Give Bulikula the heroes' welcome they deserve
Fiji must seriously invest money behind women’s rugby league.
Tuesday 10 November 2026 | 11:00
Vodafone sponsored Fiji Bulikula players during their Captain’s run in Gold Coast, Australia, on October 30, 2026.
Photo: Vodafone Fiji
The Bulikula women’s rugby league team should be accorded a national celebration after their historic performance at the 2026 Rugby League World Cup in Australia (RLWC).
Especially when they, as World Cup debutants, almost dethroned world champion Australia.
Within weeks, the Bulikula have stamped Fiji in world women’s rugby league. It’s a rare global achievement.
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Their courageous semi-final 14-30 loss to Australia deserves national celebration just like past sports wins such as the Melrose 7s Cup in 2005, and Olympic Games Rio 2016 gold medal.
Bulikula defeated Australia-backed Papua New Guinea Orchids 40-0 and France 54-6, and lost narrowly to New Zealand. They were watched by billions of people globally.
So, Government must spread the red carpet treat. The Bulikula reps played well because Fiji National Rugby League new chairman Rajesh Singh and coach Jone Wesele ensured they received financial backing, preparation and attention to their welfare and families before the World Cup.
The Vuvale Partnership with Australia and $700,000 helped Fiji’s World Cup campaign.
It’s simple math for leaders: money spent on athletes, preparation and welfare can propel Fiji to international wins. Australia reportedly paid each 23 Jillaroos player $AU40,000 ($FJ62k).
Player payments alone is $AU920,000 ($FJ1.336 million). That is the commitment Fiji must follow, not simply admire. Why should Fiji expect world-class wins if proper sports investment is not in place?
Now is the time for long-term development programme for the Bulikula as part of national women empowerment. Their success should be rewarded.
Players’ welfare during and post-career should be guaranteed and supported. The 2030 World Cup expansion to 10 women’s teams gives Fiji four years to prepare. Starting now.
The next National Budget must include more allocation to stop FNRL begging for sponsors and partnerships. Rugby league is among the dreams and inspirations of Fijian youths.
Singh and FNRL have shown what investment can achieve. Next is the National Rugby League Women’s competition. Government must not close the doors of assistance and coffers.
It is time to bring the Bulikula queens home, celebrate their achievement, and promise them that cheques will be signed where Fijian pride is..
