The Tillett family has a rich history in North Queensland rugby league and today 24-year-old Tahlulah Tillett has added her own chapter.
Tillett has signed a one-year contract with the North Queensland Toyota Cowboys NRLW side for their inaugural 2023 season.
A talented halfback from Cairns, Tillett is a long-time member of the Cowboys Women’s Academy and played four games for the Newcastle Knights during the 2021 NRLW season.
Tillett appeared in 14 games for the North Queensland Gold Stars in the BMD Premiership across the 2021-2022 seasons, including a starring role in the 14-12 grand final triumph last season. Tillett set up a crucial first half try in the decider and made an enormous 29 tackles with just one miss to help the Gold Stars secure a thrilling comeback victory.
Tillett’s father Stephen played reserve grade for the Cowboys in their inaugural season in 1995 and her grandfather Nigel is the current chairman of Cowboys feeder club the Northern Pride.
“Tahlulah has been a highly talented touch footballer from a young age,” Cowboys NRLW Head Coach Ben Jeffries said.
“She’s a homegrown product from Cairns who brings Indigenous All-Stars and NRLW experience with her. She was also part of the core group who won the inaugural QRLW 2022 premiership with the NQ Gold Stars.
“As a proud Torres Strait Islander and a prominent figure within her community, Tahlulah will have an influence on the group from both a cultural aspect and her performance on the field.”
Participants in the Cowboys community programs will already be familiar with Tillett’s easy-going nature and sunny smile, as she continues her role as Cowboys community engagement officer alongside her NRLW playing and training commitments.
Since joining the Cowboys Community team in 2022, Tillett has been involved in community programs including Adopt-a-School, Try for 5!, Try Time! and game participation, visiting schools, clubs and communities across the region and acting as a role model for young women on and off the field.
