NRL Archives - Paddington Today

Broncos Resume Training At Red Hill Base After Cyclone Alfred

The Brisbane Broncos have returned to training at their Red Hill headquarters following Cyclone Alfred, with the facility emerging largely unscathed despite the severe weather that impacted Brisbane over the weekend.

The club’s training centre didn’t sustain any significant damage from the cyclonic conditions, allowing players to report for Monday morning’s scheduled gymnasium session. The team was also able to conduct their planned field session Monday afternoon.

This quick return to normal operations at Red Hill comes as the Broncos prepare for Saturday night’s clash with the Canberra Raiders. The team’s travel arrangements remain unchanged, with the squad set to fly to Canberra on Friday as originally scheduled.

The relatively minor impact on the Red Hill facilities stands in contrast to the wider flooding and wind damage experienced across Brisbane and surrounding areas during the cyclone. Several Broncos players, including captain Adam Reynolds and fullback Reece Walsh, experienced power outages at their homes, with Walsh resorting to a generator at his rural property south of the city.

The team had returned to Brisbane in the early hours of Friday morning after their 50-14 victory over the Sydney Roosters, taking a charter flight to Toowoomba followed by a bus to Brisbane as the cyclone approached.

With their Red Hill base operational, the Broncos can maintain their preparation routine following their impressive performance against the Roosters, where props Pat Carrigan and Payne Haas earned five Dally M points each and Reynolds received two points for his game management alongside halves partner Ben Hunt.

Published 10-March-2025

Michael Maguire Influence Key to Cory Paix Resurgence

In a testament to persistence and determination, Brisbane Broncos’ forgotten man Cory Paix stands on the verge of a remarkable NRL return after being sidelined from the game for 526 days. The hooker, previously told he could leave the club under former coach Kevin Walters, has impressed new mentor Michael Maguire with his work ethic and resilience during pre-season training.

Read: Red Hill Awaits as Kotoni Staggs Nears Broncos Contract Extension

The Rise from the Outer

Despite a minor lower leg niggle keeping him from the trial against the Titans, Paix remains firmly in contention for the season opener against the Roosters at Allianz Stadium on 6 March. For the Toowoomba product, the opportunity to potentially play in front of his home crowd in the upcoming pre-season clash holds special significance.

Rather than accepting offers from two interested Sydney clubs, Paix chose the harder path. “The easy option would have been for me to leave, but being stubborn, I’ve dug my heels in and given it a red-hot crack,” Paix revealed. “It’s easy for people to whinge and kick stones, but it’s not in my nature to do that.”

New Coach, New Opportunities for Cory Paix

Maguire’s arrival has breathed fresh life into Paix’s career. The new coach’s emphasis on work ethic and leadership qualities aligns perfectly with Paix’s approach to the game. “It’s a clean start for everyone. Madge is demanding hard work and that suits my style,” Paix explained.

Drawing from his successful tenure at South Sydney, where he managed a talented hooking rotation including Issac Luke and Api Koroisau, Maguire sees value in maintaining strong competition for the number nine jersey. “If you have a quality group of hookers, it really helps your team,” Maguire stated.

Competition Intensifies

The battle for the dummy-half role has become increasingly intriguing with young gun Blake Mozer’s recent shoulder injury ruling him out of round one. While Billy Walters finished 2024 as the first-choice hooker, the arrival of marquee signing Ben Hunt adds another dimension to the selection puzzle.

Read: Rachel Burke’s Journey of Healing Through Art in Red Hill

As the 2025 season approaches, Paix’s story serves as a reminder that sometimes the greatest victories come not from taking the easy path, but from staying the course through adversity. “No-one is guaranteed a spot here,” Paix acknowledged. “I will keep chipping away.”

Published 14-February-2025

Broncos Join Forces with State Rivals in Historic Talent Pathway Initiative

In a groundbreaking move that signals a new era for rugby league development in Queensland, the Brisbane Broncos will join forces with their state rivals to create an innovative youth competition designed to bridge a crucial gap in player pathways.

Read: Broncos Champion Local Causes with Charity Partnerships and Strapping and Education Night

This historic collaboration between the Brisbane Broncos, The Dolphins, North Queensland Cowboys, and Gold Coast Titans will establish a nine-week development league for emerging talent, paving the way for the highly anticipated return of the National Youth Competition (NYC) in 2026.

