The Indigenous Australian women’s rugby sevens team is making history in Samoa as it competes at this year’s Teuila International 7s. 

The tour, backed by the Australian Government through PacificAus Sports and Rugby Australia, builds on last year’s visit by a First Nations men’s side and an Australian national women’s team.  

Hosted annually by Lakapi Samoa, the Teuila International 7s has become a showcase for Pacific rugby talent. For the Lloyd McDermott Rugby Development Team—or ‘Lloydies’—this marks the women’s first international tour. The Lloydies have spent more than two decades creating pathways for Indigenous athletes in honour of Lloyd McDermott, the second First Nations Wallaby.  

“Having our First Nations women’s team tour Samoa for the first time is incredibly special,” said Matthew Sonter, Rugby Australia’s First Nations Rugby Manager. “These players are representing their families, communities and culture with pride while also showing the next generation what’s possible through rugby.”  

Twenty-three-year-old captain Renae Nona, a former Queensland Reds Super W player, said pulling on the Lloydies jersey overseas was a dream come true. “I’ve always looked up to the women who paved the way in rugby, and now to wear the Lloydies jersey in Samoa feels amazing,” Nona said. “It’s about more than just playing, it’s about representing who we are, our stories and where we come from.”  

Off the field, the tour features a community engagement programme that allows players to build friendships, learn from local traditions and showcase First Nations culture.  

“Sport is one of the strongest bridges we have between our two countries,” said Australian High Commissioner to Samoa Will Robinson. “Through PacificAus Sports, Australia is delighted to support this historic First Nations women’s tour, which will deepen our friendship with Samoa, share culture and open up new opportunities for young athletes.”  

Last year’s First Nations men’s tour saw Kye Oates and Jarrah McLeod earn Super Rugby contracts with the ACT Brumbies while Gage Phillips joined the Australian Men’s Sevens programme. The women are now expected to follow in their footsteps, using the tour to showcase their talent, embrace cultural exchange and strengthen ties with Samoa.