Former National Rugby League (NRL) player Robbie Kearns has announced his new relationship with artist Gabrielle May. Kearns, a former captain for the Melbourne Storm, shared photos and an emotional message on Instagram over the weekend introducing May.
"Not sure how, and don't know why but I've been lucky enough to meet the world's most amazing human… and I get to hang out with her… and to top it all off she's really really pretty… oh yeh and she makes me so so happy…," Kearns wrote on social media. He added, "Thanks for making my cup full to the brim when it was empty.. Thanks for being you."
Kearns used hashtags including '#yesimpunchin', '#yesimbattin', '#playonisay', and '#awinforthebattlers' in his announcement.
The announcement drew supportive comments from friends and followers, with many expressing delight in seeing the former player happy. Former Cronulla Sharks player Jason Stevens commented, "Happy for you brother. You're a good man and I'm so glad you have met a great person." Media personality Braith Anasta also responded, "Yes Kearndog."
Gabrielle May is an established visual artist known for her abstract paintings, figure portraits, and typographic pieces. Originally from Western Australia, she moved to Melbourne before settling in Torquay, where she works full-time from her studio. Prior to her art career, May worked as a makeup artist, in digital marketing, and founded the e-commerce business Wrapt About.
Kearns had a notable career in the NRL, debuting with Cronulla in 1992. He played for the Western Reds before becoming a founding player for the Melbourne Storm, captaining the club from 2000 to 2002 and again in 2005. He represented New South Wales in State of Origin and Australia in 23 Tests, including the 2000 World Cup. Kearns retired at the end of the 2005 season after playing 282 first-grade matches over a 13-year career.