Behind the design of Indigenous Jersey

Having supported the club for decades, proud Indigenous artist Richard Campbell was honoured to represent his culture in designing the Wests Tigers 2024 Indigenous Jersey.

After being approached by his nephew, Jayden ‘Bud’ Sullivan, to produce this year’s strip which will be worn in Round 12 against the Cowboys, Campbell discussed the meaning behind the patterns and symbols displayed on the iconic piece.

“The three circles represent Concord, Leichhardt and Campbelltown,” said Campbell.

“Half the people sitting around the circles represent the women’s rugby league [depicted with sticks next to each person] and the other half is the men’s rugby league.”

“The kangaroo prints leading towards each oval represents unity and the past players of the club.”

“There’s also the three totems on there; the whale, the lyrebird and the goanna, which are the totems that represent the areas of Wests Tigers”.

Campbell also detailed the origins of his near lifelong love for rugby league.

“I started supporting Balmain when I was about ten.

“My cousin Paul Davis, he played for the Tigers, and my other favourite players growing up were Scott Gale and Tim Brasher.”

The Djiringanj man went on to illustrate how proud he is to have his artwork and culture displayed on the jersey of the club he loves so much.

“It means everything, a lot of my family goes for the Wests Tigers as well.

Representing my people and my family in the design I’ve made for this great club is a very proud moment for us.

Richard Campbell Indigenous Artist

“I’ve been painting most of my life, about 30-odd years now and my passion for culture is everything to me."