The ACT Brumbies burst onto the Super Rugby scene in 1996 as a bold new franchise, after ACT rugby’s push for recognition became impossible to ignore — especially following the ACT Kookaburras’ 44–28 defeat of a full-strength NSW Waratahs at Concord Oval.
Guided by coach Rod Macqueen, the ACT Brumbies were made up of what many called “the misfits and rejects” of Australian rugby — and we wore it as a badge of honour. Foundation figures such as Brett Robinson, Patricio Noriega and David Giffin helped set a culture of grit, skill, and unwavering belief, anchored in a fierce connection to Canberra.
Those early Brumbies, clad in oversized cotton jerseys and with fire in their eyes, forged the DNA that would carry the club for decades. From day one, we were more than a team — we were a statement: Canberra rugby could stand at the coalface and take on the world’s best.
In 2001, the ACT Brumbies claimed our first Super Rugby title, defeating the Coastal Sharks 36–6 at a packed Bruce Stadium.
Under the steely gaze and calm control of George Gregan, alongside the classy brilliance of his halves partner Stephen Larkham, we stamped our name into the history books. True to the insignia on our chest, we cantered to the top of the table, running rugby proving our secret to success. Firebrand hooker Jeremy Paul, barnstorming number 8 Jim Williams, the wily Justin Harrison, and the graceful Andrew Walker highlighted a side that stuck to its guns and played with pride.
The 2001 championship remains a cherished memory for Canberrans and proof that our young club had earned its place in the competition.
In 2004, the ACT Brumbies’ name was once again engraved onto the Super Rugby trophy, galloping to a thrilling 47–38 victory over the Canterbury Crusaders in front of 28,753 roaring Canberrans.
The 2004 squad was a force of nature. Stirling Mortlock led with fearless intensity, Owen Finegan and Radike Samo smashed through defences with raw aggression, Joe Roff lit up the sidelines with finishing brilliance, George Smith mesmerised with all-round skill, and a young Matt Giteau announced himself as a star for the ages.
Our second championship cemented Canberra rugby as an international force, and solidified a dynasty, a club with unshakeable support that echoes through the mountains surrounding the nation’s capital.
The Brumbies had been through a lean stretch, but 2013 marked our return to the Super Rugby spotlight. It was a season built on beating the odds, punctuated by one of the greatest nights in the club’s history: our famous David vs Goliath victory over the British & Irish Lions.
The touring juggernaut rolled into town and, on a freezing Canberra night — with several of our top Wallabies away on international duty — we stunned the rugby world with a 14–12 triumph, proving Brumbies rugby cannot be tamed.
Riding the momentum of that Lions upset, we carried the belief through the entire season. Captain Ben Mowen led a side that played with speed, discipline, and conviction. Anchored by the poise of Christian Leali'ifano and Matt To’omua, the power of Ben Alexander, Scott Sio and Stephen Moore, the relentless impact of David Pocock, and the speed of Henry Speight, we rebuilt our identity. Our Super Rugby Grand Final appearance wasn’t about the result — it was a reminder that Canberra rugby was back where it belonged.
In 2018, the Brumbies story grew with the launch of Super W — but long before this, Canberra women had been fighting for every opportunity. Pioneers from the Canberra Kestrels and players like Louise Burrows and Michelle Milward helped lay the foundations, proving that elite rugby in the capital could belong to anyone with drive, skill, and passion.
Super W simply provided our women with the stage to shine. Today’s leaders carry that legacy: Siokapesi Palu charges with fierce determination, Tabua Tuinakauvadra dominates with ball in hand, and Tania Naden combines precision and power around the park.
Our Super W program was built on the shoulders of these women and is carried forward by future leaders. High-performance rugby in Canberra belongs to everyone. From grassroots to elite, we break barriers, expand the Brumbies’ identity, and inspire the next generation. On the field, in the community, and beyond, we are shaping the future of women’s rugby in Canberra.
The 2020 season forced Super Rugby to adapt, and the Brumbies leaned on a culture of resilience to deliver like only we can. In a year turned upside down, we kept the spirit going and rose to every challenge, culminating in the inaugural Super Rugby AU title.
Captain Allan Alaalatoa led with authority, and young playmaker Noah Lolesio proved he was more than up to the task. Tevita Kuridrani was a powerful force in midfield, breaking lines and imposing himself on every carry, while Andy Muirhead lit up the wing with a never-say-die attitude.
Together, we navigated a disrupted season and added another proud page to our history. The trophy stood as proof to ourselves and our fans: the Brumbies thrive under pressure.
Thirty years after we first ran out onto a Super Rugby field, the Brumbies stand as a club defined by culture. We are wild and free, and tough and exciting is what we strive to be.
The modern era brings flashes of brilliance while still harking back to the verve of ‘96. The strike of Tom Wright, the unabashed power of Rob Valetini, Ryan Lonergan’s control, James Slipper’s resilience, and the irrepressible spark of Charlie Cale, Corey Toole, and Billy Pollard all define who we are today — and who we will continue to be.
Our Super W story continues to grow. The vision and skill of Faitala Moleka, and the lineout dominance of Ashley Fernandez are proof that high-performance rugby is here to stay in Canberra. Together, we build upon the foundation, ensuring the Brumbies continue to shape the next generation.
We are a club united — past and present, Canberra and beyond. Every season is a chance to honour our past, perform for our community, and keep writing the story of ACT rugby, just as we have for the last 30 years.
We are, and always will be, proud to be in rugby with a Brumby on our chest.
