We chat with Hunter artist Renae Lamb ahead of Indigenous Round

The NRL Indigenous round will be held at McDonald Jones Stadium this weekend and for the first time see both the NRL and NRLW teams run out in a kit emblazoned with the Hunter's heritage.

Hunter-based artist Renae Lamb collaborated with the nib Newcastle Knights on a powerful design celebrating culture, connection, and country.

The NRL Knights play the Panthers Friday night, with NRLW Tigers on Saturday. Secure tickets here.

Renae, a proud Wiradjuri and Wongaibon woman, reflected on what this opportunity meant to her, opened up about the inspiration behind the design, and shared some of her favourite local businesses.

Renae, what an incredible opportunity for you to be a part of, how did the opportunity come your way?
This opportunity came to me through a public expression of interest that the Knights were coordinating for a jersey design.  As someone born and raised on the homelands of the Wonnarua, Awabakal, and Worimi peoples, I’ve always carried a strong sense of place and purpose, not just in my creative work, but in how I walk through the world.

My connection to culture, my background in Global Indigenous Studies, and the work I do through Midnight Dreaming Studio all aligned with what the Knights were seeking: truth-telling through design, and honouring mob with meaning

Can you share some insights around the design of the jersey?
The jersey design, titled Nginhabulagu — meaning “Belonging” in Wiradjuri, tells a story of unity, strength, and shared dreams. At its heart are circular meeting places representing the Knights gathering on Awabakal Country, symbolising healing, knowledge, and strength. Journey lines represent each player's unique path – where they come from, what they’ve overcome, and the shared goal of honouring culture while playing at the highest level.

The central shield is a symbol of cultural identity and protection, and the background is inspired by the beauty of Country, from native flora to flowing waterways.

Where did the inspiration come for these designs come from?
My inspiration came from many places – my culture, my family, and the land that raised me. Every motif is deeply rooted in our collective story as First Nations people. It’s a tribute to the men, women, and youth connected to the Club and to the broader community that walks with them.

I drew strength from my brother Reg, my uncles, and the legacy they built in the game. Their journey – filled with courage, sacrifice, and heart – inspired every element of this design. And Awabakal Country, with its rich beauty and spirit, guided the visual language throughout.

You’ve titled the jersey "Nginhabulagu". What does the name represent, and what significance does it hold for you?
Nginhabulagu means “Belonging” in Wiradjuri. It represents more than just a place on a team. It speaks to connection, to culture, to each other, and to Country. For me, it’s about the deep cultural pride and resilience that unites us as First Nations people and as a community. It’s the feeling of standing together, carrying our stories forward with strength and purpose.

What does an opportunity such as this mean to you as an artist, and as a proud Wiradjuri and Wongaibon woman.
It’s an honour beyond words. This isn’t just about a jersey  it’s about visibility, legacy, and truth. As a proud Wiradjuri and Wongaibon woman, to have the opportunity to share our stories through design on this scale means everything.

I grew up knowing what it felt like to have limited opportunities, so I see this as a powerful moment not just for me, but for the young ones watching. It’s a chance to show them that our stories matter, that our culture is beautiful, and that we belong on every stage.

You are also the CEO and Founder of Midnight Dreaming Studio, can you tell us a little bit more about this and what you hoped to achieve through launching this organisation.
Midnight Dreaming Studio is a space I created to centre Indigenous voices, stories, and creative expression. Through design, storytelling, and truth-telling, I aim to create pathways toward equity, acceptance, and pride for our people. It’s about building something that not only honours where we’ve come from, but lights the way for where we’re going. The studio is built on cultural integrity, creativity, and a commitment to change.

We’re all about keeping it local – can you share THREE of your favourite local businesses that you couldn’t live without:

→  Bowie Coffee – hands down the best coffee in town, always starting my day right.
→  Blankstore – always got my back with local bulk orders and the best community vibe.
→  Walkabout Barber – my go-to for a fresh cut and solid yarns. Always winning and dreaming big with the best support in town. We’re all about working strong together and backing Black business.

In your spare time, what are your THREE top favourite things to do in Newcastle?

→  Hitting the surf and beach walks – nothing beats a sunrise session.
→  Grabbing an acai bowl from Blue Door and snapping some Insta shots while soaking up the sun.
→  Catching a local footy or rugby game and cheering on my daughter playing netball on Saturday mornings for West – proud parent moments!

If you’re needing a short break away from Newcastle, where do you go and why?
I head to Forster, Hawks Nest, Tamworth, or Dubbo (Dub Vegas) to connect with my mob. It’s not far from home, but it feels like paradise. Long drives help me reconnect with my roots – always keeping me thankful, grounded, and full of inspiration. Each trip is a chance to learn, grow, and bring fresh energy to my next art project. It’s not just travel – it’s healing and dreaming.

We also caught up with the nib Newcastle Knights' powerful back-rower, and young gun Evah McEwan.

Joining the Knights NRLW squad in 2024 Evah will be one of the indigenous stars proudly wearing the jersey on home turf when the team face the Tigers on Saturday 9th August.

Evah spoke with pride about wearing the red and blue and shared her excitement about representing Newcastle in “Nginhabulagu” in the upcoming Indigenous rounds.

Evah, you joined the Newcastle Knights in 2024, how has your time with the team been so far?
It’s been great, especially this year. the connection and culture we’ve created in the NRLW space this year has played a huge part and it’s only going to get better.

Where are you originally from?
Born in Penrith, lived in Orange for 6 years then moved back home to Mount Druitt.

The upcoming indigenous round will see you playing in the "Nginhabulagu" kit. As an Aboriginal woman, what does this opportunity mean to you?
It means a lot not only to me but to my family. I’m a proud Wailan/Wiradjuri Woman and to be able to represent my culture, my ancestors and my people on the big stage is why I do what I do. It’s like my fuel. I know my younger brothers look up to me so I’m hoping they carry the same pride in their culture as I do now. I wish I had that when I was younger.

What has been your biggest career highlight to date?
Definitely playing with Samoa and qualifying for the 2026 World Cup. It was a tough campaign for me mentally if I’m being honest. So that made it all worth it and I know it definitely made my family proud.

We’re all about keeping it local – tell me THREE of your favourite local businesses that you couldn’t live without.
‘For You’ studio, best lash tech amazing service such a sweet person. And Ali’s Fresh Juice Bar. The best.

What’s your coffee order?
I’m not really a coffee gal yet. But I have an obsession with sugarcane juice at the moment hahaha.

Speaking of drinks, which local venue knows your order off by heart?
Ali’s Fresh Juice Bar, they know my order 100%. I’m there almost every day. Again, I’m obsessed with sugarcane juice, and they are such lovely people.

Get your limited-edition jersey from the merch stand on game day, in-store, or online—and enjoy 10% off if you’re a 2025 Knights Member.

Don’t miss your chance to own this limited-edition piece of Knights history.