The NSW Parliamentary Friends of Rugby Union, in partnership with NSW Rugby Union and Rugby Australia hosted a special Welcome Home Reception for NSW Waratahs and Australian Wallaroos squad members at NSW Parliament House.
The event, supported by NSW Rugby Union and Rugby Australia, celebrated the Wallaroos’ achievements following their recent Rugby World Cup campaign and acknowledged their growing impact on women’s sport across the country.
The NSW Parliamentary Friends of Rugby Union co-chair, Dr Marjorie O’Neill MP, was the event MC with the breakfast bringing together Members of Parliament, rugby leaders, and guests from across the sporting community.
“The Wallaroos continue to inspire not only on the field but across communities throughout Australia,” Dr O’Neill said. “Their commitment, passion, and success embody the very best of rugby’s values and pave the way for future generations of players.”
Rugby Australia’s General Manager of Women’s Rugby, Jilly Collins, praised the team’s effort and the legacy they are building.
“This World Cup campaign was about more than results — it was about representing Australia with pride, resilience, and unity,” Ms Collins said. “The Wallaroos have inspired a new generation of girls to dream big, and as we look ahead to hosting the Women’s Rugby World Cup in 2029, the future has never looked brighter for women’s rugby in Australia.”
Wallaroos players Georgina Fredrichs and Desiree Miller joined a player panel moderated by Dr O’Neill, sharing personal reflections from their World Cup journey, from the challenges of international competition to the pride of wearing the green and gold.
With Rugby World Cups in 2027 and 2029 on the horizon, NSW is set to play a central role in the sport’s next chapter.
NSW Rugby Union CEO Peter Murphy said the event underscored the state’s leadership in rugby’s growth.
“We’re entering a defining era for rugby in New South Wales,” he said. “Hosting two World Cups within four years gives us a powerful platform to strengthen pathways, elevate women’s rugby, and unite communities through the game.”
The reception concluded with networking and breakfast, as guests celebrated the Wallaroos’ achievements and looked ahead to rugby’s exciting future in Australia.
