Mungubudkija (Mungu) Toby, from Mornington Island, has been named School Captain of Heatley Secondary College for 2025 making him the first NRL Cowboys House student to achieve the honour since the unique, culturally-safe boarding house opened in 2019. Mungu has a quiet, humble exterior but underneath possesses a fierce determination which has seen him emerge as a leader amongst his peers.
The 17-year-old said he was a little surprised but excited to take on the role and hoped his family and community were proud. “I originally applied to be vice-captain, so I was very surprised when I was named School Captain,” he said. “Being a leader of a high school is a big responsibility and I’m sure I’ll have plenty of extra duties to take on next year, but hopefully I’ll grow into it across the year. “Since coming to NRL Cowboys House I’ve definitely become more social than I used to be, more talkative and confident, so I’m looking forward to the next challenge.”