Daine Laurie

Daine Laurie is a rugby league player whose career and cultural leadership have made him a strong role model for young people. Born in 1999 and raised in New South Wales, Laurie comes from a close-knit family and has spoken often about the importance of culture, Elders and community in shaping his life.

Laurie was signed to Penrith as a young player and made his NRL debut for the Panthers in 2020 before moving to the West Tigers, where he became a fan favourite for his speed, creativity and effort in attack. In 2024 he returned to Penrith, continuing to develop his game in first grade and NSW Cup. Off the field, he is widely recognised for the pride he takes in his identity, wearing his culture openly and respectfully, including through Indigenous Round, community outreach and digital storytelling.

Laurie has used his profile to promote Aboriginal visibility in mainstream sport and regularly appears in school and club settings to encourage young Aboriginal children to stay connected to language, family and Country while pursuing their goals. Through his play and his public presence, Laurie shows that success in professional sport can go hand-in-hand with responsibility to community, cultural strength and generosity of spirit. His journey continues to inspire both rugby league supporters and Aboriginal young people across Australia.