QMC Podcast Ep 7 - Brisbane Natives Legacy & Indigenous Pathways with Elaine and Patrice Chambers
There’s a version of rugby league most people see.
The games. The scores. The highlights. But this conversation goes deeper.
Inside this QMC Podcast episode, we sit down with two women who have lived and shaped one of the most respected teams in Murri Carnival history — the Brisbane Natives.
This isn’t just about winning. It’s about where it started…
A team of blackfellas coming together in Brisbane, representing community from all over — Cherbourg, Torres Strait, Toowoomba, and beyond.
It’s about growing up on the sidelines, watching family play, and stepping into something that was always bigger than the game.
And it’s about what happens when that foundation turns into legacy.
From building a women’s side in 2014 with nothing more than family, friends, and belief…
To making semi-finals in their first year and going on to create a dominant era — including multiple premierships and a three-peat…
This is the story of how culture, connection, and consistency build champions.
But the real power of this episode sits beyond the field.
You’ll hear about:
· What Murri Carnival is really like — the heat, the grind, the physical toll of playing multiple games a day
· The mindset shift in women’s rugby league — from just showing up to staying ready
· The importance of fitness, discipline, and being coachable in today’s game
· Why the strongest teams aren’t always the flashiest — they’re the most connected
· The role Brisbane Natives have played in shaping pathways for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander girls
This episode also highlights a major gap in the game right now.
The talent is there. The pathways are growing.
But the question remains — are NRLW clubs truly showing up where it matters?
Because if you want to find the next generation of elite players…
You’ll find them at Murri Carnival and Koori Knockout. Beyond footy, this is a story of identity and storytelling.
Through powerful artwork connected to programs like Deadly Choices, we explore how culture is carried not just through teams — but through design, community health initiatives, and visual storytelling that represents mob the right way.
From grassroots to Origin jerseys, the impact goes far beyond the field.
At its core, this episode is about family:
· Building something together.
· Creating a space where people belong.
· And making sure the next generation has somewhere to go.
Because for Brisbane Natives…
It was never just a team.
It became a family.
In this episode, we cover:
· The origins and evolution of Brisbane Natives
· Building a women’s team from the ground up
· The mentality behind sustained success
· The reality of Murri Carnival and elite-level community football
· The rise of women’s pathways into BMD and NRLW
· The importance of mentorship and community connection
· Cultural storytelling through Indigenous artwork
· The future vision for QMC and women’s rugby league
· Advice for the next generation of young girls
Key Takeaways:
· Success is built on connection, not complexity
· Fitness and mindset are non-negotiable at the next level
· Talent exists in community — it just needs to be seen
· Culture is the foundation of everything
· There is always more than one path forward
· Final Message
· For any young girl watching this…
· You don’t have to have it all figured out.
· Make a plan.
· Be open to change.
· Stay coachable.
And most importantly — back yourself. Because the opportunities today are bigger than ever.
Watch / Listen Now
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