection and belonging, particularly important for First Nations students, while remaining open and inclusive to all participants.
Radiant Life College has partnered with the Northern Pride to provide students with exposure to elite pathways, including excursions and opportunities to experience high-performance environments.
The academy will cater to students aged 11-15 years, with a focus on early engagement and supporting students before disengagement becomes a challenge.
Weekly sessions will be supported by experienced coaches, including former NRL and representative players, alongside additional training touchpoints throughout the week.
Former NRL player Michael Bani will be providing cultural support and mentorship.
“Coming from a very remote community, an isolated island of 280 people, and then moving to Sydney and cracking first grade… the majority of ex-NRL players are left with the question of, what now?” Mr Bani said.
“I think it always comes back to that connection to identity, self-esteem, and self-belief – to say, ‘I can do whatever it takes to be successful’.”
“With these young players, it’s about giving them the tools to cope with challenges they will face, not just on the field but off the field.”
Mr Bani, who followed his NRL career with a two-year stint onstage as the Sorting Hat in the Australian run of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, is interested in developing drama and acting skills for the program’s young participants, which will benefit their self-confidence, creative thinking, and potentially media training as they pursue careers – in sport or otherwise.
Looking ahead, the program also aims to provide life-changing opportunities beyond the classroom, including potential cultural exchange trips.
Radiant Life College emphasised that 2026 will be a foundational year for the academy, focused on establishing strong systems, relationships and culture.
“This is about planting seeds for the future,” Mr Edwards said.
“We’re committed to building a program that creates long-term impact, not just for our students, but for families and the wider community.”
“Between Cairns and Townsville, there isn’t as much opportunity for development, and with the current cost of living, families may struggle to send their children away for programs, so we wanted to create an academy that can fill that niche area and give kids the same opportunities that their peers will get at larger schools in bigger cities.”
“We want to develop resilient, confident young people who are connected to their identity and equipped for whatever path they choose.”