Manunda has secured a major boost ahead of Round six of the AFL Cairns competition, confirming former AFL premiership stars Liam Shiels and Isaac Smith will line up for the Hawks against the Port Douglas Crocs at Cazalys.
The highly anticipated match, set to take place during Indigenous Round on Saturday, May 16 is expected to draw strong community interest as the Hawks continue to build momentum throughout the 2026 season.
Shiels, a triple premiership midfielder with Hawthorn and former vice-captain, brings 288 games of AFL experience, while Smith arrives as a 280 game, four-time premiership player and Norm Smith Medallist, recognised for his standout performance in the 2022 AFL Grand Final against the Sydney Swans.
Hawks President Andrew Welsford said the inclusion of both players was a significant moment for the club and community.
“This is a proud moment for Manunda. To have players of this calibre join us, particularly during Indigenous Round, is something special for our club and our supporters,” he said.
Operations Manager Michael Barnes said the opportunity extended beyond football.
“It’s about creating an experience for our players and our community. Having Liam and Isaac here will inspire our group and give our young players a chance to see what elite preparation and professionalism looks like,” he said.
Coach Brad Johansen said the focus remains on performance.
“They bring experience and composure, but for us it’s about how we apply ourselves on the day. We’re building something, and this is another step forward,” he said.
The Round six clash shapes as one of the highlights of the AFL Cairns season.
