Brisbane Broncos Archives - Paddington Today

Former Paddington Home of Broncos Legend Up For Auction on Valentine’s Day

A piece of Brisbane rugby league history is set to change hands next month, with the former Paddington home of Broncos legend Darren Lockyer going under the hammer on Valentine’s Day.

The property at 23 Agars Street, which Lockyer and his wife Loren called home for nine years, will be auctioned on 14 February at 6pm. The couple purchased the land in 2012 for $1.125 million and built their family residence in 2015, shortly after the NRL great retired from professional football.

The award-winning home last sold in 2024 for $6.4 million to a local family, who have since undertaken extensive renovations including a new kitchen, updated electrical systems, a fresh coat of paint, roof restoration and a new driveway.

According to listing agent Simon Caulfield from Place Kangaroo Point, the current owners—a couple with one child—have decided to sell because they believe the spacious property would better suit a larger family.

“This is Darren Lockyer’s former family home, so there’s an immediate emotional connection for a lot of people,” Mr Caulfield said. “But beyond the name, buyers are responding to what the home delivers. A finished, award-winning house on a large, flat block in Paddington is something we just don’t see very often.”

The single-level home sits on a rare 1,628-square-metre block—an unusually generous size for a property so close to the CBD. It features five bedrooms and two bathrooms, with architects Paul Owen and Michael Lineburg designing the residence as a series of interconnected spaces linked by long hallways and undercrofts.

The architectural design earned recognition at both state and regional levels, receiving the Robin Dods Award for Residential Architecture (Houses – New) in 2015. The Robin Dods Award is the Queensland chapter’s premier honour for new residential architecture, awarded by the Australian Institute of Architects.

The property includes a swimming pool, landscaped gardens, solar power with battery storage, and remote-controlled entry gates leading to a private carport. Two separate backyard spaces connect to the central living areas, creating what the architects designed with what Lockyer described in a 2018 interview as a “contemporary, Tuscan feel”.

At the time, Lockyer told media outlets the location was ideal for his family. “The location is great for our kids,” he said. “It’s also close to cafes, restaurants and parks.”

Co-listing agent Courtney Caulfield said interest has been strong from high-end buyers seeking a move-in-ready property that doesn’t require renovation work. “Everything is on one level, the outdoor spaces feel safe and connected, and it’s been such a comfortable place to raise [the current vendors’] child,” she said.

The property is within walking distance of Paddington’s cafes, restaurants and boutiques, near Gregory Park’s sporting facilities, and close to several prestigious schools including Brisbane Grammar School, Brisbane Girls Grammar School and St Joseph’s College.

Lockyer, who played his entire 17-year professional career with the Brisbane Broncos and now serves on the club’s board, has since moved on to a New Farm property with his family. According to property records cited by View.com.au, the Lockyers purchased a renovated six-bedroom Queenslander in New Farm for $5.05 million in late 2024.

Published 24-January-2026

Former Broncos Star and Wife Launch Luxury Property Venture in Paddington

Photo Credit: Instagram / @kaylaboyd_

A former Brisbane Broncos player and his wife have revealed the first images of their inaugural Paddington venture through their newly established boutique property development company.

Kayla Boyd shared renderings of “Pavélle”, a Paddington heritage home transformation, via Instagram on New Year’s Eve. The project marks the first development under Deseño Group, the couple’s business venture with husband Darius Boyd, which describes its offering as “curated luxury from concept to completion”.

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A post shared by KAYLA. (@kaylaboyd_)

The Boyds have previously gained attention for their residential property renovations across Brisbane’s inner suburbs. Their most recent sale, a property called “Mala” in Grange, achieved $4.5 million in July 2024 and became the most viewed listing nationally on realestate.com.au, according to the source article.

The Paddington project involves relocating and raising the existing pre-war structure while constructing new lower levels. Plans indicate the development will incorporate a sauna, carport, and mud room, along with a swimming pool.

Working within heritage conservation requirements, the development aims to preserve the home’s street-facing character whilst modernising the interior spaces. The couple has previously completed two other pre-war renovations: House of Hendra and Vogue Haus, the latter also located in Paddington and subsequently used for photography purposes.

