Rugby league is about more than what happens on the field. It’s about bringing people together, building connections and creating opportunities that can change lives.
At the 2026 Queensland Murri Carnival, IN SPORT caught up with Tim from Build Smart Communities to explore how the organisation is using grassroots sport to open doors and support individuals and communities.
Creating Opportunities That Matter
Based in Sydney, Build Smart Solutions is a construction regulation advisory firm with a community-focused initiative, Build Smart Communities.
Through partnerships with grassroots sporting organisations, community groups and individuals, the initiative provides opportunities that extend well beyond financial sponsorship.
From mentorship and work experience to employment support, resume assistance and promoting emerging talent, Build Smart Communities is focused on helping people take their next step.
For Tim, the motivation is personal.
Growing up in regional New South Wales, he experienced firsthand how one opportunity can change someone’s future. At just 18, a local council cadetship became the stepping stone that helped shape his career.
Now, he’s passionate about creating similar opportunities for others.
Supporting Talent On and Off the Field
At this year’s Queensland Murri Carnival, Build Smart Communities brought its initiative directly to the community, creating opportunities for people to connect, share their stories and showcase their talents.
One standout was a young artist supported through the initiative, whose handmade earrings proved so popular they sold out within minutes.
It’s a simple example of what can happen when talented individuals are given a platform to be seen and supported.
And the opportunities aren’t limited by age.
Whether it’s a young person looking for their first job, an emerging artist seeking exposure or an experienced boxing trainer giving back to the next generation, Build Smart Communities believes everyone has something valuable to contribute.
The Power of Grassroots Sport
For Tim, the Queensland Murri Carnival represents everything that makes community sport so powerful.
Beyond the competition, the carnival brings families, communities and generations together, strengthening cultural connections and creating opportunities for meaningful conversations.
It’s this sense of community that inspired Build Smart Communities to become involved in the event for the first time.
The organisation also hopes to take inspiration from the carnival back to Sydney, where it already supports grassroots rugby league through its partnership with the Alexandria Rovers.
Opening Doors, One Conversation at a Time
While the initiative continues to grow, Tim’s message to anyone looking for an opportunity is simple: don’t be afraid to ask.
Whether you’re seeking mentorship, employment support, sponsorship or simply someone to listen to your story, the first step is starting a conversation.
For Build Smart Communities, success isn’t measured by how many people they can directly support, but by how many doors they can help open.
And through partnerships with events like the Queensland Murri Carnival, those opportunities have the potential to reach even further.
🎙️ Watch the full interview on the IN SPORT App to discover how Build Smart Communities is helping people turn opportunities into possibilities.