Adrian “Happy” Thomson Semi-Retires After 12 Incredible Years with the Mendi Blackhawks
Wednesday, November 12, 2025
After more than a decade of dedicated service to the Townsville & Districts Mendi Blackhawks, Adrian “Happy” Thomson has announced his semi-retirement, marking the end of an extraordinary chapter in North Queensland rugby league.
Happy has been part of the Blackhawks family since the club’s beginning, dedicating 12 years to building the culture, pathways, and standards that define the organisation today. His influence has been felt across every level of the game, from players to coaches and the community alike.
“It’s been a great 12 years since the beginning. I’m proud to be leaving the club in good hands, you can really sense a premiership at our doorstep. I’m excited for my next adventure; I’ve always wanted to give back to my hometown team, the Winton Diamantina Devils, and I’m looking forward to seeing them grow in their local comp, and maybe even dusting off my old coaching skills again,” -Adrian “Happy” Thomson
Before his time with the Blackhawks, Happy’s rugby league journey was already rich with success. He played for the Charters Towers Miners, Brothers RLFC, and represented the Foley Shield in his early years.
As a player-coach for Brothers in 1991 and 1992, Happy led the club to back-to-back premierships, a feat that cemented his reputation as both a leader and tactician. His second coaching stint with Brothers from 2005 to 2008 delivered even more success, adding premierships in 2005, 2007, and 2008.
Happy’s coaching resume also includes steering representative teams to victory:
Foley Shield Coach: 1993–1994
North Queensland Marlins Coach: 2007–2009 (three consecutive winning seasons)
Queensland Country Coach: 2003, again with great success
His long-standing relationship with the North Queensland Toyota Cowboys began in 1996, where he coached the U17 and U19 squads in back-to-back seasons before taking charge of the Young Guns from 2001 to 2004. He later served as Assistant Coach under the late Paul Green and was a selector for numerous representative teams across local, state, and country levels.
In recognition of his invaluable contribution, Happy was honoured as a Brothers Leagues Club Lifetime Member at the Blackhawks’ 10-year season launch. He will continue to play an important role in the club’s future as a member of the board.
The Mendi Blackhawks are incredibly proud of the work Adrian “Happy” Thomson has accomplished both on and off the field. His influence, mentorship, and passion for North Queensland rugby league will continue to inspire future generations.
From everyone at the Townsville & Districts Mendi Blackhawks, Thank you, Happy!