Kayla Boyd handles interior design responsibilities, collaborating with Rogue Architects, Arqo Building, and Westera Partners on the project. According to the source material, construction is scheduled to commence this month.

The development represents the formalisation of the Boyds’ property activities under the Deseño Group brand, transitioning from individual renovation projects to an established development firm operating in Brisbane’s prestige property market.

Published 1-January-2026

Broncos Reveal Bold New Look as Brisbane Charges Into a New Era

Photo Credit: Brisbane Broncos

The Brisbane Broncos have revealed a sweeping rebrand set to roll out in 2026, marking the club’s most significant image overhaul in 25 years. Fresh off their drought-breaking 2025 premiership, the club says the timing could not be better to redefine how Brisbane presents itself to the rugby league world. The full redesign includes a new logo and a striking tribute jersey that nods to one of the club’s most influential figures.

For locals across Paddington, Red Hill and the inner west, the change feels particularly close to home. The Broncos’ training base sits in our neighbourhood, and the announcement has already sparked plenty of chat in cafés along Given Terrace. Love it or question it, the redesign marks a moment in the city’s sporting story.

A Forward-Facing Bronco for a Forward-Moving City

The centrepiece of the refresh is a completely new logo, only the third to appear in the club’s nearly four-decade history. This version features a front-facing Bronco locked into a more assertive stance, framed by a shield inspired by the original 1988 crest. A flowing stripe cutting through the horse pays tribute to the Brisbane River, grounding the design in local identity.

For the first time, the word “Broncos” has been removed from the crest entirely. Instead, “Brisbane” stands boldly at the top, reflecting the club’s intent to represent the city on a global stage. The club says the change mirrors Brisbane’s growth and the opportunities ahead of the 2032 Olympics, noting that the redesign was shaped over 18 months of consultation with players, staff, member groups and branding specialists.

Cyril Connell Honoured With New Away Strip

While the classic maroon-and-gold home kit remains untouched, the away jersey has undergone a major shift.

The 2026 strip will feature a deep midnight blue in honour of Cyril Connell, the revered Broncos scout who helped identify and nurture many of the club’s great players.

Cyril Connell tribute jersey. Photo Credit: Brisbane Broncos

Connell, who passed away in 2009, is remembered as a quiet influencer whose belief in emerging talent shaped the club’s DNA. The last tribute jersey in his honour appeared in 2010, worn by a young Ben Hunt.

With the return of the design next season, current players say they feel proud to carry on Connell’s legacy and the values he embedded both on and off the field.

A Bigger Show for the Fans

Alongside its visual refresh, the club is planning an upgraded game-day experience at Suncorp Stadium. With strong home-crowd averages this season, the Broncos say supporters deserve a show that matches the energy and atmosphere seen in major American and European sports events.

Game days will lean further into entertainment, production and spectacle, building on the electric scenes at this year’s preliminary final. The club has also begun updating billboards across Queensland and will roll out Broncos colours on the iconic BRISBANE letters at South Bank.

Community Reaction: Pride, Curiosity and a Bit of Debate

In Paddington, reactions to the rebrand have been passionate but varied. Some longtime fans say the forward-facing Bronco captures the confidence of a modern club, while others admit they need time to adjust after decades of familiarity. Many locals agree, however, that the Cyril Connell tribute is a respectful and well-deserved nod to the club’s roots.

What is clear is that the rebrand has sparked renewed conversation about identity, tradition and the shared pride that comes with supporting Brisbane’s flagship rugby league team. For a suburb deeply tied to the Broncos’ story, the shift feels like another chapter in an ongoing bond.

Charging On Toward 2026

For the club, the redesign signals both a tribute to the past and a stride into the future. With a premiership behind them and an Olympic-era Brisbane emerging ahead, the Broncos have made their intentions clear: the next era starts now, and they are ready to charge on.

Published 26-Nov-2025

Brisbane Broncos Facility Hit By Fire As Stolen Car Burns Near Training Base

A stolen car caught fire in the car park beside the Brisbane Broncos’ Clive Berghofer Centre in Red Hill, prompting a rapid response from emergency crews.

