Reading the Jersey: A Symbol-by-Symbol Guide

Designed by Beau Pennefather Motlop, an Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and Māori artist, the 2026 Maroons Indigenous Jersey draws on his cultural heritage and lived experience. The design reflects a connection to Torres Strait Islander identity while ensuring representation of both Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.

Every element in this jersey has been deliberately placed. Here’s what each symbol represents:

THE WARRIOR MASK
The warrior mask represents strength, protection and resistance.
It reflects the fighting spirit seen both in culture and in rugby league, physicality, discipline and resilience. It acknowledges the strength of First Nations people and their ongoing legacy.

THE RAINFOREST SHIELD
The rainforest shield symbolises protection and survival.
It represents the ability to endure and adapt, drawing a connection between traditional cultural strength and the demands of the modern game.

THE DHARI (HEADDRESS)
The dhari is a recognised symbol of Torres Strait Islander identity.
Its inclusion anchors the jersey in Torres Strait culture, representing pride, heritage and connection to community.

THE DOEYBAW VINE
The Doeybaw Vine is more than a design detail... it is Reuben Cotter's family totem. Woven into the fabric of the jersey, it represents a deeply personal connection to culture and identity. Its inclusion is a reminder that this jersey carries real stories and real people, stitching the personal legacy of a Queensland Maroon directly into the artwork.

CIRCULAR MOTIFS
The circular patterns represent natural cycles; including tides, weather, the sun and the moon. They reflect the ongoing connection between people, nature and Country, and the idea that everything is interconnected.

BACKGROUND PATTERNS
The background artwork represents Ancestors and ancient songlines.
These patterns acknowledge the passing down of knowledge, stories and cultural practices over thousands of years.

TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER PATTERNS
Traditional Torres Strait Islander design elements are woven throughout the jersey. They represent identity, place and connection to the islands, ensuring the Torres Strait is central to the overall design.

ABORIGINAL ART ELEMENTS
Aboriginal art styles are also incorporated into the design.
This ensures representation of both Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, reflecting the shared identity of the Queensland Maroons.

FLAGS (ABORIGINAL & TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER)
Both flags are featured on the jersey. Their inclusion formally recognises the two distinct First Nations cultures represented within the team and across Queensland.

MĀORI INFLUENCE
Elements of Māori design are included as a nod to the artist’s own heritage.
This acknowledges the broader Indigenous connection across cultures and the personal story behind the artwork.