The rugby league community is grieving the loss of Fijian international and former Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs junior, Mesake ‘Mes’ Ravonu, who passed away at the young age of 22 after a prolonged battle with kidney disease.
Ravonu, a promising talent in the sport, had to retire from rugby league in 2024 following his diagnosis with chronic kidney disease, which sadly cut short a career that saw him proudly representing Fiji Bati in the 2023 Pacific Championships. He was a key member of the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs’ 2023 Jersey Flegg premiership squad and made his Test debut during the Pacific Championships that same year.
Despite a promising start, his journey faced challenges as he dealt with two serious injuries in his first year after joining the Bulldogs ahead of the 2022 season. Yet, his perseverance shone through when he was selected for the Fiji Bati squad in 2023, a moment of immense pride for his family.
In 2024, Ravonu made strides towards joining the Bulldogs’ NSW Cup squad, but unfortunately, his career was abruptly halted when he was diagnosed with IgA Nephropathy, an autoimmune kidney disease. After his diagnosis, he returned to Fiji, where he spent his final days surrounded by loved ones in Malawai, Nadi.
The Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs expressed their condolences in a statement, noting, “The Bulldogs family will forever remember Mesake’s determination, infectious smile, and the joy he brought to everyone around him.” The club extended their thoughts and prayers to his family and friends during this challenging time, emphasizing the impact he had on those who knew him.
Ravonu’s journey highlights not only his talent and dedication to rugby league but also the resilience of his spirit in the face of adversity. His legacy will continue to inspire those within the rugby league community and beyond.