Emergency Response Near Major Facility

The incident involved a vehicle alleged to have been stolen that was later found burning close to the club’s 27 million dollar headquarters. Police and fire crews arrived to put out the flames, and officers began investigating the circumstances surrounding the fire.

Emergency services reached the scene soon after the blaze was reported. Police took control of the scene once the fire was out and began checking early evidence as part of their investigation. No injuries were reported during the incident.

Staff Vehicle Damaged In Heat

The burning vehicle caused heat damage to a staff member’s car parked nearby. Media reports confirmed that the staff vehicle was affected as a result of the blaze.

The training buildings and fields were not harmed. The club is expected to review parking and access points around the facility as a routine security measure.

Training Centre Not Affected

Reports stated that the main facility did not suffer structural damage. The club noted no impact to the centre or training grounds. Regular team activities are expected to continue without interruption.

Community And Safety Considerations

The fire drew interest within the local area due to the training centre’s position in a busy part of Red Hill. The incident prompted attention to general safety around the precinct.

Police are investigating the matter and will examine available surveillance and witness reports to gather more information about the stolen car and how it was brought to the site.

Published 21-November-2025

Broncos Legends Meet Young Cancer Battler in Red Hill

Photo Credit: GoFundMe

Nine-year-old Myah McGuigan, who has been battling a rare form of ovarian cancer, met Brisbane Broncos legends Sam Thaiday and Corey Oates at the team’s training centre in Red Hill, where the visit marked the end of her treatment and celebrated her strength through illness.

Visit at Red Hill

The visit took place as the Broncos prepared for their preliminary final against Penrith, providing both players and staff with a morale boost ahead of the game. Myah was welcomed to the training centre by Thaiday and Oates, who spent time with her during a team walk-around and training session. Her father, David McGuigan, described the day as symbolic of her recovery and an opportunity to celebrate how far she had come.

Thaiday and Oates acknowledged Myah’s courage, noting how her story inspired those around her. The event served as a positive moment for both the family and the team, with the players drawing strength from her determination.

Broncos legends Red Hill — Photo Credit: GoFundMe

From Diagnosis to Recovery

Earlier in 2025, Myah was diagnosed with an ovarian germ cell tumour after her parents noticed she had lost her appetite and was feeling unwell. Tests revealed a tumour measuring about 15 centimetres by 8 centimetres, prompting immediate chemotherapy at the Queensland Children’s Hospital.

Within a week of diagnosis, she began treatment, which successfully reduced the tumour’s size and allowed doctors to remove it surgically along with one ovary. Her family has since discussed fertility options with specialists. As of 30 July 2025, Myah was preparing for her final round of chemotherapy, and by late September, the Red Hill visit signified the conclusion of her treatment.

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Fundraising for Sick Kids

During her hospital stay, Myah drew inspiration from the “prize trolley” — a cart filled with donated toys given to children after difficult treatments. Wanting to help others, she launched a lemonade stall fundraiser and a GoFundMe campaign on 30 July 2025 to stock the hospital’s trolley with toys, books and crafts.

Family friends Sophie and Josh Burnett helped organise the fundraiser, with proceeds directed towards children undergoing chemotherapy at Queensland Children’s Hospital. Any additional items are donated to the Starlight Children’s Foundation.

Community Support

The Brisbane community rallied around Myah’s cause, with support flowing in from neighbours, friends and schoolmates. The campaign has raised $28,013 AUD from 189 donations, surpassing its original $20,000 goal.

Myah continues to raise awareness and funds for young patients while transitioning into her recovery phase. The meeting in Red Hill not only celebrated the end of her treatment but also highlighted her mission to bring comfort to others facing similar challenges.

Published 1-Oct-2025

Broncos Get the W Against the Cowboys but Defense Needs Polishing

“We’ve got a little bit to work on”, says Madge “We had a little bit of sickness go through the team this week.” At half time, he said: “We spoke about the things I know we are capable of.”

Paddy Carrigan said: “We obviously started fast….a little bit disappointed defensively…….what’s going to be required to win finals games in the next few weeks is a bit more than that”.

“Reecey — over the last couple of months, his maturity around the game has changed” said Madge.

