Aussie Flyers win on ice battle against rivals Ice Fernz

Aussie Flyers win on ice battle against ultimate rivals Ice Fernz

The Aussie Flyers have come out on top in the first ever Women’s Ice Hockey Trans-Tasman event, taking victory over New Zealand 2 games to 0.

In the first event of its kind for women’s ice hockey in Australia, the two-match series solidified the growing strength and popularity of the sport as the nation continues to make waves on the world stage.

In front of a loud and proud packed-out crowd at Hunter Ice Skating Stadium in Newcastle, NSW, the Aussie Flyers took a commanding victory in game one, beating the Ice Fernz 5-0. With leading scorers Lindsey Kiliwnik (2 goals) Christina Julien (2 goals), as well as a standout performance from Tash Farrier and goaltender Sasha King, the Aussie Flyers made a statement.

Reflecting on the event, Ice Hockey Australia General Manager Adam Woolnough said it was a historic moment for women’s ice hockey in the region.

“The performance as a whole was an incredible display of the talent we have here in Australia,” said Woolnough.

“Our Women’s National Team has been going from strength to strength in recent years. There are more pathways than ever for women into our sport. There has never been a better time for people to get involved in ice hockey.

“Australia has shown so much growth and support for women’s sport over the past decade. While there is still so much that can be done to ensure long term success, events like this Trans-Tasman are an important step to highlight and secure long term sustainability of women’s ice hockey in Australia.”

Backing up with a second match the following day, the Ice Fernz were determined to give the Flyers everything they had to level the series.

But the Aussie’s weren’t going to go down easy. With goals from Tash Farrier (1 goal) and captain Steph Cochrane (2 goals) for the Flyers, as well as goals from the Fernz Caitlin Hollyer and Kellye Nelson, it was shot-stopper Makayla Peers that sealed the win for Australia, 3-2 to cement the series win.

Women’s Trans-Tasman Series MvP awarded to Christina Julien (Australia) for her commanding performance in Game 1.

Looking to their next major competition, the Aussie Flyers team members will be back on the ice when they line up for the Australian Women’s Ice Hockey League (AWIHL) commencing 2 November 2024, before heading to the World Championships in Dunedin, New Zealand, 14-20 April 2025.

For more information on ice hockey in Australia, visit www.iha.org.au