Sport
2 November, 2025
High school showdown
THE first-ever Birra Djaa School of Origin Carnival brought fierce rivalry, community pride, and plenty of excitement to Morayfield State High School on Tuesday, October 21, 2025.
The new interschool event — a friendly showdown between Morayfield State High School and Caboolture State High School — was born from a conversation between Morayfield MP Mark Ryan, Morayfield SHS Principal Peter Keen, and Caboolture SHS Principal Doug Watson. What began as an idea to strengthen ties between local schools quickly turned into a full-scale celebration of teamwork, respect, and school spirit.
Both schools fielded teams across Year 7 Rugby League Academy and Year 8–10 boys’ and girls’ divisions, with perfect weather setting the stage for an action-packed day. The Caboolture Snakes struck early, with their Year 7 Boys and Girls Rugby League Academy teams scoring back-to-back wins to kick off the carnival. Standout players Bailey Henderson and Ivyleigh Gauci were named Players of the Match for their impressive performances.
However, as the day went on, the Morayfield Raptors fought back, with their Year 9/10 Girls claiming a convincing victory before the Year 10 Boys sealed the deal with a dominant display, securing the 2025 Birra Djaa School of Origin Trophy.
Morayfield SHS Principal, Mr Keen, said the event served to showcase “sportsmanship, teamwork and the power of community.” “No matter what happens out there, both teams should walk away proud of what they’ve achieved,” he said.
Caboolture SHS said in a statement, “While we didn’t bring the trophy home this year, we’re proud of every player who represented our school with pride and passion. We’ll be back next year — bigger, better, and hungrier than ever.”
Mark Ryan MP congratulated both schools for their efforts, along with the Caboolture & Districts Woodcrafters for the “superb trophy.” “Congratulations to all the players, staff, families and supporters for a great event,” he said. “I’m incredibly proud to be a foundation supporter of the School of Origin and can’t wait for next year’s carnival.”
Both schools were praised for their sportsmanship and community spirit, with staff and supporters cheering loudly from the sidelines.
