The National Rugby League (NRL) is pleased to announce Tahlulah Tillett as the winner of the 2023 Veronica White Medal – Woman of the Year, presented by Westpac, for her outstanding community involvement.
The Cowboys five-eighth was confirmed as the winner as part of the NRL’s Dally M Awards night in Sydney at The Winx Stand, Royal Randwick Racecourse.
The Veronica White Medal – Woman of the Year, presented by Westpac, is given to an NRLW player who has not only achieved on field but has gone above and beyond in committing time off the field to community projects such as charity work, youth development or community support.
Although employed as a community ambassador, Tillett generously donates her time for a multitude of community engagements across Queensland – welcoming Torres Strait Island junior rugby league teams and taking part in clinics at the grass roots level.
Tillett uses rugby league as a platform to promote her culture, the region and its people by teaching Indigenous dances at gala days and sharing the meaning of cultural songs.
She has also overcome four serious knee injuries in her career and uses her story to inspire female youth to be brave, resilient and persevere through challenges.
“Tahlulah is an incredible player, inspirational person and wonderful leader in the game,” NRL CEO Andrew Abdo said.
“Tahlulah has used her own challenges to inspire youth, especially females, to be brave, resilient and to persevere through adversity. She has become a role model and leader in the community.”
The Veronica White Medal – Woman of the Year is proudly supported by Westpac and forms part of the pan66.community Awards, which have become the most significant opportunity for our game’s unsung heroes to receive the recognition and thanks they deserve.
"The Veronica White Medal shines a spotlight on the extraordinary contributions of female rugby league players who are making a significant impact in their local communities,” said Westpac Chief Brand and Marketing Officer, Annabel Fribence.
"At Westpac, we’re proud to support the pan66.community Awards to celebrate the outstanding achievements of women who exemplify unwavering dedication to their local rugby league community, with special recognition to this year's Veronica White Medallist, Tahlulah Tillett.”
Tillett’s supporting charity and junior club will each receive $3,500 as a result of her claiming the Veronica White Medal – Woman of the Year, while all players named alongside Tillett in the NRLW Community Team of the Year will receive $1,000 for their junior club.
