StreetSmarts SUNS Academy trio Mia Salisbury, Heidi Talbot and Sunny Lappin have all penned extensions to remain in the red, gold and blue beyond the 2026 season.
The Gold Coast SUNS have secured the services of 2025 draftee Sunny Lappin for the long term, locking her onto the list for an additional two seasons. The 18-year-old starred for the StreetSmarts SUNS Academy and Queensland in 2025, finishing runner-up in the National Championships Best and Fairest before claiming SUNS Academy Female Player of the Year.
Electric North Cairns product Heidi Talbot has inked a two-year deal, tying her to the Gold Coast until at least the end of 2028. Despite a shoulder injury sidelining her first season, the hard-running utility is fit and firing to debut in the SUNS forward line this year.
Fellow 2024 draftee and rebounding defender Mia Salisbury has signed on with the SUNS for another season, taking her through to the end of 2027. The Coolangatta/Tweed Blues junior debuted in the 2025 season opener and featured across the Gold Coast's defensive territory in all but one match.
Gold Coast SUNS fans will be excited to see more Queensland talent committed to the club, with the trio forming three of 17 Academy graduates currently on the SUNS AFLW list.
“We’re thrilled to extend Mia, Heidi and Sunny, three former Gold Coast SUNS Academy graduates,” Gold Coast SUNS AFLW Recruiting Officer Thomas Waldron said.
“They have all shown significant development throughout pre-season and we’re excited to see them showcase this as we begin season 2026.
“We look forward to them being important members of our playing squad in the years ahead.”
The young SUNS will be eyeing an opportunity to take on the Brisbane Lions in the final pre-season hit-out this Sunday, 2 August following the AFL Round 21 clash at People First Stadium. Secure your seats to the Gold Coast’s AFL/AFLW double-header with a valid ticket to the AFL.
The 2026 NAB AFLW Season kicks off on Saturday, 15 August at People First Stadium. Catch the SUNS in action against the Western Bulldogs with a SUNS AFLW membership.