For Broncos faithful, this initiative strengthens the club’s future talent pipeline by providing young prospects with high-quality matches against their peers from Queensland’s other rugby league clubs. It addresses a longstanding disadvantage compared to Sydney-based teams, which have benefited from more established youth competitions.

Building Tomorrow’s Broncos

Broncos CEO Dave Donaghy, leveraging his experience from the Melbourne Storm during the previous NYC era, has thrown his support behind the concept while emphasising the importance of a measured approach.

“It’s really important as a Queensland-based club that there needs to be parity with our competitors,” Donaghy said, highlighting the strategic significance of the development league for the Broncos’ future success.

The competition structure will see Brisbane’s young guns face each rival team twice in a round-robin format, with discussions underway about potentially staging these matches as curtain-raisers to NRL fixtures at Suncorp Stadium.

Pathway to the Big League

The timing of this Queensland development series is ideal for the Broncos, as it aligns with the NRL’s broader vision for youth development. The competition will commence after the conclusion of the Mal Meninga Cup in May, ensuring a seamless transition for promising players who may not yet be ready for Queensland Cup football.

For Brisbane’s loyal fanbase, this means more opportunities to witness the club’s future stars in action as they take crucial steps towards professional careers. The competition will serve as a vital stepping stone for young players aspiring to follow in the footsteps of current Broncos stars like Payne Haas, Pat Carrigan, and Ben Hunt, all of whom emerged from the original NYC system.

Looking Ahead to 2026

This Queensland development league is just the beginning of a broader transformation in rugby league’s youth pathways. With the NRL investigating the revival of a national under-21s competition in 2026, the Broncos are positioning themselves at the forefront of youth development in Queensland.

The new competition structure directly addresses the historical challenges that have placed Queensland clubs at a disadvantage compared to their New South Wales counterparts, who have long benefited from the established Jersey Flegg Cup. By taking proactive steps now, the Broncos will be well-prepared when the national competition returns.

Read: Musgrave Road in Red Hill to See Clearway Extensions Under New Plans

QRL boss Ben Ikin, who chairs the Pathways Steering Committee, has pledged full support for the initiative, ensuring the competition will have access to quality match officials and venues. This backing from Queensland’s governing body reinforces the credibility of what promises to be a major development in the Broncos’ youth pathway system.

Published 10-February-2025

Broncos Champion Local Causes with Charity Partnerships and Strapping and Education Night

The Brisbane Broncos are once again opening their doors to the community, offering a unique opportunity for sports trainers and strappers to hone their skills. On Tuesday, 18 February at 6:00 pm, the club will host its annual Strapping and Education Night at the iconic Red Hill training facility.

Read: Musgrave Road in Red Hill to See Clearway Extensions Under New Plans

2025 Strapping and Education Night

Proudly supported by Elastoplast and the Broncos’ Hostplus Cup affiliates—the Wynnum Manly Seagulls and Souths Logan Magpies—this free event promises to be an invaluable learning experience for participants of all skill levels.

Strapping is a critical skill in sports medicine, helping to prevent injuries and support athletes during recovery. Led by Matt Barradeen, a key member of the Broncos’ medical staff, the evening will focus on best practices in strapping and sports training. Whether attendees are seasoned professionals or newcomers to the field, the session aims to provide practical knowledge that can be applied across various levels of sport.

Broncos Launch Charity Partners Program with Record-Breaking Ambitions

The Brisbane Broncos are doubling down on their commitment to the community, announcing 12 inspiring new charity partners for 2025, which include organisations such as Ambulance Wish QLD, Cancer Council Queensland, Youngcare, and the Black Dog Institute, among others. These partnerships highlight the Broncos’ focus on addressing critical issues across health, social justice, and community welfare.

Broncos CEO Dave Donaghy highlighted the club’s commitment to Queensland communities, noting the legacy of Clive Berghofer, whose $130 million in donations inspires their ongoing efforts. Donaghy stated, “I find it really apt that we get to come into this building, the Clive Berghofer Centre each and every day, and be reminded of Clive’s unwavering support of Queensland community groups that has amassed more than $130M to date.”

