Since moving to the club in 2020 as a replacement player from the Melbourne Vixens, Dunkley has become a hugely popular part of the Purple Family as well as a club leader.
The 30-year-old has made 83 SSN appearances – 81 of those for the Firebirds – and was an ever-present in 2025 with 14 appearances including a strong finish to the season which included impressive outings against her former club the Vixens and the NSW Swifts.
Hailing from Yarram in country Victoria, Dunkley is part of a family with elite sporting pedigree with her brother Josh being a two-time AFL premiership-winning footballer while father Andrew and younger brother Kyle have also played AFL football.
“Re-signing with the Firebirds means everything to me,” Dunkley said.
“This club. This team. This Purple Family – it feels like home.
“I can’t wait to be part of the campaign again next season. There’s unfinished business and so much potential in this group.
“I’m all in for building something special together – for our fans, our club and each other.”
Firebirds Head Coach Kiri Wills said re-signing Dunkley not only provides her team with a talented and gutsy competitor in midcourt but a key off-court figure in terms of leadership and culture.
“Lara is a Firebird through-and-through,” Wills said.
“She’s truly loved by everyone at the club but behind the smile is a true competitor who isn’t afraid to put her body on the line. She’s tough and talented with a team-first attitude as well as having proven SSN experience.
“I’m absolutely thrilled that Lara will be staying with us for the 2026 campaign.”
The Queensland Firebirds will share with members and fans announcements on other off-contract athletes as well as new signings in coming days.
2026 Queensland Firebirds Squad
Imogen Allison
Ruby Bakewell-Doran
Mary Cholhok
Lara Dunkley
Macy Gardner
Isabelle Shearer
