2024 Nominees /

Kayla Romaniuk

Kayla’s commitment to charity work, is evident in her connection with Black Dog Institute co-delivering mental health workshops in schools and promoting youth mental health awareness. Kayla has also participated in events for Sleapy’s Foundation and OzHarvest, raising awareness and financial funds.

Kayla's commitment to youth development is in her role as Support Learning Support Officer (SLSO) at a local school, reflecting her dedication to mentoring and supporting young people.

Kayla's involvement with the Ronald McDonald House (RMHC) in Newcastle stands out as one of her most significant contributions. She regularly visits, providing comfort and joy to families facing challenging times. Her compassionate nature and leadership have made her a beloved figure within the RMHC community.

Balancing her role as an NRLW player, Kayla’s dedication makes her a true role model and an invaluable asset to both the Newcastle Knights and the broader community.

Emma Tonegato

Already an Olympic Gold Medallist and Women’s Dally M Medal recipient, Emma uses her platform to create meaningful social impact in her community. Passionate about inclusivity, Emma advocates for better opportunities for people with disabilities to engage with Rugby League.

With her background as an occupational therapist, Emma initiated and leads several club programs, including Mega Jaws, SCORE Sharks, and Mega Waves, each aimed at providing access and engagement for people with disabilities.

Her work extends beyond the Club, as she dedicates additional time to community outreach, including being an NRL Wheelchair Ambassador. Emma is also a strong advocate for female participation in Rugby League, regularly mentoring young girls and promoting the NRLW. Her efforts have significantly increased female participation in the sport locally.

Emma's community impact has reached over 600 participants this year alone, demonstrating her commitment to making Rugby League accessible for all.

Kimberley Hunt

Kimberley Hunt, a proud Wakaid woman from Badu Island, already an established player having already represented the Indigenous All-Stars and the Prime Minister’s XIII.

Kimberley has shown exceptional dedication to community service since joining the Dragons, particularly in supporting the local Indigenous community. She actively participates in the Healthy Deadly Kids program and other initiatives with the local Aboriginal Medical Service. Kimberley’s commitment to her community promotes healthy lifestyle choices among Indigenous youth, utilising rugby league and the Dragons position in community to reach and connect with community members.

Despite relocating to Wollongong, Kimberley remains committed to her Far North Queensland roots. She balances her athletic career, a full-time work, and her passion for mental health advocacy, particularly for young Indigenous people. Her leadership and enthusiasm extend beyond the field, making her a respected and influential figure within the Dragons and the broader community. Kimberley’s efforts exemplify her commitment to her cultural heritage and the mission of making a meaningful impact on those she serves.

Romy Teitzel

Known for her leadership both on and off the field. As a Beyond the Broncos Ambassador, Romy consistently and positively impacts young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. Studying secondary education, Romy seamlessly transitions between roles as a footballer and mentor, becoming a favourite among the students.

Romy exemplifies the Broncos’ values—Respect, Mateship, Compete, and Resilience. Romy is very active in her charity work, actively volunteering and supporting causes like Emmanuel City Mission and Let’s Go Support Services, encouraging teammates to join her.

Her involvement in the community is profound, from school workshops to hospital visits, ensuring those she meets and connects with feel valued. Romy’s commitment youth development is inspiring, believing it’s a privilege and responsibility. She inspires the next generation by showing that being a positive and inclusive person is what truly matters, aiming to make a lasting impact in every aspect of her life.

Tallisha Harden

Tallisha Harden is a distinguished athlete and proud Torres Strait Islander who has player rugby league at the elite level having represented both QLD in the State of Origin and the Australian Jillaroos.

Beyond her on-field achievements, Tallisha is deeply committed to community service, particularly advocating for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples. As co-captain of the Cowboys, Tallisha leads by example, mentoring younger players and engaging with fans and community members.

In addition to her NRLW commitments as a player, Tallisha works as an Indigenous Community Engagement Officer and volunteers with several organisations, promoting health, education, and empowerment for First Nations People. Her dedication to mentoring and inspiring others, especially within Indigenous communities, is profound. Tallisha’s impact, both in sports and in the community, is a testament to her resilience, cultural pride, and commitment to making a lasting difference.

Sarah Togatuki

Sarah Togatuki exemplifies a deep commitment to community service. Sarah’s meaningful engagements with local schools and organisations is pivotal in the Wests Tigers' Empower programs, contributing to the Community Resource Hub, School to Work Programs, Community and Cultural Awareness Programs, and Junior Rugby League Programs. Her efforts support students' well-being, career transitions, cultural awareness, and athletic development, drawing from her high achieving NRLW experience.

Beyond club activities, Sarah's dedication extends to local initiatives. Sarah actively mentor’s youth through FTA (From the Area) in Mount Druitt, where she provides guidance in health, arts, and sports. Her involvement in establishing the Sarah Togatuki Rugby League Academy highlights her commitment to youth development and her role as a positive role model.

Sarah also serves as an ambassador for both Saint Mary’s Rugby League Club and Family of League, advocating for rugby league in all levels of communities. Sarah’s resilience in balancing professional demands with community work, despite a leg injury, and her passion for giving back showcase her exceptional leadership and dedication to positive community impact.

Jaime Chapman

Jaime Chapman has made a remarkable impact on and off the field through her work with the Gold Coast community. Her dedication to community engagement is evident in her frequent visits to schools, junior rugby league clubs, and various events. Jaime is always actively seeking opportunities to connect with people, whether facilitating clinics, coaching, or mentoring students. Jaime’s leadership and commitment to her community reflect a maturity beyond her years.

Jaime’s work with the Gold Coast Titans Deadly Futures program highlights her commitment to inclusivity and mentorship for First Nations students. Despite the challenges of a demanding career and personal hurdles, Jaime consistently makes time for community work.

Her proactive approach and genuine care make her a role model to her peers and broader community network, showcasing firsthand how rugby league can connect and uplift communities.

Millie Elliott

Millie stands out not only for her toughness on the field but also for her exceptional contributions off it. Millie has made a significant impact through her community engagement and charity support, leading football clinics, Game Changer programs as well as supporting and providing opportunities in the lives of young players with disabilities.

In addition to her club efforts, Millie established the Trainer Group Foundation, facilitating and planning close to 50 programs across the 2024 year. Her fundraising efforts for brain cancer research and advocacy for mental fitness through Gotcha4Life further underscore her commitment and investment in the community.

Millie’s efforts to continue to use the power of rugby league to inspire those around her is a credit to her ability to bring people together and provide a positive experience for all.

Simaima Taufa

Simaima Taufa is a dedicated advocate for inclusivity, diversity, and community support. Simaima actively participates in various community initiatives, engaging in youth clinics such as Fit for Life, which promotes physical fitness in the Queanbeyan region.

Simaima consistently dedicates her time to charities like Ronald McDonald House and local hospitals, where she visits patients going through difficult seasons. Simaima also contributes her time to support the Bimberi Youth Justice Centre, leading sessions to inspire young people to be their best.

Simaima's leadership fosters team unity and strengthens community bonds, exemplifying the NRL's core values of inclusivity, positivity, unity, and discipline. Her resilience and dedication highlight her exceptional commitment both on and off the field.

Mahalia Murphy

Mahalia, a proud Kamilaroi woman, is a dedicated leader amongst her Parramatta Eels peers and across the broader community. As an Aboriginal Liaison Officer at Wesley Mission, she provides vital support to Aboriginal families, showcasing her deep commitment to her heritage.

Beyond her professional capacity, Mahalia facilitates free community fitness and rugby league sessions, promoting health and unity within the community. Her 10-week Health Challenge, tailored for the Aboriginal community in Western Sydney, empowers participants to lead healthier lives while respecting cultural practices. Mahalia’s volunteer efforts, including organising cultural and community events, foster unity and celebrate Aboriginal heritage. Her dedication to achieving positive health outcomes strengthens community bonds with a goal to reduce social isolation.

Mahalia's commitment to driving positive social outcomes, overcoming cultural barriers and securing resources, underscores her unwavering commitment to driving positive change. Mahalia is a true advocate for her community, making her a deserving candidate for this prestigious award.