From injury management to encouraging the next generation to get involved in sport, Juliet Payne plays an important role in keeping the Bindal Sharks Carnival running safely.
At the 2026 Bindal Sharks Carnival, the action isn't just happening on the field. Behind the scenes, a dedicated team of sports trainers, first aiders and physiotherapists are working hard to keep players and spectators safe.
Gabriel Willie from WK Bush Tucker Bunjie caught up with Juliet Payne, a Level 2 sports trainer who has been working with the Bindal Sharks for 16 years, to learn more about her role and the importance of looking after the carnival community.
A one-stop shop for player welfare
Juliet and her team coordinate first aid and work alongside ambulance services and JCU physiotherapists to ensure injuries are assessed and players receive the appropriate care.
This year, the carnival has two ambulances available following several injuries at the previous event.
The team also provides strapping services at an affordable cost, while JCU physiotherapists assist with injury management and other services, including massage.
With the carnival bringing together players of different ages in hot conditions, Juliet says hydration and nutrition are among the biggest priorities.
She encourages players to drink plenty of water and eat breakfast before taking the field, explaining that dehydration and inadequate fuelling can contribute to fatigue and increase the risk of injury.
Looking after the whole community
The team's responsibilities extend beyond the players, with spectators also able to access assistance when needed.
Another initiative at the carnival gives younger attendees the opportunity to learn about CPR using training mannequins. While interest can take a little time to build, Juliet says children often become more comfortable approaching the team as the carnival progresses and familiar faces become easier to recognise.
For Juliet, creating a welcoming environment is an important part of making health and safety services accessible to everyone.
Getting young people active
Beyond her work at the carnival, Juliet is passionate about encouraging young people to step away from screens and get involved in sport.
Her message is simple: it doesn't have to be rugby league. Whether it's basketball, touch football or another activity, getting involved helps young people build friendships, develop confidence and enjoy being part of a team.
Building a stronger pathway for girls
One of Juliet's biggest hopes for the future is to see a dedicated girls' competition introduced alongside the boys' competition.
She points to the gap facing girls who progress through the under-13s, under-15s and under-17s before moving into open-age football.
While development opportunities exist through programs such as RISE and the Townsville Blackhawks, Juliet believes more local opportunities are needed for girls who aspire to play at the NRLW level.
She hopes a stronger pathway will allow young female players to continue developing their skills without having to travel away to find opportunities.
Come and be part of it
After 16 years with the Bindal Sharks, Juliet and her team continue to play a valuable role in supporting the carnival and its community.
Her message to anyone considering getting involved is straightforward: come and play, get active and be part of the experience.
From the volunteers working behind the scenes to the players chasing their next opportunity, the carnival is a reminder that community sport is about much more than what happens on the field.