We always love a wedding at Karma Kandara – especially when a Karma Ambassador and Australian rugby royalty is involved! Such was the case in May 2023 when Dane Haylett-Petty – who played 38 tests with the Wallabies at full back, scoring twelve tries over a four year stint – tied the knot with his fiancee Hannah in an intimate ceremony at our flagship Bali resort. Dane was kind enough to sit down with us to answer a few questions about his storied career…
You’re originally from South Africa – what brought you to Australia as a child?
My parents decided Australia was the best place to raise their kids, after a few scares in South Africa.
It turned out to be the best thing they ever did for us. Australia has given all of us so many amazing opportunities.
When did you first pick up a rugby ball?
Surprisingly, I first picked up a rugby ball when I got to Australia, as a 10 year old. My mother didn’t want me to play when I was too young so I played a lot of cricket in South Africa.
I fell in love with rugby from the very first time, playing for the next 23 years.
Which position do you prefer – wing or full back?
I always preferred fullback. I liked the freedom to move and find the ball as much as possible.
You played for Australia on 38 occasions. Which game was the most memorable?
My most memorable games were always playing against the Springboks. Growing up in South Africa, supporting their rugby and cricket sides, and dreaming of playing sport for South Africa as a child. It was always a proud moment hearing both anthems.
Who are you backing to win the rugby world cup?!
I think Ireland will win it with the way they are playing, but Australia is a dark horse with Eddie Jones in charge.
What has your rugby career taught you about life?
- People overestimate what they can achieve in a day or week, but underestimate what they can achieve in a decade. Set big goals.
- You get what you put in.
- You don’t rise to the level of your goals, you fall to the level of your systems.
You retired relatively young – what were your reasons?
I retired due to ongoing issues with concussion. I was hoping to play until the 2023 RWC but unfortunately I was encouraged to retire by specialists. I am now on the board of the Western Force so I am enjoying giving back to the game that gave me so much.
What are your current ambitions now that you’re a married man?
Hannah and I are excited for our honeymoon in Europe. We have been enjoying a lot of travel in the last 12 months. I am loving being a Dad to our little boy Hugo. We hope to expand our family in the near future.
In-between all that, we have multiple businesses we are building, so enjoying different challenges since retiring.
Q. Your top three experiences at Karma Kandara?
- Our wedding!! We had the most amazing week. It was really special to bring all the people we love, to a place that we love.
- The sunsets never get old.
- Days down at Karma Beach – sun, sea, dj, deckchair. bintang
Tell us a joke…?
What did the sea say to the land….
Nothing, it just waved (quickly googled Dad jokes)
