Mark Ella

Mark Ella is rugby union star, widely regarded as one of the greatest fly-halves ever to play for Wallabies. He played 25 Tests for Australia between 1980 and 1984 captaining the team on 10 occasions. From a family of twelve children raised in the La Perouse, he and his brothers Glen and Gary learnt the game at Matraville High School before joining club side Randwick Rugby Club, winning multiple premierships.

Ella’s rugby legacy is crowned by the 1984 Grand Slam tour of Britain and Ireland, he scored a try in each Test against England, Ireland, Wales and Scotland, cementing his place in rugby history. His rugby brilliance, characterised by lightning-fast hands, an uncanny sense of space, and visionary playmaking, inspired teammates and fans alike.

After retiring at just 25, Ella channelled his energy into business, media and Aboriginal community work. He founded a communications agency, served on boards including the Rio Tinto Indigenous Foundation and Stadium Australia, and since 2011 has led sport programming at NITV, Australia’s Indigenous television network.

Reflecting on his roots, Ella said of growing up in La Perouse: “There’s a lot of respect for the Elders that I’ve dealt with over the years. It’s a unique culture that I’m very proud of being involved with.” Recognising his outstanding contributions on and off the field, Ella was made a Member of the Order of Australia (AM), named Young Australian of the Year (1982), and in 2023 elevated to “Legend” status in the Sport Australia Hall of Fame.

Mark Ella remains a powerful symbol of Indigenous excellence in sport, and a strong voice for community, culture and identity.