Two tries (Gehamat Shibasaki and Kotoni Staggs) in the first ten minutes as well as a Cowboys sin binning (Braidon Burns) had the Broncos off to a flyer, but conceding the next three tries to the Cowboys suggests the concentration lapsed. In the space of 2 minutes however, the Broncos delivered two more tries through Josiah Karapani and Reece Walsh just before half-time, giving the Broncos some momentum back into the half-time break.

Three more tries in the second half through Shibasaki’s second, Billy Walters and Payne Haas was enough despite conceding two more Cowboys tries in the second half.

Karapani’s 196 run metres (including 2 line breaks) with Shibasaki’s three line breaks and a sprinkling of Reece Walsh magic (5 line break assists and two try assists as well as his own 5-pointer) were major contributors to a crucial win, after the Warriors tripped up on Friday night, leaving the door wide open for a Broncos Top 4 finish.

Kotoni Staggs with 69 post contact metres proved a handful, but defensively Billy Walters and Ben Hunt didn’t have their best game, missing 11 tackles between them as well as five ineffective tackles.

Now the big finale against the Storm at Suncorp. Will the Storm be determined to win, or will their playoff preparations take priority, resting key players?

It’s a must-win for the Broncos, the Warriors will be all out to beat the Sea Eagles after their disaster against the Eels, if both the Broncos and the Warriors lose then Madge’s boys will be in the 4, but lose momentum when it counts.

A massive week of preparation before taking on the 2nd placed Storm.

Published 31-August-2025

Broncos Eye Crucial Win Against Cowboys as Finals Hopes Hinge on Round 26 Clash

Published 29-August-2025

A dominant “w” last week in Newcastle, sets the Broncos up for a huge Round 26 clash with the Cowboys tomorrow night at the Queensland Country Bank Stadium.

The Cowboys can only inflict damage on their Queensland rivals, as they lie 13th.

Adam Reynolds is named in the extended squad despite having re-injured his hamstring on Thursday at training, having not played since Round 23 against the Storm.

Reynolds feels he will be ready for the playoffs, though getting on the field against the Cowboys looks less likely. Madge Maguire would be very unlikely to risk Reynolds in a game the Broncos should win without him.

Brendan Piakura comes back into the interchange and Jock Madden joins the reserves along with Reynolds and Delouise Hoeter.

If the Broncos can win their last two games, including the regular season finale at home to the 2nd placed, Storm, they could still make the top 4. The Warriors currently in 4th would need to slip up tonight at home against the Eels or away to the Sea Eagles next Friday; the Broncos play the Storm next Thursday; and the Warriors play the Sea Eagles next Friday; so it may go down to the wire if the Broncos can win in Townsville.

Across the park, the Cowboys’ starting pack remains sturdy and unchanged—an indication of their coach Todd Payten’s confidence in a settled group.

The refereeing team for Saturday includes Ashley Klein at the whistle, with Drew Oultram and Chris Sutton on the touchlines, and Chris Butler as the senior review official.

Key Match Facts

The Broncos bring a five-game winning streak against the Cowboys into this clash.
Cowboys second-rower Jeremiah Nanai has been a thorn in Brisbane’s side, scoring six tries in his last six outings against them.
The in-form Kotoni Staggs continues to pose a serious threat—he’s crossed for five tries across his last four matches.
For North Queensland, this game marks a personal milestone for lock Reuben Cotter, as he prepares to notch up his 100th NRL appearance.

Stats & Matchups to Watch

Head-to-head dominance: Brisbane has won each of the last five encounters against North Queensland, including a 26–16 victory in Round 3 this season at Suncorp Stadium. The Broncos have had the edge in recent Queensland derbies, with strong second-half efforts proving decisive.
Strike players: Kotoni Staggs (Broncos) is in top attacking form, crossing for five tries in his last four matches. His strength and acceleration on the right edge continue to trouble defensive lines. Jeremiah Nanai (Cowboys) has a proven ability to find the line against Brisbane, having scored six tries in his last six games against the Broncos. His timing off short balls and aerial threat make him a key danger man.
Middle-third battle: The engine room will be vital, with Payne Haas averaging 67.5 post-contact metres per game and ranking among the NRL’s leaders in dominant carries. Teammate Patrick Carrigan has amassed over 3,300 running metres this season, making him one of the most consistent metre-eaters in the comp. They’ll face a determined Cowboys pack led by Jason Taumalolo and Reuben Cotter, whose 100th game brings added motivation.
Halves and control: With Adam Reynolds still named in the reserves as he recovers from a hamstring injury, the playmaking duties may again fall to Ezra Mam and Billy Walters. Their ability to guide the team around the park, especially under pressure, could be tested in a hostile Townsville environment.
Milestone moment: Reuben Cotter will notch up his 100th NRL game in front of a home crowd—a major achievement for the hard-working lock and a potential emotional lift for the Cowboys in their final home game of the season.

