As an Indigenous boy growing up in a predominately Non-indigenous community, Steve learnt from any early age how to adapt to adversity. This trait was greatly enhanced during his time with the Brisbane Broncos under the watchful eye of super coach – Wayne Bennett. Diagnosed in 1993 with Type 1 Diabetes – which could have crippled him, he defied all odds through diligence and determination and continued playing elite football. A member of four premiership winning teams in 92, 93, 97, 98, Steve ended his stella career with the Brisbane Broncos – still holding the try scoring record of 142 tries. At the apex of his career, he was signed by the Wigan Warriors in England and scored 42 tries in two seasons. Having played 11 State Of Origins, 9 tests and a World Cup for Australia – in 2010 Steve was named in the Indigenous team of the century. Steve has also been named in the Brisbane Broncos teams of 10, 20 and 25year Grand Final teams. In 2000 Steve was presented with an Australian Sports Medal for his commitment to Rugby League.
Notorious for being a fast, elegant, player with a natural gift for scoring tries, Steve – dedicated father to five beautiful children, has established himself a very successful career outside of rugby League.
In 2002 Steve launched and co-ordinated the Get Active Schools program for the Queensland State government. Here was responsible for the recruitment, training of 40 Queensland Academy of Sports Athletes from all sporting areas. Steve had to co-ordinate visits to 150 schools across Queensland with each school getting three visits per year. He trained athletes that would deliver the program benefits of healthy living through good diet and exercise.
In 2005 Steve left the State Government to work with Queensland Rail where he was involved in a safety campaign. Steve was used as a safety ambassador in media such as radio; television commercials and billboards promoting rail safety at level crossings targeted at the public across Queensland.
In 2006 Steve was asked by then Director General of Sport and Recreation to come back to work for the State Government as Indigenous Sport Ambassador for the Qld State Government. Steve had to pull together the State Government’s first Indigenous Sport Unit and deliver the Queensland Government’s Indigenous Sports Strategy.
In 2010-On going Steve was ask to join Queensland Rail National (Now Aurizon) Australia’s largest Rail Freight Company. Steve implements and delivers the companies first Indigenous strategy. This involves employment, Cross-Cultural awareness training for staff consulting with the community and creating links with and between the local Indigenous organisations and Aurizon depots.
As a Deadly Choices Ambassador, Steve is an inspiration and fantastic role model. While he may no longer play football professionally, he still plays plenty of sport, and is always keeping active and eating good food.
He is a loving father to his five children and openly talks about his life with diabetes, encouraging everyone to make healthy choices.
Favourite healthy meal: Garlic prawns cooked on the barbie.
Favourite exercise: Going for a walk.
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