The jersey will be worn by both the club’s men’s and women’s teams during their charity and Indigenous rounds.

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King discussed the meaning behind the patterns, symbols and colours used in his design with News Of The Area (NOTA).

‘Connection and Coming Together’ are the themes behind the design, King told NOTA.

“The stingray is a powerful symbol,” he said.

“There are two stingrays used in this design.

“One stingray represents the male players, while the second stingray represents the female players.

“Both stingrays are looking up and their wings are almost joining, this symbolises both the male and female teams coming together.”

King told NOTA the river system depicted on the jersey is symbolic of a switch.

“When we cross the river we change within ourselves; we take on the role of the warrior,” he said.

“The warrior is needed for the battle on the field and the weapons depicted in the design represent protection for the players when they are in warrior mode.

“The players are fighting for the win, but when we cross back over from the river we return to ourselves – we switch our frame of mine.”

The inspiration for King’s artwork comes from the natural world around him – the Earth, the beach and the river systems of Camden Haven.

“Each colour represents a different region of the Camden Haven area, including the mountains, forests, rivers systems and the coastline,” he said.

For King, the Indigenous Round embodies “a safe space” for discussion and learning about the history of First Nations people.

“When I see someone wearing one of my designs, or any Aboriginal design on a shirt, for me they are showing support,” he said.

“Support for Aboriginal people and support for a time to talk,” King told NOTA.

“My nan and pop always told me: ‘You’re going to be Aboriginal your whole life, so you need to get the best education that you can so that you can bridge the gap and share your culture with others’.

“If I can help bridge that gap, even with just one person, then that’s what I’m going to do,” he said.

This sentiment is shared by National Rugby League (NRL) CEO Andrew Abdo.

“Since 2015, the annual NRL Indigenous Round has elevated and celebrated First Nations history and culture through the game, strengthening its commitment to learning from and celebrating the success of First Nations people, who continue to make a significant contribution across all facets of the game.

“The NRL is committed to the continued promotion of inclusivity, education, and empowerment of First Nations people and creating a positive impact that goes beyond Rugby League,” Mr Abdo said.

By Kim AMBROSE