24/05/2026
Celebrating Bill and his dedication to the sport 👏
50 years in the game for Bill Donnelly!
Bill’s touch football journey began back in 1976 at Redcliffe, after finishing his rugby league and rugby union career. The game looked a little different then - teams of 8, barefoot on Sunday mornings, with a marker and acting half able to score.
From Redcliffe, Bill and his teammates moved north, playing in Caboolture at the lakes, before settling into its current home. His involvement quickly grew beyond local competition, and by the mid-1980s he was representing the Sunshine Coast in the Over 30s. Bill was part of a groundbreaking era, proudly contributing to the first Sunshine Coast team to win a State Title.
In 1989, Bill relocated to Charters Towers for work, where his dedication to the sport made an even greater impact. Taking on the role of Association President, he helped guide the local competition through the challenges many associations face, particularly the shortage of referees. Leading by example, Bill and his fellow committee members earned their referee badges around 1991, sparking a lifelong commitment to officiating.
Since returning to the Sunshine Coast in 2001, Bill has been a familiar and respected figure both on the field and with the whistle in hand. Across 35 years of refereeing and 5 decades of playing, touch football has become a true family affair. Bill has shared the field with 2 of his daughters, both as teammates and fellow referees, and more recently had the special experience of playing alongside his grandson, who has now followed in his footsteps into refereeing.
Reflecting on his journey, Bill credits touch football as a sport that truly brings people together, a game for all ages and genders, where lifelong friendships are formed. While he admits he might be “a bit slower these days,” his love for the game remains as strong as ever, and he plans to stay involved for as long as he can.
Bill is also passionate about the next generation, encouraging more players to step into refereeing. His message is simple but powerful: be confident, use your voice, trust your knowledge, and give our referees the support they deserve.
Thank you, Bill for 50 outstanding years of dedication!
