The Cowboys have parted ways with longtime coach Paul Green, following a series of disappointing results.
Green informed the players on Monday morning before an official announcement was made by the club.
"Paul Green has announced he will cease his position effective immediately," a Cowboys statement read. "Green said that after consultation with club management, it became clear that it was best for all parties to call time on his tenure as head coach."
North Queensland has won just three games in 2020 and sits 12th on the ladder. On Sunday they lost 22-10 to the red-hot Panthers.
"The board felt that the club was at a juncture where they needed to move in a different direction, and I can only respect their views," Green said. "Whilst this is obviously disappointing news, I am grateful to the board for allowing me to lead this club whilst creating some lifelong memories.
"I will use this next period to freshen up, spend some time with my family and assess options before moving on to my next coaching role."
Cowboys assistant coach Josh Hannay will take the main job for the remainder of the 2020 season.