Dane Gagai joined Triple M following the 2024 NRL All Stars Match between the Indigenous and Maori sides.
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Playing for the Maori’s, Gagai was disappointed in his team’s 22-14 loss, but was still struck by his proudness of representing both All-Star outfits throughout his career.
“Mum was born over in New Zealand, she moved over to Mackay and met my Dad
who’s from the Torres Strait Islands,” said Gagai.
“I’m very privileged to have those two strong cultures. I’ve been very fortunate to represent both of them.”
The Newcastle Knights & Queensland Maroons star played for the Indigenous side between 2015-2017, then switched over to his Mum’s half of the family in 2019.
Yet, in a match all about celebrating tradition and culture, Gagai was given an emotional and well deserved honour pre-match during the Maori haka.
“Our spiritual leader came up to me during the week and asked me if I wanted to take a part.
“The first part I was actually speaking in my Grandfather’s native tongue from the Badu Islands [Torres Strait].
“It was a very special moment for myself to represent both sides of my culture.”