Wallabies

The nickname "Wallabies" is in reference to the wallaby—a marsupial that is widely distributed throughout Australia. The name has its origins during first United Kingdom and North America tour by the Australian team in 1908. New Zealand had just completed a tour, and the English media dubbed their team the "All Blacks" in reference to their black attire. It was suggested by the media that Australia should too have a nickname. Rabbits was apparently one of the names suggested, though this was turned down as they did not want the national team to represent an imported pest. They opted for the native Wallaby instead. At first it was only touring parties that were nicknamed the Wallabies; when Australia played domestically, they were referred to as internationals.