By James Wells
TOWNSVILLE: Harvey Norman has increased its sponsorship involvement with the National Rugby League by becoming a major sponsor of the North Queensland Cowboys for the next three seasons.
Harvey Norman general manager – electrical, David Ackery, told current.com.au that the six-figure agreement was ideal for the retailer as the two businesses shared the same community values.
“The North Queensland Cowboys sponsorship was a great opportunity that met our guidelines,” he told current.com.au.
North Queensland chief executive, Peter Parr told the Townsville Bulletin that he was pleased to be associated with Australia’s largest non-food retailer.
"Harvey Norman, particularly through its seven North Queensland stores, is synonymous with the people of North
Queensland and this sponsorship will only strengthen that link with our regional fan base,” Parr said.
"But more than that, Harvey Norman are joining the Cowboys to be a part of the club, they are helping build towards our future and have invested a great deal of faith in our organisation and in the region."
Ackery, who is a former North Sydney Bears fan, admits he does have family in North Queensland and is a “closet Cowboys supporter”, but reserves most of his support for an unlikely side.
“I am actually a very vocal supporter of the Harvey Norman video referee,” Ackery told current.com.au.
Harvey Norman is also naming rights sponsor of the State of Origin competition and also sponsors the New Zealand Breakers in the National Basketball League.
The retailer is also involved with horse and greyhound racing through sponsorships with Sky Channel and also has unofficial arrangements with some Australian Football League clubs.