The Broncos’ fundraising, including game-day 50-50 raffles, raised a record $900,000 in 2024, and the club aims to exceed $1 million in 2025. Head coach Michael Maguire also shared his enthusiasm for the initiative, emphasising the importance of community engagement. “What we do off the field and away from footy, is just as important, if not more than what we do on the paddock,” Maguire said.

Read: Shocking Road Rage Confrontation in Auchenflower Goes Viral

A Club Rooted in Community

From empowering sports trainers to supporting life-changing charities, the Broncos continue to demonstrate their commitment to the people of Queensland, proving once again that they’re more than just a football club. Join them in making a difference—on and off the field.

Published 07-February-2025

Brisbane Broncos Secure Future Star in Baxter Best

In a move that has sent ripples through the rugby league community, the Brisbane Broncos have secured the signature of 16-year-old prodigy Baxter Best, younger brother of Newcastle Knights and NSW State of Origin star Bradman Best.

The four-year deal is a major coup for the Broncos, reinforcing their commitment to developing top-tier young talent and ensuring their pathways remain among the strongest in the league.

Read: Le Coin Bistro: A Taste of France in Red Hill

Baxter has already emerged as one of Queensland’s most promising junior players, drawing comparisons to his older brother for his powerful playing style and natural flair. He has consistently stood out in junior competitions, proving his ability to match older and more experienced opponents. His performances in the Cyril Connell Cup and for Queensland’s under-15s schoolboys team have cemented his reputation as a future star in the making.

Bradman and Baxter Best : A Family Legacy in the Making

The Best family name carries significant weight in rugby league circles, thanks to Bradman’s meteoric rise as a powerhouse centre for the Knights and his impactful performances for NSW in the State of Origin arena. Now, Baxter is poised to carve out his own legacy, albeit on the opposite side of the Origin divide.

After the family’s move to Queensland, he became eligible for the Maroons, potentially setting up a future State of Origin rivalry with Bradman. While his older brother has already made his mark in the Blues jersey, Baxter’s journey is just beginning.

A Bright Future with the Broncos

Baxter’s decision to join the Broncos over other NRL suitors underscores the club’s strong reputation for nurturing young talent. This season, he will line up for the Souths Logan Magpies under-17s, where he will face stiffer competition and continue to hone his skills against top opposition. The signing reflects the Broncos’ long-term vision, as they continue to secure players with immense potential and invest in the future of the club.

For the Broncos, the signing is a testament to their long-term vision. By investing in players like Baxter, the club is not only securing its future but also ensuring that its development pathways remain among the strongest in the league.

Read: Broncos’ Cultural Overhaul: Ben Hunt Shares Insights on Maguire’s Tough Pre-Season

As Baxter embarks on his journey with the Broncos, the rugby league world will be watching closely. With his combination of speed, size, and maturity, he has all the tools to follow in his brother’s footsteps and make a name for himself at the highest level.

Published 30-January-2025

Broncos’ Cultural Overhaul: Ben Hunt Shares Insights on Maguire’s Tough Pre-Season

Ben Hunt has detailed the cultural overhaul driving Brisbane’s 2024 ambitions, declaring the Broncos’ pre-season under Michael Maguire the toughest he’s experienced since returning to the club.

Read: Madge Maguire Confirms Adam Reynolds as Brisbane Broncos Captain

Inside the Pre-Season Revolution

New coach Michael Maguire has wasted no time integrating Hunt into the club’s senior leadership group alongside Adam Reynolds, Pat Carrigan, Payne Haas, and Kotoni Staggs. While Reynolds continues to hold the captaincy, Hunt’s inclusion underscores the immense value placed on his experience and deep understanding of the Broncos’ culture.

Reflecting on his decision to return, Hunt shared, “It was always in my heart that if I ever had an opportunity to finish my career here or ever get back, it was something I really wanted to do.” Hunt’s choice to rejoin the Broncos over a lucrative offer from the Dolphins highlights his emotional connection to the club where his NRL journey began.

The Broncos that Hunt rejoins in 2025 bear little resemblance to the team he left in 2017. The tin shed training facility of old has been replaced by a state-of-the-art $27 million headquarters, and the playing roster has undergone a near-complete transformation. Hunt, however, views these changes as an opportunity to contribute rather than a challenge to overcome.

