Ray White Queensland partners with Brisbane Lions during challenging period, demonstrating commitment to long-term success.
The Announcement:
In a remarkable show of faith, Ray White Queensland backed the Brisbane Lions as their coaches and real estate partner even after their turbulent start to season 2024.
The decision was not one lightly taken, but for Ray White Queensland, it was about more than just wins and losses; it was about aligning with a brand that shared their values of resilience, teamwork, and commitment.
This partnership was formed mid-season at a time when the Lions were 13th on the ladder after five consecutive losses.
Jason Andrew, CEO of Ray White Queensland, spoke about the reasons behind the bold move.
“We saw something in the Lions that resonated with our own journey,” Mr Andrew said.
“It wasn’t just about their on-field performance but their spirit, their dedication, and the promise of what was to come.”
“I wasn’t always an avid AFL fan, in fact, my true passion was the NRL, much like many Queenslanders.
We explored many partnership opportunities this year; we spoke to all the big clubs, but we felt an alignment to the Brisbane Lions.”
Ray White Queensland stepped in with a vision that extended beyond the short-term.
Their belief in the Lions’ potential, even at rock bottom, laid the groundwork for a partnership that would grow stronger as the team did.
Jason Andrew said: “It’s easy to back a winning team, but we wanted to show our faith when it mattered most. We knew the Lions would rise again, and we wanted to be part of that journey.”
Fast forward to the present, and the Brisbane Lions have made a remarkable resurgence, proving that success comes to those who persist through adversity.
The partnership with Ray White Queensland has now become a symbol of resilience and shared success, showing that enduring support can help turn the tide.
Ray White Queensland during their toughest times remains a pivotal chapter in both their stories. It’s a lesson in loyalty, perseverance, and the belief that, with the right support, any team or business can rise to new heights.
Many key Ray White corporate team members and network members are some of the Brisbane Lions’ strongest supporters.
Jodie Usher, the national payroll manager who has been with the group for more than 20 years, said she loved the Brisbane Lions for their teamwork.
Jodie’s enthusiasm for the Brisbane Lions shines through with her deep connection to the team and her favourite players. She not only admires their performance on the field but also their camaraderie off the field.
“I have been a believer for more than 20 years. I love the old players and the new. I respect their work ethic, I admire their fitness and mental toughness. They are a great team both on and off the fields. They respect each other and they play as a team.”
Jodie and her beautiful Staffy Marnie love these three players:
Joe Daniher – he just doesn’t stress about any game. He always wants to be the last out, he is so cool as he knows it’s just a game and he keeps himself and the others calm.
Cam Rayner – he is just such a top bloke. He recently signed a Premiership cap for me! And a #16 shirt and thanked me for my support! Rayner is such a versatile midfield/forward who has a knack of being able to break games open of his own boot.
Kai Lohmann – he’s such an exciting young forward. He’s “just like a terrier, he never gives”.
Ray White Bulimba principal Brandon Wortley said he has been a fan “through thick and thin, and members for more than 30 years”.
“It feels like we are part of the family. We feel like we share the wins and the losses but couldn’t be more thrilled with their resilience and character. This feels like the start of something very special over the next few years,” he said.
“Without question, the 2024 Grand Final is my favourite memory but there have been so many over the years. Getting a photo with Chris Fagan and the cup was pretty epic too!”
Tomomi Smith of the White Family Office in Brisbane said she had been supporting the team for more than 25 years.
“For me, I like the respect and kindness each player shows in their determination to achieve their goal together. Winning the Premiership this year has been a high for sure, plus Coach Chris Fagan being named best Coach of 2024.
“The lows! We lost by 1 point against Carlton in Round 1 and also lost Keidean Coleman. When we are not playing well, there were so many bad media reviews during the first part of the home and away season.”
Tomomi said Oscar McInerney’s incredible sportsmanship in the preliminary final game against Geelong, when he dislocated his shoulder but kept playing until it dislocated a second time nearly broke her.
“He hurt his shoulder despite knowing that he wouldn’t be able to play in GF, and still celebrated and showed his happiness for Darcy Fort at the Grand Final, rather than looking sad as he could not play!”
Ray White Queenland’s Dalaney Redshaw and Ray White Concierge CEO Kelly Tatlow are avid fans!
Ray White Queensland’s Sally Patch said she had never followed any sporting code until now.
“Truth be told I always thought AFL games were way too long. Our corporate sponsorship put the game and team on my radar and I was hooked almost immediately – it did help that my first game was a win.”
“It’s so impressive how a team can come back from only 4 wins in the first 12 rounds to season Premiers. I became a bonafide proud Lions scarf-wearing fan, yelling and cheering in my lounge room (with the sound muted because the whistles scare the dog!) and googling 2025 season membership!”
Let’s go Brisbane Lions, Ray White believes in you all!