Expect a gritty, physical battle where momentum could swing early depending on composure and execution. If Brisbane’s seasoned campaigners impose pressure early, they’ll likely navigate Reynolds’ absence. But if Nanai and the Cowboys can unsettle the Broncos pack, it might get tight before halftime.

Kick-off is at 7:35pm AEST on Saturday, 30 August. The match will be broadcast live on Fox League and Kayo Sports.

Red Hill Injuries and Ambitions – Where can the Broncos Aim to Finish the Regular Season?

Photo Credit: NRL

THE STORM INJURY DISASTER – The loss on Thursday in Melbourne to the Storm came with some disastrous injuries for an end of season push to the playoffs.

Player	Injury Duration

Adam Reynolds

4 weeks

Selwyn Cobbo

6 weeks

Ezra Mam

6 weeks

The loss three weeks ago to the Eels is also still a major scar on their post-season opportunity.

What are the Broncos realistic ambitions this season?

The Broncos currently sit 6th. The Bulldogs in 3rd have eight more points than the Broncos but the Panthers in 4th have only three more points than the Broncos. The Warriors in 5th having two more than the Broncos.

The Sharks in 7th (played one game more than other teams in the hunt) have 28 points, like the Broncos. The Dolphins have 26 points in 8th, as do the Roosters in 9th.

BRONCOS FIXTURE LIST (currently 6th on 28 points)

Opponent	Venue	Date

Dolphins

Home

Aug 16

Knights

Away

Aug 24

Cowboys

Away

Aug 30

Storm

Home

Sept 4

PANTHERS FIXTURE LIST (currently 4th on 31 points)

Opponent	Venue	Date

Storm

Home

Aug 14

Raiders

Home

Aug 22

Bulldogs

Away

Aug 28

Dragons

Away

Sept 6

WARRIORS FIXTURE LIST (currently 5th on 30 points)

Opponent	Venue	Date

Dragons

Home

Aug 15

Titans

Away

Aug 23

Eels

Home

Aug 29

Sea Eagles

Away

Sept 5

So the Panthers have as tough a run-in as you can get. They host the Storm (currently 2nd), then the Raiders (currently top), then visit the Bulldogs (currently 3rd), and then end the regular season with a visit to the Dragons.

So, despite their nine-match winning streak, they will be tested, and maybe they will win between two and four of those games.

The Warriors have a much easier run-in, and maybe only the Sea Eagles will be a challenge.

The two-point advantage that the Kiwis carry could be crucial, but despite the roller-coaster season, the Broncos can see a chink of light in the top four. Can they start the run-in with a win at Suncorp on Saturday?

Top 4 offers two bites at the cherry

Don’t forget the Top 4 each get two bites at the cherry. Fourth place will play 1st in the first qualifying final, while 2nd play 3rd in the other. Meanwhile, places 5th to 8th only get to play off in elimination finals; meaning the loser of
each of 5th vs 8th and 6th vs 7th, is eliminated.

The two top 4 qualifying final losers then play the winners of the two elimination finals, feeding into the Preliminary Finals and the Grand Final!

Can the Broncos start the run-in with a win at Suncorp on Saturday?

Published 12-Aug-2025

Red Hill Resilience: Broncos Rally from 18 Down in Round 18 Thriller

Photo Credit: Screencap from Broncos highlights video

A never-say-die Broncos, missing several stars but led by Ezra Mam and Billy Walters, and inspired by a huge team effort in the last 20 minutes, turned an 18–0 nightmare into a 22–18 dream.

