Record-Breaking Queensland Special Education Championships Bring Schools Together

20 August 2026

Queensland Touch Football’s largest-ever Queensland Special Education Championships (QSEC) has celebrated a major milestone, with 25 teams coming together in Brisbane for a memorable day of participation, connection and achievement.

Held at Shaw Park, the Championships continue to provide a unique opportunity for students with disability to engage in sport in a supportive and inclusive environment, with divisions designed to cater for all abilities and experience levels.

This year’s event was marked by a record-breaking turnout, highlighting the continued growth of QSEC and the increasing demand for inclusive sporting opportunities across the state. Schools travelled from near and far to be part of the experience, demonstrating the impact the Championships are having on special education communities throughout Queensland.

One of the most remarkable stories of the day belonged to Rosella Park School from Gladstone, which became the furthest-travelling school in QSEC history. Their journey to Brisbane reflected the dedication of students, teachers and families who recognise the value of opportunities that bring young people together through sport.

For many participants, QSEC is about far more than competition. It is about building confidence, forming friendships, developing communication skills and experiencing the joy of being part of a team. Throughout the day, students took to the field with enthusiasm, determination and smiles, creating an atmosphere that embodied everything the Championships were designed to achieve.

The event showcased touch football as a vehicle for inclusion, with students of varying abilities participating in modified games and activities that encouraged engagement, teamwork and success. Every try scored, pass completed and teammate supported was celebrated by fellow players, teachers and volunteers alike.

The growth of the Championships reflects Queensland Touch Football’s commitment to ensuring that every student has access to meaningful sporting experiences. By providing a welcoming environment where participation is prioritised and barriers are reduced, QSEC continues to open doors for students who may not always have the opportunity to represent their school in a major sporting event.

The sight of 25 teams gathered from across Queensland was a powerful reminder of sport’s ability to unite communities. From first-time participants to returning schools, every team contributed to a day that celebrated laughter, determination, teamwork and inclusion.

As the final games concluded and students left with medals, memories and new friendships, one thing was clear: QSEC is continuing to grow as one of Queensland Touch Football’s most meaningful events.

With record participation, increasing regional representation and unprecedented travel efforts from schools such as Rosella Park School, the 2026 Queensland Special Education Championships demonstrated that when sport is made accessible to all, the impact reaches far beyond the field.

Event Highlights

• Record attendance of 25 teams
• Rosella Park School (Gladstone) became the furthest-travelling school ever to attend QSEC
• Students participated in an inclusive environment designed for all abilities
• Continued growth of one of Queensland Touch Football’s premier inclusion initiatives