Aaliyah Sheppard (Nunukul/Kanolu), Lily Cubby (Murrawarri), Brianna Martyn (Kullilli), Jayden Molo (Waanyi) and Brook Lacey (Ewamian) have all been selected in the 17-athlete squad named by Netball Australia on Thursday, rewarding outstanding performances across both the First Nations pathways and Netball Queensland programs throughout 2025.
Their selection continues a remarkable period for Queensland First Nations netball, driven by a clear state pathway and the Queensland First Nations program that has created meaningful touchpoints across State Teams, Queensland Firebirds Futures Academy and regional academies alongside collaboration with Sharon Finnan-White’s First Nations Academy of Excellence.
Netball Queensland Professional Netball General Manager Adrian Thompson said the result is no accident.
“The number of girls selected is a reflection of their talent and also to the success of the Queensland First Nations program,” Thompson said.
“Under the guidance of Sharon Finnan-White OAM the Queensland team has only lost one game in two years.
“Netball Queensland has increased the talent identification and support opportunities for developing First Nations athletes and the team’s success and large representation nationally is a great outcome.”
Martyn, who claimed the Marcia Ella-Duncan MVP at the 2025 First Nations Tournament, said returning to the program feels especially meaningful after overcoming a serious knee injury.
“I am excited and honoured to join the Australian Black Swans squad,” said the Sunshine Coast Thunder player.
“After being sidelined with an ACL injury and working extremely hard to get back on court, I am eager to be a part of this amazing team.”
New squad member Sheppard also spoke proudly of her call-up.
“I am incredibly grateful to be selected for the Black Swans squad,” the rising Gold Coast Titans talent said.
“It means so much to represent my mob, my family, and my culture. I can’t wait to get out there and get to work.”
The 2026 Black Swans program will continue to develop athletes beyond the court, with a strong focus on education, leadership and community impact.
Athletes will remain connected to their home-state programs while taking part in a season-long schedule of in-person and virtual activities, guided by individual performance plans that support their development and wellbeing. Education sessions throughout the year will cover performance, nutrition, culture, leadership, media and personal development, helping athletes build resilience, confidence and pride on and off the court.
Anita Keelan AM, Netball Australia’s Pathways Head Coach, will continue to oversee the performance component, working closely with new Head Coach Jen Wright and Netball Australia’s First Nations Pathways Manager Beryl Friday to ensure strong alignment with national pathways.
2026 First Nations Black Swans
Sophie Brewer - Wiradjuri (TAS)
Olivia Clarke - Kamilaroi (ACT)
Gabby Coffey - Wiradjuri (NT)
Lily Cubby - Murrawari (QLD)
Mia Evans - Kamilaroi (NSW)*
Chloe Eyre - Wamba Wamba (VIC)
Jayda Grant - Wiradjuri (NSW)
Phoebe Hickson - Dunghutti/Wiradjuri (NSW)*
Scarlet Jauncey - Yawuru (WA)
Brook Lacey - Ewamian (QLD)
Darcy-May Martin - Larrakia & Tiwi (SA)*
Brianna Martyn - Kullilli (QLD)
Tierrah Miller - Yamatji/Noongar (WA)
Jayden Molo - Waanyi (QLD)
Aaliyah Sheppard - Nunukul & Kanolu (QLD)*
Holly Stephens - Kurnai (VIC) *
Aaleya Turner - Kaurna (SA)
*Denotes new squad member
