Davis’ design, titled ‘Giv’ǐr Wun’bumba’ which means ‘believe’ in Kabi Kabi language, features shell middens which represent community, gathering, stewardship and caring for Country.
Symbols across the design reflect athletes, staff, and the wider netball community, while paying homage to Kabi Kabi Country and the kangaroo and emu – animals that only move forwards, never backwards.
The artwork will be showcased across First Nations Round with a custom match ball, centre circle design and digital assets.
“It's such an amazing opportunity for any Indigenous person to be able to showcase their art on such a high level,” Davis said.
“It inspires the next generation, which is what it's all about – getting them to be interested in art and storytelling, and keeping these stories alive in these ways.
“Sharing stories that have been passed down by my family, especially with the shell middens. A lot of our shell middens were destroyed, so it's really important to try and keep these stories alive through art, through storytelling.
“It's community, it's gathering, it's sharing. What a beautiful message to have within the artwork that we can share with wider community, and being able to portray those messages of togetherness.
“We all leave our mark on Country, so it's nice to reflect our vibrations as we tread lightly and care for Country and care for one another. I just wanted it to be really flowing and representing the netball community, but also paying homage to Kabi Kabi Country.
“I really wanted to honour the ancient with the contemporary, and blend that together to celebrate the now and what is to come for future generations.”
The league's dedicated First Nations Rounds in 2026 will be held across two weeks in Rounds 11 and 12, coinciding with National Reconciliation Week.
National Reconciliation Week is a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia.
The theme for National Reconciliation Week this year is All In, a call for all Australians to commit wholeheartedly to reconciliation and a reminder that reconciliation is not a spectator sport; all of us must step away from the sidelines and take action to make change.
“National Reconciliation Week reminds us that advancing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ rights is not solely the responsibility of First Nations people,” said Netball Australia’s General Manager, First Nations and proud Kamilaroi woman Ali Tucker-Munro.
“First Nations Round offers an opportunity for the netball community to come together, reflect, and recognise each of our roles in achieving reconciliation.
“It is vital for netball to elevate First Nations voices, increase equitable opportunities for First Nations people, and ensure our sport offers culturally safe and welcoming spaces for all participants.
“First Nations Round is a moment to pause, reflect, and consider where our sport is on its reconciliation journey with Australia’s First Peoples.”
All First Nations Round matches in Rounds 11 and 12 will be available live and free on Kayo Freebies.
Artwork © Zartisha Davis
Proud Kabi Kabi woman
“Giv’ǐr Wun’bumba” (Believe) 2026
