Indigenous player Kyle Laybutt scores last-minute field goal to lead Newcastle Yowies to 25-24 Koori Knockout victory over Bourke Warriors.

Kyle Laybutt, a 30-year-old Indigenous and Papua New Guinean rugby league player, scored a last-minute field goal to help the Newcastle Yowies win the 2025 Koori Knockout final 25-24 against the Bourke Warriors in Tamworth. Though retired from elite play after 124 Hostplus Cup appearances and two NRL games, Laybutt returned for a final, emotional chapter, including an undefeated premiership with the Souths Bulls in Townsville. He skipped the PNG Prime Minister’s XIII to play in the Bindal Sharks All Blacks Carnival, prioritizing grassroots football. His winning kick was described as surreal but confident, reflecting his deep pride in heritage and love for the game.