The Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs are deeply saddened by the passing of former Jersey Flegg player Mesake ‘Mes’ Ravonu.
Born in Buretu, Tailevu, Fiji, to parents Maria and Inoke, Mesake was the youngest of five children.
He showed exceptional athletic promise from an early age and went on to feature in the Fijian National U18 Schoolboys and U20 Rugby Union squads.
Mesake became a Bulldog ahead of the 2022 season when he joined the Jersey Flegg team. His first season was cut short by two serious injuries, but his resilience and determination were rewarded the following year when he was selected in the Fiji Bati squad for the Pacific Championships — a proud moment for his family.
In 2024, 'Mes' moved into the Bulldogs’ NSW Cup squad. However, he was forced into premature medical retirement after it was discovered he had been living with IgA Nephropathy – an autoimmune kidney disease.
Mesake returned home to Fiji in 2024 after his diagnosis. He spent his final days surrounded by family in Malawai, Nadi, before passing on Monday.
The Bulldogs family will forever remember Mesake’s determination, infectious smile and the joy he brought to everyone around him.
The Bulldogs wish to pay their respects to Mesake. Our thoughts are with his family and friends during this difficult time.
Mesake ‘Mes’ Dugutawa Ravonu
16/05/2003 - 19/01/2026