Hunt also confirms that Maguire’s approach has galvanised Brisbane’s star-studded roster. Under Maguire’s leadership, the team is focused on core values that resonate deeply with Hunt’s career. “The big drivers Madge is bringing in are working hard, competing, and never giving up on your mate,” Hunt explained, reflecting on the emphasis of a recent leadership camp that underscores the Broncos’ renewed direction.

Ben Hunt Embraces His Role in a Redemption Mission

Hunt’s return is more than symbolic. With the potential to reach 200 games for the Broncos this season, his immediate focus is on aiding the team’s premiership aspirations. With Ezra Mam suspended for nine games, Hunt will start at five-eighth in Round 1—a role he’s embraced. “I feel like it’s gone full circle with Madge; he obviously gave me my debut jersey and now, I’m a little older but he’s still showing faith in me,” he said.

Read: Why Red Hill Unit Owners Are Staying Longer Than Expected

For fans, his homecoming is a source of both nostalgia and optimism. Hunt’s experience, coupled with the club’s evolution under Maguire, positions him not just as a player but as a bridge connecting the team’s rich history to its ambitions for future success.

Published 24-January-2025

Broncos Roundup: Ezra Mam Back in Red Hill, But Controversy Remains

Ezra Mam is back in Broncos colours, but his return to Red Hill has been met with mixed emotions as the young five-eighth joined his teammates for the first time since his October car crash.

Read: Paddington Grieves as Jess Gambaro Dies After Cancer Battle

Five-eighth Ezra Mam rejoins Broncos

While the sight of Mam back in Broncos colours was a welcome one for some, his presence reignited the debate surrounding his punishment for driving unlicensed with a drug in his system—an incident that left a young girl with a fractured hip.

Despite the controversy, the Broncos are well within their rights to have Mam train with the squad. Coach Michael Maguire clearly sees value in keeping the talented playmaker engaged and integrated with the team, even though he won’t pull on the Broncos jersey until Round 10. Mam was seen working closely with new recruit Ben Hunt and attack coach Trent Barrett, honing his kicking and passing game.

But Mam’s presence has reignited the debate surrounding his punishment. NRL legends Scott Sattler and Mat Rogers recently weighed in on the timing of Mam’s reintegration. “Going to training is different to playing,” Rogers said on SEN radio. “I’m not saying let him back in (to play), but it’s his job. I don’t think he’ll be playing for the first few months of the season, but he’s still got to do his job. You have to be allowed to go to work.”

Ezra Mam to miss all competitions

The NRL has also ruled out any possibility of a loophole that could have seen Mam play reserve grade during his suspension. Despite the ban stemming from an off-field incident, Mam will be sidelined from all competitions until Round 10.

Ben Hunt hits the ground running

Hunt appears to have arrived at Red Hill in peak form. Reports from Tuesday’s session suggest he was impressive with his kicking game and looked comfortable training in both the halves and at hooker. This versatility will be crucial, as he’s expected to partner Adam Reynolds in the halves until Mam returns, then shift to hooker.

Adam Reynolds prepares for surprise trial

In a surprising move, Reynolds is set for a pre-season appearance. Despite his well-known aversion to trial games, the veteran halfback is expected to feature in the NRL Pre-season Challenge against the Bulldogs. This aims to build his combination with Hunt and ensure a smooth transition into the season. Reynolds is recovering from off-season neck surgery but is expected to be fully fit for Round 1.

Kobe Hetherington’s return and Pat Carrigan’s potential move

Kobe Hetherington’s unexpected retention has sparked speculation about a possible positional switch for captain Patrick Carrigan. Hetherington, initially told he could explore other options, was brought back into the fold by Maguire, who admires his tough playing style. This could see Carrigan, who has impressed at prop for the Pacific Championships, move up front permanently. This would allow Hetherington, a tough defender and reliable tackler, to challenge for the lock position.

Read: NRL’s Suspension of Ezra Mam Sparks Debate: Is Nine Weeks Enough?

With a mix of returning stars, new faces, and potential positional shake-ups, the Broncos pre-season is shaping up to be anything but dull. Fans will be eagerly watching how these storylines develop as the 6 March season opener against the Roosters draws closer.

Published 09-January-2025

Broncos Star Ezra Mam Reflects on Costly Mistake

Brisbane Broncos star Ezra Mam faces an uncertain path back to first-grade football following his guilty plea to drug driving and unlicensed driving charges at Brisbane Magistrates Court on Monday.

