Dunkley arrived at the Firebirds in 2020 as a replacement player from the Melbourne Vixens and since then Firebird No.101 has developed into an absolute cornerstone of the Firebirds midcourt.
Using her physical strength, height and fierce competitiveness to great effect on court, Dunkley has become just as influential off it, establishing herself as a genuine cultural leader within the club.
She was recognised by her peers as the Firebirds Players' Player of the Year in 2025, a reflection of the respect she commands throughout the playing group.
Dunkley played all 14 games during the 2026 season, taking her career tally to 97 Super Netball appearances - 95 of those in Firebirds colours - and will now have every opportunity to reach the milestone of a Super Netball century during the 2027 campaign.
“I’m so incredibly proud to be signing on for another season with the Firebirds,” Dunkley said.
“This club means so much to me and I can’t wait to wear the purple, represent my teammates and give everything I’ve got for this club and everyone who supports us.
"I'm looking forward to getting started, putting in the work and building towards a successful season."
Firebirds Head Coach Kiri Wills said securing Dunkley's signature was an important piece of the club's planning for 2027.
“Lara is the heartbeat of our team and a huge part of who we are as a club,” Wills said.
“Her competitiveness, her physicality and her never-say-die attitude are invaluable to us on court, but it's the way she connects our players and staff off it that makes her truly irreplaceable.
“She lives and breathes the Purple Family, and we're thrilled she's chosen to continue that journey with us into 2027.”
As influential off the court as she is on it, the Firebirds look forward to Dunkley’s leadership and legacy continuing to grow throughout the 2027 season.
Want to be part of the Purple Family in 2027? Register your interest to be the first to know when memberships launch:
