The highly anticipated 2025 Wheelchair Rugby League Ashes Test Series between the Australian Wheelaroos and England was officially launched with a prestigious Ministerial Reception at Queensland Parliament House in Brisbane.
Hosted by Tim Mander MP, Minister of Sport and Racing, and Minister for the Olympic and Paralympic Games, the event marked the beginning of a world-class international contest between the Australian Wheelaroos and reigning World Champions, England - two of the most dominant forces in the sport.
"I'm thrilled to be hosting our elite Wheelchair Rugby League athletes here in Queensland, Australia's sporting capital," Minister Mander said.
"As we gear up for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, Queensland is committed to becoming a global leader in para sport and a premier destination for inclusive, world-class sporting events.
"There's always an electric atmosphere when Australia and England face off, and I encourage everyone to head to the Gold Coast to cheer on our mighty Wheelaroos."
The series kicks off this Thursday on the Gold Coast, with the Wheelaroos set to defend the Ashes on home soil in what promises to be a fast-paced, tactically brilliant, and physically intense showdown.
A key moment of the ceremony was the official Wheelaroos jersey presentation, underscoring the honour and responsibility of national representation at the highest level.
Australian captain Brad Grove, preparing for his 20th international cap, said the team is primed for elite competition.
"Representing Australia is always a privilege, and today's reception at Parliament House truly shows how far our sport has progressed," Groves said.
"Being welcomed on this stage is a reminder of the responsibility we carry. This Ashes Series will be elite, fast-paced and fiercely competitive - and we're ready to do our country proud."
England captain, Lewis King, said the team has arrived determined and focused on reclaiming the Ashes.
"The rivalry between England and Australia is unlike any other, and that's what makes the Ashes so special. We have enormous respect for the Wheelaroos, but we're here with one goal - to bring the Ashes back home," King said.
NRL Wheelchair Chair Darren Gocher said the reception reflects the sport's evolution into a high-performance discipline.
"Wheelchair Rugby League has reached a new level. This series showcases elite performance and drives of world-class competition for both nations. It's not just a contest - it's a benchmark for international wheelchair sport," Gocher said.
Wheelchair Rugby League continues to grow rapidly in participation, professionalism, and public profile, inspiring fans through its electrifying athleticism, tactical brilliance, and the personal resilience of its athletes.
This year's Ashes Series is expected to attract record attendance and livestream audiences both domestically and internationally.
2025 Wheelchair Rugby League Ashes Series
First Test: Thursday, 30 October 2025, 4pm
Second Test: Sunday, 2 November 2025, 3pm
Tickets: NRLWheelchair.com.au