How the turnaround happened

For the first hour the Bulldogs owned the contest. Early tries to Marcelo Montoya and Matt Burton, followed by a powerhouse charge from Viliame Kikau, had Cameron Ciraldo’s men cruising at 18-0. The Broncos looked flat without Origin stars Payne Haas, Patrick Carrigan and Reece Walsh, and a spilled bomb from Cobbo summed up a clunky opening.

Everything changed in the 63rd minute when halfback Adam Reynolds varied his kicking angles and Ezra Mam began attacking Canterbury’s outside shoulders. Rookie winger Josiah Karapani finished a sweeping left-edge raid to light the fuse, and five minutes later Delouise Hoeter slid over on the opposite flank. Reynolds missed the kick (his only miss of the night) leaving the Broncos two scores away, and when Billy Walters ducked out of dummy-half to score beside the posts the scores were locked with ten to play.

The decider came soon after: Kotoni Staggs punched through weary middle defenders, Mam straightened the line and Piakura – cleared of a head-knock moments earlier – thundered over. Reynolds slotted the extras and, despite a last-gasp Burton bomb, Brisbane’s line held firm.

Round 18 heroes in maroon and gold

Photo Credit: Screencap from Broncos highlight video

Ezra Mam – three try assists and two line-break involvements in that whirlwind comeback.
Adam Reynolds – 3/4 conversions, 386 kicking metres and the composure that sparked the revival.
Selwyn Cobbo – recovered from an early error to notch 208 running metres and two tackle-breaks at fullback.
Brendan Piakura – match-winning try, 33 tackles and relentless line speed on the right edge.

Team Stats

Team Stat (2nd half)	Broncos	Bulldogs
Possession	58 %	42 %
Line Breaks	6	2
Missed Tackles	24	31
Errors	5	9

What the result means

The triumph lifts Brisbane to an 11–6 record and keeps them within arm’s reach of the top four as the Origin period draws to a close. Most importantly for Maguire, the manner of victory underlines a newfound resilience that was missing during last season’s slide. “Belief never wavered,” he said post-match, crediting a patched-up forward pack led by Xavier Willison and Tyson Smoothy.

For the Bulldogs, the loss stings. Ciraldo’s side had won four of their past five and sat on the edge of the top two; leaking 22 unanswered points in 17 minutes will raise familiar questions about late-game management.

Next in the diary

The Broncos return to Suncorp Stadium on Friday night to face old rivals Melbourne, with Haas, Carrigan and Walsh all expected back in maroon and gold. The Bulldogs travel to Newcastle on Sunday searching for an 80-minute response against the Knights.

Published 5-July-2025

Brisbane Broncos Submits New Logo Design for Major Rebrand

Photo Credit: The Rugby League Report

The Brisbane Broncos have taken the first major step in a bold rebrand by submitting a fresh new logo design, the Red Hill club’s first in 25 years. The new look, still under review by IP Australia, marks a big shift for one of Queensland’s most recognisable sporting clubs.

A Modern Image From A Traditional Home

The Broncos’ Red Hill base remains central to the club’s identity as it moves to modernise its image. A new logo, submitted in black and white for trademark approval, shows a simplified horse head within a shield.

Photo Credit: Fox League/Facebook

While colour isn’t confirmed, it’s expected to feature the traditional maroon, gold and white. The club hasn’t said if it will appear on next season’s jerseys, with the trademark still under review. The shift reflects a wider trend in sport toward clean, modern visuals that appeal to younger fans.

Inspired By Local Identity

A stripe through the horse’s head has caught fans’ attention, with some saying it mirrors the shape of the Brisbane River. The club hasn’t confirmed it, but the idea suggests a strong local link in the design. As a team founded in 1988, the Broncos have room to refresh their image without clashing with deep-rooted tradition.

Photo Credit: BroncosHQ/Facebook

Their Red Hill home, the Clive Berghofer Centre, is where day-to-day operations and community work are run. Any branding shift is likely to grow from this base, keeping the club’s identity tied to its Brisbane roots.

Recent Moves Show Broader Refresh

Earlier this season, the Broncos released a black jersey for the NRL’s Mental Health Round. Created in partnership with the Black Dog Institute, the jersey gained strong support from fans. It marked a creative and social step forward for the club and may have paved the way for this broader rebrand.

