Celebrating Our Internationals: Honouring the Owls Who Rose to the World Stage
A new Honour Board has been created and presented to recognise the incredible Uni-Norths Owls women who have represented their countries on the international stage — a lasting tribute to their achievements, leadership and legacy in the game.
Each of these players has worn the jersey with pride, broken barriers, and inspired generations to come. Here’s a closer look at their remarkable journeys:
Ashleigh Hewson
Wallaroos #105 – Debut 2009
One of the original modern trailblazers in Australian women’s rugby, Ashleigh Hewson was the general in gold. A calm and commanding presence at fullback and flyhalf, she led with a sharp rugby mind and a precise boot. Ash’s journey helped shape the rise of the women’s game in Australia, and her legacy continues to inspire future playmakers.
Emerena Marsh-Aviga
Wallaroos #107 – Debut 2009
A rock at the heart of the scrum, Emerena Marsh-Aviga brought strength, grit and heart to every game in the number 2 jersey. As a hooker, her work at the coalface never went unnoticed — a true leader in the tough stuff. One of the first Wallaroos to come through Owls, she paved the way for so many to follow.
Charlene Gubb
Black Ferns #108 – Debut 2015
Towering lock Charlene Gubb brought world-class experience with her when she joined Owls after debuting for the Black Ferns in 2015. A dominant presence in the second row, her athleticism, aggression and skill helped set the benchmark for elite locks. From performing the haka in black to leading by example in blue and green, Charlene’s legacy bridges international success and deep club connection, inspiring the next generation of Owls women.
Grace Hamilton
Wallaroos #140 – Debut 2016
Flanker. Captain. Code-hopper. Grace Hamilton’s relentless motor and unshakable leadership lifted the Wallaroos to new heights. After making her test debut in 2016, she went on to captain the national team and become one of the most recognisable faces in the women’s game. Now with the St George NRLW side, Grace’s legacy stretches across codes — and continues to inspire.
Georgia O’Neill
Wallaroos #159 – Debut 2018
Tenacious in defence and fearless over the ball, Georgia O’Neill is the kind of flanker every team dreams of. Since pulling on the green and gold in 2018, her impact has been felt in every ruck, tackle and carry. From Owls to the Wallaroos, Georgia’s journey is one built on heart, hustle and humility.
Siokapesi Palu
Wallaroos #194 – Debut 2022
Inside centre turned flanker, and current captain of the Wallaroos, Siokapesi Palu’s versatility is only matched by her leadership. With power, poise and unmatched footy IQ, Pesi has become the beating heart of Australian rugby. A two-time captain of her country and a proud Pasifika woman, she leads with strength and purpose — and carries the dreams of many.
Tania Naden
Wallaroos #197 – Debut 2022
Tania Naden is all fire and fight in the number 2 jersey. A dynamic hooker with lightning-quick lineout throws and unmatched energy around the park, she debuted for the Wallaroos in 2022 and has since cemented her place. Her toughness and drive reflect her character — one built at the Barn and now shining on the world stage.
Talei Qalo Wilson
Fijiana – Debut 2022
A triple threat across the centre, wing and back row, Talei Qalo Wilson brings flair and ferocity to the Fijiana jersey. Her adaptability and athleticism have lit up the international arena, but it’s her courage and pride that truly set her apart. Talei plays with heart for her islands, her club, and every young girl watching on.
Anasimeci Korovata
Fijiana – Debut 2022
A front-row powerhouse, Anasimeci Korovata brings pure strength and unwavering spirit to every scrum. Debuting for Fijiana in 2022, her rise from Owls prop to international force is a testament to her hard work, belief, and quiet leadership. As one of the first female club captains in Australian rugby, Anasimeci made history off the field as well as on it. Her captaincy at Owls set the tone for generations to come, and her pride in culture and community shines through every carry she makes.
Iris Verebalavu
Fijiana – Debut 2022
Loosehead prop Iris Verebalavu is the definition of quiet strength. With the engine of a back and the work rate of a true forward, she has anchored the Fijiana scrum since her debut in 2022. A former Uni-Norths club captain, Iris leads with humility and heart, always putting in the work for those beside her. Calm, committed, and fiercely proud, she is a rock for her teammates and a shining example of what Owls women bring to the game and the world.
Faitala Moleka
Wallaroos #199 – Debut 2023
A generational talent at flyhalf, Faitala Moleka plays the game like it’s poetry in motion. With a golden boot and unmatched vision, she controls the field with maturity beyond her years. Since debuting in 2023, she’s already shown she’s not just the future — she’s the now. A proud playmaker with roots at Owls and a ceiling yet to be reached.
Fapiola Uoifalelahi
Lofa – Debut 2024
Fapiola Uoifalelahi made her international debut in 2024 with Lofa, bringing raw power and unshakeable pride to the field. Every tackle she makes and every metre she gains is driven by love for her culture and club. A quiet warrior with immense mana, Fapiola’s rise is just beginning.
Lydia Kavoa
Wallaroos #214 – Debut 2024
A former back rower turned unstoppable prop, Lydia Kavoa made her Wallaroos debut in 2024 and immediately made an impact. Her physicality, work ethic, and resilience have made her one of the most exciting front-row prospects in the game. A proud Defence Force member and Owls product, Lydia embodies toughness, grace, and growth.
Ashley Fernandez
Wallaroos #221 – Debut 2025
A rising star in the second row, Ashley Fernandez is already making her mark on the international stage. With strength in the set piece and a relentless motor around the park, she brings impact in every minute. Debuting for the Wallaroos in 2025, Ashley is the newest Owl to wear the green and gold — and she’s only just getting started. Bold, talented, and built for big moments.
