Over the past four years, Queensland Oztag has continued to invest strongly in referee development, sending 20 junior referees each year to New Zealand to officiate at their Junior Nationals tournament.

The initiative has provided young referees with invaluable international experience, exposing them to high-level competition, different playing styles, and the responsibilities that come with officiating on a bigger stage.

 

A Landmark Moment in 2025

In 2025, the program reached a significant milestone with the selection of an all-girls junior referee squad. A total of 20 female referees, all aged between 15 and 18, travelled to New Zealand, supported by three experienced female adult referees who acted as supervisors and mentors throughout the tour.

All referees were based on the Gold Coast, representing Tweed Coast, Miami, Labrador and Coomera Oztag, and officiated across the 13s to 16s divisions at the tournament.

The tour marked a powerful step forward for female representation in officiating, providing young women with meaningful opportunities to lead, grow, and represent Queensland Oztag on an international stage.

The tour was funded by the referees, who worked together to raise the necessary funds through fundraising initiatives and by volunteering in the canteen at Labrador Oztag. Their efforts highlighted not only their passion for officiating, but their willingness to invest in their own development, a testament to the dedication and professionalism already being shown at such a young age.

 

Building the Future of Officiating

Programs like this are vital to the long-term strength of Oztag. By creating opportunities for junior referees, particularly young women, Queensland Oztag continues to build a sustainable, inclusive and high-quality officiating pathway.

Australian Oztag congratulates all referees involved, along with the associations that supported them, for setting a standard that will inspire the next generation of officials across the country.