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An 11-year-old rugby league fan from Boondall has been honoured in Redcliffe after recovering from a serious head injury, with support from the Dolphins and Ausbuild.
Young Fan Recognised in Redcliffe
The Dolphins and Ausbuild came together to support 11-year-old Mateo, a young fan who can no longer play rugby league after a life-changing head injury. His resilience was highlighted at recent NRL events, supported through the Raise it for Redcliffe Hospital initiative.
Accident and Medical Discovery
Earlier this year, Mateo fell from his bike after briefly removing his helmet. The accident caused a fractured skull and a subdural haematoma. During his emergency care at Redcliffe Hospital, a CT scan revealed a Chiari malformation, a condition where brain tissue extends into the spinal canal. Swift medical intervention ensured his recovery, though his injury meant he could no longer play the sport he loved.
Dolphins and Ausbuild Involvement
To acknowledge his bravery, Ausbuild and the Dolphins invited Mateo to the Captain’s Run before the club’s clash with the Broncos on 15 August 2025. He met several players, including his favourite, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, and received a signed jersey. His younger brother, also a keen supporter, was gifted a jersey. The previous week, Mateo formed part of the Guard of Honour for the team’s match against the Sydney Roosters at Suncorp Stadium. Complimentary tickets were also provided for his family.
Family Challenges and Community Support
The recognition came during a difficult year for Mateo’s family. Two of his siblings required medical treatment, one for meningioma and another for eye surgery. His grandmother works as an Emergency Department nurse across Redcliffe Hospital and Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital. Despite these challenges, the Dolphins and Ausbuild experiences provided a moment of encouragement for the family.
Raise it for Redcliffe Hospital
Raise it for Redcliffe Hospital is an initiative of the RBWH Foundation, designed to celebrate patients, staff, and the community while raising funds for research, medical equipment, and hospital services. Ausbuild supported the program during the Dolphins’ match against the Roosters, where 150 community guests attended.
Role of Redcliffe Hospital
Established in 1965, Redcliffe Hospital has served the community for more than five decades and is part of the Metro North Hospital and Health Service. The 250-bed facility handles more than 63,000 emergency presentations annually and provides services including surgery, maternity, rehabilitation, and paediatric care. The Raise it for Redcliffe initiative helps fund new technology, equipment, and medical research, ensuring continued patient support across the region.
Looking Ahead
Mateo’s recognition illustrates how community partnerships with the Dolphins and Ausbuild not only celebrate resilience but also highlight the continuing role of Redcliffe Hospital in supporting families across South East Queensland.
Published 21-Aug-2025
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