Rugby star George North has flown back to Australia just in time for the  2025 British & Irish Lions Tour, starting in Perth on 28 June. The sportsman landed earlier this week, ready to drum up enthusiasm among the locals before the tournament begins.

Kicking off his Australian escapade, North met with Wallabies icon Tim Horan in Brisbane. They embarked on a picturesque exploration of Queensland’s capital by bike and kayak, capped off with friendly banter over beers at Felons Brewery. He even struck a Warrior Two yoga pose, beer in hand, during a quirky beer yoga session.

The rugby star then jetted to Perth for a beachside photo op at Leighton Beach, donning his beloved red and white kit and brandishing a surfboard.

Embracing the Aussie lifestyle, North took the opportunity for an exhilarating zipline adventure near Optus Stadium at the Matagarup Zip+Climb experience.

His Australian journey continued with a toast at Faber Vineyard in the renowned Swan Valley wine region, before greeting fans at Optus Stadium, the venue for the tour’s opening game on Friday.

“I think the 2025 Tour promises big moments, like everyone at home I’ll be backing the Lions to go all the way,” declared the rugby champion.

“With the Tour bringing so many Lions fans down to Australia, it felt like the perfect time to experience the country in a different way – not as a player, but as a traveller,” he said.

He’s calling on other Brits to venture down under, emphasising the importance of discovering more than just Australia’s arenas:”[It’s] got so much to offer, if you’re only sticking to the stadiums, you’re missing some of the best bits.

“To any Brits thinking about making the trip, just go for it. Australia’s epic.”

Andrew Boxall, regional general manager for Tourism Australia in the UK & Northern Europe, chimed in with enthusiasm: “We’re delighted to be celebrating the British & Irish Lions Tour Down Under this month, and what an incredible way to do so with Lions legend George North.

“It’s been a pleasure to show George the sights of Brisbane and Perth. We’re encouraging all Lions fans heading to Australia to enjoy all there is to do and see in Australia beyond the rugby pitch.”