Photo Credit: rebel sport/Facebook

While that jersey was temporary, the new logo, once approved, could stay with the club for decades. Together, these updates suggest the Broncos are serious about presenting a fresh face to both local fans and a wider audience.

Debate Over Live Mascot Continues

The rebrand has sparked fresh calls to retire the Broncos’ live horse mascot, Buck. Animal group PETA urged the club to stop using the horse and proposed renaming the team the Brisbane Boomerangs to honour Indigenous culture.

The Broncos have rejected the idea, saying Buck is well cared for and still loved by fans. There are no plans to remove the mascot or change the club’s name. For now, attention remains on the new logo and how it will shape the club’s next chapter.

Published 13-June-2025

PETA Urges Broncos at Red Hill to Retire Live Mascot Buck

Photo Credit: Brisbane Broncos

An animal rights organisation has launched a campaign directed at the Brisbane Broncos, urging the team to retire Buck their live horse mascot, and asking the team to reconsider the team name due to concerns about animal welfare and what some perceive to be the glorification of rodeo practices.

PETA’s Concerns and Proposed Changes

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) Asia-Pacific Campaign Manager, Abigail Forsyth, stated that using live animals at sporting events is inappropriate, describing the experience for a horse like Buck in a stadium filled with bright lights, loud noises, and cheering fans as terrifying and distressing.

The organisation has directly appealed to the Broncos, suggesting that while retiring Buck is their primary request, the team should also consider the implications of their name and imagery, arguing that it promotes rodeos, an industry they believe is built on animal fear and pain.

Furthermore, PETA has proposed that the Brisbane Broncos adopt a new name that does not involve animal cruelty, suggesting “Brisbane Boomerangs” as a potential alternative. This name would meaningfully acknowledge the club’s history of fostering Indigenous talent and its commitment to equality.

PETA representatives, including Vice-President Mimi Bekhechi, have echoed this sentiment, suggesting that other sporting teams have already embraced the Boomerangs moniker and would present a more progressive image for the NRL club. They even offered a new logo design to support this potential rebranding.

Broncos’ Response and Community Sentiments

The Brisbane Broncos have publicly responded to PETA’s campaign, firmly stating they have no plans to retire Buck. The club emphasised that Buck is an iconic, much-loved, and well-cared-for member of the Broncos family, a tradition that has existed for a significant period.

They assured the community that their game-day staff consistently work with Buck’s rider and the stadium management to ensure the highest level of safety for both the horse and the fans attending matches at Suncorp Stadium.

The PETA suggestion has also drawn a reaction from within the Broncos community. Club legend Chris Johns dismissed the idea as “the most ridiculous suggestion of all time.” Current Broncos forward Payne Haas also supported Buck, reassuring fans that the mascot is “safe” and “with us.”

This indicates a strong connection and affection for Buck within the team and its supporter base. Broncos CEO Dave Donaghy confirmed that while he had not received direct correspondence from PETA, the club’s position on Buck’s future remains unchanged.

Rodeo Imagery and Animal Welfare Arguments

A key aspect of PETA’s campaign is its criticism of the Broncos’ “bucking bronco” imagery, which it argues glorifies rodeos. It describes rodeos as one of Queensland’s cruellest and most backward undertakings, detailing the use of spurs, electric prods, and ropes to provoke a fight-or-flight response in animals for entertainment.

PETA also highlighted the risks to young calves in roping events, where they can suffer serious injury or death. They contend that these animals are unwilling participants in such spectacles.

In contrast, PETA suggests that a human mascot in a costume could fulfil the role without any ethical concerns. They pointed out that a person inside a costume can consent to performing in front of crowds and does not require the extensive care and consideration needed for a live animal. PETA believes that removing the live Buck from the field would be the best ethical decision the Broncos could make.

Despite PETA’s strong stance, the Brisbane Broncos appear resolute in keeping their current mascot and team name. Buck the horse is expected to continue his role at future games.

The debate, however, raises important questions within the community about the ethics of using live animals for entertainment and the broader implications of sports team branding.

Published Date 16-May-2025