The Ascot Park Hotel Southern Steel has boosted its defensive lineup with Australian defender Jess Milne.

A key performer for the Gold Coast Titans, Milne’s prowess earned a promotion into the Queensland Firebirds where she staged her Suncorp Super Netball debut in May.

The opportunity to add international experience to her sporting resume saw Milne eager to venture across the Tasman to link with Steel.

“I’m really excited about the opportunity to learn and adapt to Steel’s style of play and strategy,” she said.

“This season I really want to take every opportunity to continue developing my game by learning and adapting to different structures across all defensive positions.

I want to take my game to the next level and be a consistent, positive contributor on and off the court.

‘I’m also looking forward to being part of such a netball-loving community, getting to know everyone and connecting with fans and the wider Steel family.”

The English-born 1.86m tall talent has an array of strengths to add into the Steel environment.

“On the court; my ability to read the play and hunt ball to create opportunities for my team. Off the court; a friendly face, positive energy and Aussie snacks.

Coming from the Gold Coast I’m sure I'll bring with me lots of layers for the chilly weather too.”

Steel head coach Wendy Frew was eager to see what Milne could inject into Steel’s arsenal.

“Jess is a great defender and I can see her working really well in that circle with Carys and Khanye. She’s got a lot of height behind her and is really good in that one-on-one scenario and gets lots of nice intercepts attacking ball forward.

She’s going to definitely strengthen our defence area,” she said.

“I’m really happy with how the team has come together. To keep seven of last year’s squad, along with Ashleigh Poi who was also in our environment, is fantastic and I’m excited to work with them again.

Then we add Jess into the mix and I really can’t wait to see what we can collectively achieve.”