The Queensland Reds partnered with Tonga Rugby Union, His Majesty's Armed Forces (HMAF), and the Australian Defence Force to conduct an intensive coaching clinic and training for HMAF players and coaches, yesterday 23 July 2024.

The session focused on core skills and high-performance development with several decision-making drills under fatigue..

Wallabies and Tongan rugby legend George Smith and Australian Wallaroo Bree-Anna Brown, who serves full-time in the Australian Army, led the training exercise.

The organisers said that this initiative highlights the strength of the defence ties between Tonga and Australia and further strengthens the unique bond between the two nations, both on and off the field.

The Assistant Defence Advisor South Pacific and former Wallaroo, Major Caroline Fairs expressed her gratitude to the Reds Ambassadors, and the staff from Queensland Reds.

"Today's session was an amazing opportunity for both teams to learn from the best, providing a solid foundation for their preparation and leading up to the International Defence Rugby Championships early next year."
 "This was a very special moment for me in Tonga. I got to combine my two favourite things - rugby and army" said Bree-Anna Brown, who spent time on and off the field with her defence family in Tonga, and thanked HMAF for the warm reception.

Queensland Reds

Meanwhile, the Reds arrived in Tonga ahead of the Australian Government-supported double-header games against the Lofa and ‘Ikale Tahi.

The Reds have a full schedule this week, packed with community and high-performance activities around the Kingdom, ahead of the match.

This include coach education and training, community engagements, school visits and others.

Both the Red's men and women's teams are set and ready to tackle Tonga's 'Ikale Tahi and Lofas at Teufaiva Stadium in Nuku'alofa this Friday, 26 July 2024.