Simaima Taufa and Zahara Temara, the Canberra Raiders inaugural NRLW co-captains, have re-signed with the club.

Temara has extended her time in Canberra until the end of the 2026 season, while Taufa will remain in the nation’s capital until the end of 2027.

The duo were an integral part of the Raiders inaugural NRLW season in 2023, leading the team to five wins and just missing out on a semi finals appearance in the club’s first year.

Raiders NRLW coach Darrin Borthwick is excited to be able to lock in the pair’s long-term playing futures.

“I think it’s a credit to the work that Simaima put in in our inaugural season and the work that she did as our captain and leader,” Borthwick said.

“To know that she’s secured here for some time now, I know that this place will be held in good stead and the culture that we built in year one will be well and truly looked after in years to come.

“Zahara and Simaima are hand in hand, they are both our co-captains. Zahara had a great year last year and to know that we’ve got her locked away here as a Raider for a few more years is terrific.

“I’m happy for both girls that it gives them a little bit of stability as well, that’s where our game is going at the moment. They’ve got contracts they can sign long term and stability and knowing where they are going to be is a big thing. It’s going to improve us as a team and a club as well.

“From where the NRLW competition started with three rounds, the money they were getting back then, I guess it’s a good part of the job too to see how far it’s come. To see both our captains not only look after their future but looking after themselves post-footy as well is great.”

Taufa said she is pleased to continue being part of the club’s NRLW journey.

“I am extremely proud, grateful and honoured to be able to call Canberra home for the next few years,” Taufa said.

“The journey of the Canberra Raiders NRLW team has only begun and there’s a lot to look forward to.

“To the current and future players of this club, to our incredible staff and community, I can’t wait to create history and continue to build a legacy here at home.”

Temara said she is excited to remain at the Raiders and be back in the Canberra community.  

“I love this club. It’s a family club and that’s big for me,” Temara said.

“The people and the community, they’re all a part of why I want to stay here. I want to be a part of the legacy we started and are continuing to build in Canberra. “I’m very blessed that I get to extend.”