Overview

• Melbourne Storm canceled a planned Welcome to Country ceremony by Wurundjeri elder Aunty Joy Murphy Wandin shortly before its Anzac Day match against the Rabbitohs, citing a 'miscommunication of expectations.'
• The club reversed its decision and invited Ms. Murphy Wandin to proceed, but she and the Djirri Djirri dance group declined, citing disrespect and emotional harm.
• Two additional First Nations groups also canceled their scheduled performances, deepening the fallout from the incident.
• Storm coach Craig Bellamy stated he was unaware of the cancellation, highlighting internal communication gaps within the organization.
• The club has apologized publicly, but Ms. Murphy Wandin emphasized the need to rebuild trust and respect in future engagements with First Nations communities.