It’s been a big first year for Queensland Country Bank’s partnership with the Brisbane Heat and Queensland Cricket. Here are some of the season’s standout moments.
- Launch at Allan Border Field in July
This partnership kicked off in style, bringing together fans, team members, and Queensland Country Bank Members at a field steeped in cricketing history.
- WBBL ‘Gabba Smash’ and Grand Final Appearance
The Brisbane Heat WBBL team soared to great heights, making it to the grand final—a testament to their talent and determination. The ‘Gabba Smash’ not only thrilled WBBL fans but also showcased Queensland’s love for cricket’s rising stars.
- Packed Stands at The Gabba
The BBL home games lit up the Gabba, with huge numbers of fans cheering on their team in a wave of teal energy. Two games at the Gabba sold out, with broadcasters recording great viewership figures.
- “Hit Your Bills for Six!” Competition
Thousands of fans entered for the chance to win big, further building excitement around the Brisbane Heat’s games this season. One lucky person walked away with $95,000!
The Brisbane Heat’s Big Bash League (BBL) and Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) seasons have come to an end and with it, the first year of this exciting new partnership. From thrilling matches at the Gabba to inspiring young players throughout Queensland, the Heat’s impact on the cricket community goes far beyond the game. Throughout the past season, Queensland Country Bank in partnership with the Brisbane Heat has delivered benefits and excitement to cricket fans and bank Members across the state.
The partnership launch was celebrated at Allan Border Field in July, 2024. Queensland Country Bank CEO, Aaron Newman re-iterated how the partnership would benefit Queensland communities.
“We have a strong focus on supporting communities and this aligns perfectly with Queensland Cricket, which is a not-for profit association supporting grassroots cricket across the state.”
Queensland Cricket CEO, Terry Svenson, highlighted the alignment of the partnership.
“The Heat are excited to launch this winning partnership and play our part in fulfilling Queensland Country Bank’s vision to become the State’s best regional bank and help more Queenslanders live better lives through better financial wellbeing.”
Queensland Country Bank, as a Member-owned financial institution, is dedicated to improving the lives of Queenslanders, and supports the Heat’s devotion to uplifting the grassroots cricket community. It's a union rooted in pride, purpose, and a shared belief in improving the lives of Queenslanders.
Supporting Women in Sports and a Thriving Heat Community
The Brisbane Heat’s WBBL team demonstrated a clear and inspiring dedication to excellence and camaraderie as they rose all the way to the grand final. Making it to the grand final in and of itself is a huge achievement, and we have no doubt this team has a bright future ahead.
Another exciting highlight was the ‘Gabba Smash,’ played as part of the WBBL season. The strong support shown at the Gabba demonstrates how this partnership is building on an already passionate fanbase to create memorable moments for all.
The BBL Heat team experienced strong crowd attendance this season, with two sell-out games and excellent broadcasting viewership. Queensland Cricket CEO, Terry Svenson, highlighted these successes and the impact on partnerships.
“While we did not finish the season where we would have liked, we are extremely pleased with the fan support we have received that allows us to grow exposure and generate impact for our partners.
Our average crowds at the Gabba grew to 26,581 and we enjoyed two sell-out games – the first time we have achieved this feat in six seasons. We also had a record membership tally of 17,983. Both Channel Seven and Fox recorded great growth in their viewership, while our digital audience continues to be the most engaged in Australian sport.”
Enhancing Fan Experiences
One standout initiative this season was the “Hit Your Bills for Six!” competition. For every Brisbane Heat six hit during the regular season, Queensland Country Bank added $1,000 to a prize pool. One lucky Queenslander walked away from the season with a whopping $95,000!
Brisbane Heat players Jack Wood and Will Prestwidge, along with Queensland Country Bank CEO, Aaron Newman, helped make the call from the Gabba to inform the lucky winner.
Leila W from Brisbane was drawn as the competition winner, and was thrilled to receive a life-changing amount of money. Lelia stopped by the Brisbane CBD branch to celebrate, and talk to the team about some ideas she had for the prize winnings.
Queensland Country Bank Members were also given the opportunity to score complimentary tickets to Brisbane Heat home games throughout the season. The Member ballot for Heat tickets was a hit, with several Members provided the opportunity to enjoy the live game-day atmosphere.
Community Comes First
For Queensland Country Bank, this collaboration is about more than cricket—it’s about creating opportunities and building strong communities. By supporting the Brisbane Heat, they’re also supporting the countless local players, families, and fans who participate in and enjoy the sport across Queensland. Brisbane Heat’s thrilling W/BBL season has showcased a high level of professionalism and passion for the sport amongst their organisation. Queenslanders can feel connected to their cricketing heroes while being inspired to engage in sports in their own communities.
In alignment with this community focus, two not-for-profit cricket clubs were recently awarded Queensland Country Bank Good for Good community grant. Mulgrave Combined Cricket Association in North Queensland was awarded funding to provide resources in support of their women’s program, and Stanthorpe & District Cricket Association received funding for equipment upgrades.
Celebrate a Great Opening Partnership
Whether you’re cheering for the Heat at the Gabba or getting involved in active community initiatives, your support makes a big difference. We thank Brisbane Heat fans and Queensland Country Bank Members who were able to engage with everything this partnership offered over the past season. We look forward to what next season may bring!
Here’s to a bright future for Queensland Cricket, the Brisbane Heat, our Members and for fans and families alike. Ultimately, we aim to improve the lives of Queenslanders through better financial wellbeing, so let’s hit it for six together!
Did you know? Even though the Heat season is over you can still show your support through a Brisbane Heat Debit Card! Click the button below to learn more.