Following a successful pilot in 2024, the First Nations Tournament is now a permanent fixture on the national netball calendar, with under-23 teams from across the country set to compete at Jubilee Park Stadium in Frankston, Victoria from 20-24 August.
Returning as Head Coach, former Australian Diamond and Queensland Firebird No.17 Sharon Finnan-White OAM said last year’s triumph was about far more than a trophy.
“Last year’s tournament was a powerful and emotional moment for all of us, to lift the inaugural trophy meant more than just a win,” Finnan-White said.
“It was about pride, culture, and representation.
“We learned so much about ourselves, each other, and the strength of our identity through sport.”
Queensland has named a training group who will head into a camp on July 19-20 before the final selection to represent the state at this year’s event is named.
The group includes several members of last year's title-winning team including Black Swans representatives Lily Cubby, Brook Lacey, Kiesha Muckan and Jayden Molo but unfortunately breakout star Maryke Babia has had to withdraw due to injury.
Finnan-White said the team will approach this year’s event focused on elevating their game while inspiring the next generation.
“We’re coming into this year’s tournament with hunger, humility, and heart,” Finnan-White said.
“Our goal isn’t just to defend the title, it’s to elevate our game, honour our communities and ancestors and inspire the next generation of First Nations players, coaches and umpires.”
She added that the tournament plays a critical role in creating culturally safe environments for First Nations women in netball.
“This tournament is a vital part of creating culturally safe pathways for our First Nations women to reach the elite level of our game. It’s about building systems where they feel seen, supported, and proud of who they are so they can thrive not just as athletes, but as strong cultural leaders in our sport.”
2025 Queensland First Nations training squad
Shiianne Barlow (Woodjinburra)
Savanna Beale (Gudjal/ Garawa)
Lily Cubby (Murrawarri)
Makayla Cubby (Barkindji)
Charlie Duke (Kamilaroi)
Schemyah Ford (Thitharr Warra / Guugu Taipan)
Brook Lacey (Ewamian)
Georgia Lindsay (Gudjal)
Danielle Major (Waluwarra / Waanyi)
Brianna Martyn (Kulilli)
Demi Martyn (Kulilli)
Ebony Martyn (Kulilli)
Jayden Molo (Waanyi)
Kiesha Muckan (Nunukul / Kabi Kabi / Boigu Island)
Tahira Muckan (Nunukul / Kabi Kabi / Boigu Island)
Alison Peacock (Bidjara and Dhunghatti)
Aaliyah Sheppard (Nunukul / Kanolu)
Tarna Stewart (Bindal, Gunggandji, Kalkadoon, Thursday, Moa and Darnley Island)
Lily Tschuna (Wirangu / Kokatha / Dhanghatti)
Luen Wilkie (Wakka Wakka and Ghungalu)
Staff:
Head Coach: Sharon Finnan-White OAM (Dunghutti / Gumbaynggirr/ Biripi)
Assistant Coach: Sam Dippel (Wulli Wulli / Wakka Wakka)
Cultural Liaison: Kylie McCartney (Barkindji / Murrawarri)
