NRL Cowboys House boarder and Year 8 student Pryce Mara has become the youngest artist ever to have a design featured on the North Queensland Toyota Cowboys annual Indigenous apparel range.

The 13-year-old from Bamaga, in remote Far North Queensland, created the design as part of the NRL Cowboys House cultural program, with his artwork to adorn the 2026 Cowboys Indigenous jersey and NRL Cowboys House polo and singlet.

The design was officially unveiled at the NRL Cowboys House Kit Launch, supported by sleeve sponsor Australian Reinforcing Company and shorts sponsor Training and Personnel Australia, with the young artist telling the story of his design to fellow students, family, staff and supporters on stage.

Titled “Ngaw Gidha” (My Story), Pryce’s artwork reflects his identity as both Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and tells the story of his connection to Bamaga and the Torres Strait Islands.

Design story – NGAW GIDHA (MY STORY) by Pryce Mara

This artwork tells my story – where I come from and who I am.

The bottom part of the design, in red, brown and yellow, represents the mainland at Bamaga, the tip of Australia, where I’m from. The top part, in blues and greens, represents the Torres Strait Islands – Badu, Mabuiag and Saibai – where my family bloodlines come from.

I am both Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, so this design shows the connection between land and sea, and how both are part of me. When I think of home, these are the images that come to mind.

I included the shape of Australia and the dhoeri, the Torres Strait Islander headdress, because they are important symbols of my culture and identity. The patterns across the artwork represent culture and storytelling. I’m still learning what they all mean in my culture.

When people see my design, I hope they see that I’m young, that I represent both Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, and that I’m proud of who I am.

Pryce, who attends Kirwan State High School, drew inspiration from his family, his Country and the place he calls home when creating his design.

Guided by his uncle Edmond, Pryce continues to learn about cultural storytelling through art while balancing school, basketball and boarding life in Townsville.

“This is my first proper art piece,” Pryce said. “I feel proud – and a little bit shy at the same time.”

“When I think of home, these are the images that come to mind. It felt like the design just came to me. 

“I hope people see that I’m young, that I represent both Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, and that people think it looks good.”

Outside of art, Pryce enjoys basketball, fishing, gaming and spending time with friends, and dreams of one day playing in the NBA.

Cowboys Community Foundation CEO Fiona Pelling said the design selection was a special achievement for Pryce and a proud moment for his family and home community, and the broader Cowboys family.

“We’re incredibly proud of Pryce and the way he has shared his story through this artwork,” Ms Pelling said.

“This design is thoughtful, authentic and full of pride in culture and identity, and it’s amazing to see someone so young create something with such meaning.

“NRL Cowboys House is all about creating opportunities for young people to grow in confidence, stay connected to culture and pursue their passions, and Pryce is a wonderful example of that.

“To see one of our students become the youngest designer in the history of the Cowboys Indigenous range is really special for everyone connected to the program.”

North Queensland Cowboys CEO Micheal Luck said the club was excited to showcase Pryce’s artwork on one of the most significant jerseys of the season.

“The design is really striking and has such a strong story behind it,” Mr Luck said.

“Pryce has created something incredibly meaningful that represents both his culture and his journey, and I know our players are going to love wearing it.

“It’s fantastic to see a young person from NRL Cowboys House given the opportunity to share his story on such a big stage.”

The 2026 Indigenous range is expected to be available at the Cowboys Team Shop from early July.