The Gold Coast will come alive next Saturday, June 21 as the Festival of Female Footy takes over the Piggabeen Sports Complex, marking an action-packed celebration of women’s rugby league and the return of the NRLW season.
In a historic collaboration between the Gold Coast Titans, Tweed Seagulls, QRL and NSWRL; the day will showcase the best of female rugby league across all levels - from grassroots juniors to the elite - in what is the first event of its kind on the Coast.
The highlight of the festival will be the pre-season NRLW clash between the Titans and North Queensland Cowboys at 3pm, as both teams battle it out for the prestigious Brittany Breayley-Nati - Jenni-Sue Hoepper shield.
Named in honour of the two Queensland Rugby League pioneers, the silverware was introduced in 2024 to recognise the contribution of the two women to the game in both regions - the Cowboys the current holders of the trophy after their win in Gordonvale last year.
Titans NRLW head coach Karyn Murphy said the day is an exciting moment not just for her squad, but for the future of the female game.
"This is going to be a really special event for rugby league on the Gold Coast and Northern Rivers," Murphy said.
"To have this many female games being played in one place - from juniors through to the NRLW - is something we’ve never seen before.
"For us, the match against the Cowboys is a crucial part of our pre-season as we build towards our season opener on July 5.
"There’s still plenty of competition for spots, so I know our squad will be out to impress."
Gates open early, with junior development matches from 8.30am featuring teams from Group 1 and Group 18 in the Under 13s, Under 15s and Under 17s, as well as a South East Queensland Under 13s game.
A historic BMD Premiership showdown will also be in the spotlight with a clash of the Titans affiliates at 1pm - Tweed Seagulls hosting the Ipswich Jets.
Beyond the on-field action, the Titans membership team will be on site with giveaways and prize draws, plus the chance to sign up and be part of the Titans NRLW Legion in 2025.
With a full day of footy and elite competition on display, the Festival of Female Footy promises to be a must-attend event for fans of the women’s game.
Tickets are $10 for adults, free for children under 16 and available at the gate.
