NRL Victoria has officially launched its 2026 Female Footy Festival, with Hume City Council Lord Mayor Cr Carly Moore joining players from the Hume Eagles, Sunbury Tigers, Northern Thunder clubs and the Melbourne Storm's Lisa Fiaola program at Seabrook Reserve ahead of the festival on Sunday 19 July.
The Female Footy Festival is a dedicated celebration of girls' and women's rugby league in Victoria, with every female competition match across the state coming together at Seabrook Reserve for a showcase of the game's talent, community and rapid growth.
The festival reflects the extraordinary rise of female participation across Victoria, with the women's game growing by 175% across metropolitan Melbourne and by more than 200% in Hume over recent years.
NRL Victoria Senior Manager Adam Woolnough said the festival was an opportunity to recognise the incredible momentum behind women's rugby league in Victoria, while providing a platform where female athletes can be celebrated by their community.
"The growth we've experienced has been remarkable. To see participation increase by 175% across Melbourne, and more than 200% in Hume City Council, is a testament to the commitment of our clubs, schools, volunteers and the wider rugby league community," Woolnough said.
"We're proud to bring every female competition together for one day to showcase the talent, passion and sense of community that makes our game so special. This festival demonstrates that the women's rugby league has a bright future in Victoria."
Hume City Council Lord Mayor Cr Carly Moore welcomed the opportunity to support the event and highlighted the importance of creating opportunities for women and girls to participate in sport.
"There are amazing people here doing amazing things and showing genuine care for others. What would we rather these girls be doing?” Cr Moore said.
The Female Footy Festival will feature a full day of junior and senior female rugby league, bringing together players, families and supporters from across Melbourne in a celebration of the continued growth of the women's game.
Melbourne Storm's Female Pathways Manager, Pauline Poloai, sees the Female Footy Festival as an opportunity to showcase the incredible contributions of our volunteers, referees, coaches, and players who continue to drive the game forward across Victoria.
"The growth of the female game has been nothing short of remarkable and the momentum that continues to build on each year. A significant milestone this year was the launch of our inaugural Lisa Fiaola and Tarsha Gale programs, with Melbourne Storm proudly becoming the 14th team to join the NSWRL Female competitions," Poloai said.
"This achievement represents far more than new teams entering a competition. It is another important step towards creating a genuine female pathway in Victoria.
"With the continued support of our community and the dedication of all NRL Victoria Clubs involved, the future is incredibly bright as we work towards the long-term vision of seeing Victorian developed players thrive on the NRLW stage."
Event Details: Female Footy Festival
Date: Sunday 19 July 2026
Venue: Seabrook Reserve, Broadmeadows
Fixture: Play Rugby League
NRL Victoria invites the broader community to come along, support the players and experience one of the biggest celebrations of women's rugby league on the Victorian sporting calendar.
To learn more about rugby league and how to get involved click here.
