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Historic photos of the 103 Squadron Australian Air Force Cadets. Photos supplied: 103 Squadron Australian Air Force Cadets Archives
For 75 years, the 103 Squadron of the Australian Air Force Cadets has been helping shape generations of young people across the Hinchinbrook.
From humble beginnings the squadron has grown into an enduring local institution, providing countless cadets with opportunities to develop confidence, resilience and lifelong skills.
As the squadron prepares to celebrate its milestone anniversary, members are reflecting on a proud history while inviting past and present cadets, volunteers and supporters to help commemorate seven and a half decades of service to the community.
Image source: NRL Imagery
Local star Romy Teitzel recently celebrated a milestone 50th NRLW game with the Brisbane Broncos in Wagga Wagga, in which the team won 34-4 against the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs.
Born in Townsville but raised in Tully, Romy credits her success on the field to her deep rural roots and her junior club The Tully Tigers, who run entirely on volunteers.
“I feel super proud, and a little bit lost to words” Romy said.
“It’s unbelievable I’ve been able to reach 50 games.”
At 27, Romy has become not only a strong female leader in sport but an inspiration to all young children from rural towns, standing as a shining example of how to use your background to your advantage.
Brisbane Broncos star Romy Teitzel, 27, has just celebrated her 50th NRLW game in a fast-paced thrilling clash with the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs on Sunday 2nd August.
Born in Townsville but raised in Tully, Romy credits her success to the support of her local community; particularly her junior club; the Tully Tigers.
“The biggest thing is: growing up in a small community you don’t realise how many people play a part in [your journey], from the volunteers to coaches to even your best mates. They help you become this great athletes”
Growing up Romy threw herself into every sporting club she could, but even though rugby seemed to be in her DNA, she never imagined playing professionally. Her whole family were big supporters of the local Rugby league club including her father Craig Teitzel who played for the North Queensland Cowboys.
Coming from a smaller town means sporting success takes another layer of commitment; being away from family, travelling further distances for competitions or carnivals and investing enough time into practice to make it all worthwhile.
“It feels a bit of a hassle, or a sacrifice, to travel but it builds resilience and builds better athletes. You appreciate things a bit better.”
After her training with the Tully Tigers, Romy relocated to Townsville for university and joined the Western Lions.
“It wasn’t a professional sport for females, but I was happy playing sport socially. I was down in uni at James cook and I just I did it for fun. Ever since that comp and team, I haven’t looked back.” Romy said.
“I didn’t think this would happen. It’s not often you see athletes or big names come out of small communities. It seemed out of reach; it wasn’t on my radar.”
Romy went on to sign with the Brisbane Broncos in 2020, but like many others, her dreams were put on pause when COVID hit. She went on to spend two seasons with the Newcastle Knights before returning home to the Brisbane Broncos in 2023 at age 24.
Round 5 of the NRLW premiership was the perfect field for marking Romy Teitzel’s 50th game.
“It’s unbelievable I’ve been able to reach 50 games. I played rugby league for fun. I’m very lucky that that’s how I feel taking the field each week
“I’m very proud of the young girl from Tully that has played 50 games in the NRLW. Looking back there’s going to be a lot of young girls that hopefully can get some inspiration from this”
Ahead of her milestone game Romy made sure to send a special message of support to her Junior team The Tully Tigers.
“The under 13 Tully tigers made the grand finale - which is special. If I can play a little part in [inspiring] what they love doing then I've done my part.”
With 50 games now under her belt Romy is a prime example of allowing yourself to dream big- as wherever you come from, you can achieve anything.
Romy will continue to represent the Brisbane Broncos into the 2027 calendar and looks forward to playing more games at this elite level.
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