The 21-year-old five-eighth was fined $850 and had his licence disqualified for six months. Since then, he has been training in isolation at the Broncos’ Red Hill headquarters while awaiting the NRL Integrity Unit’s final determination on potential sanctions.

Read: Signs of Hope Amid Pre-season Concerns: Maguire’s Vision Takes Shape for the Brisbane Broncos

Court ruling and public reaction

The 18 October crash in Bardon, which involved an Uber carrying a woman and her four-year-old daughter, has drawn widespread criticism over the perceived leniency of the court’s punishment. NRL commentator Mark Levy suggested a season-long suspension, criticising the court’s penalty as insufficient. Redland woman Judy Lindsay, who lost her daughter in a 2009 crash, called for stricter penalties to deter similar behaviour.

Mam expressed remorse outside court, saying, “To all the people involved in this accident, I’m truly sorry.”

“This incident isn’t a reflection of who I want to be or what is expected of me as a role model.”

Broncos’ response to the incident

Broncos coach Michael Maguire revealed he has had several discussions with Mam, who has been working unpaid at a Brisbane building site after completing a four-week rehabilitation program at The Banyans Healthcare.

“I’ve had a number of conversations with him, and Ezra’s working through the process,” Maguire told Channel 9. “I think he’s learned a lot from this moment in time.”

“He’s a young man that’s made a mistake, and he’s working hard to make sure that he moves forward now in the right path.”

The Broncos have ruled out contract termination but have moved to shore up their playmaking stocks, signing veteran Queensland Origin star Ben Hunt on a two-year deal. Hunt, who commenced training with the club on Sunday, is expected to partner Adam Reynolds in the halves at the start of the 2025 season.

Read: Ben Hunt Returns to Red Hill as Broncos Eye Title Glory

Ezra Mam, future and redemption

Mam’s immediate playing future hinges on the NRL Integrity Unit’s investigation. He is expected to rejoin his teammates when they return from their Christmas break in January. In the meantime, he continues his twice-daily training sessions at Red Hill.

The incident has reignited debates on accountability in professional sport. As the Broncos prepare to wrap up their pre-season training this week, the timing of Mam’s return to the field remains uncertain, leaving both the player and club in a holding pattern heading into the new year.

Published 18-December-2024

Signs of Hope Amid Pre-season Concerns: Maguire’s Vision Takes Shape for the Brisbane Broncos

Recent observations at Brisbane Broncos’ pre-season training have sparked discussion among supporters, with conflicting reports emerging about the fitness levels of key players Reece Walsh and Selwyn Cobbo.

Read: Auchenflower Hospital to Undergo Major Expansion

A challenging pre-season for the Brisbane Broncos?

During Monday’s fitness testing at Red Hill, Channel 10’s Ted Roker observed Walsh and Cobbo trailing at the back of the group with veteran Martin Taupau. This has sparked debate as new coach Michael Maguire introduces a rigorous regime to transform the Broncos after their lacklustre 2024 season.

Teammates rally behind Walsh

Despite concerns raised by Monday’s fitness testing, teammates like Jesse Arthars and Payne Haas have defended Walsh’s pre-season form, describing it as the strongest he’s displayed in years. “Reece has been going pretty hard,” Arthars noted last week, highlighting Walsh’s commitment alongside Payne Haas throughout pre-season preparations.

Haas himself stepped forward on Tuesday to address the fitness concerns during a sponsor media event. “To be honest, Walshy is probably the fittest he’s come back,” Haas insisted. “Pre-season is tough, so all the boys are having a red-hot crack and they’re going well.”

Maguire faces tough player decisions

While fitness levels have sparked debate, equally pressing are the strategic decisions facing Maguire, particularly around Cobbo’s role within the squad. Maguire has indicated he’s considering moving Cobbo back to the wing, despite his 2024 centre role. “Selwyn is potentially a wing option, yes,” Maguire confirmed to The Courier Mail, emphasising Cobbo’s versatility and strong ball-carrying abilities.

The situation is further complicated by salary cap pressures. Ben Hunt’s acquisition and Walsh’s $5 million contract extension have tightened the club’s financial landscape, delaying contract discussions with Cobbo until after the pre-season period. These constraints raise questions about whether the Broncos can retain their core talent while balancing their budget, potentially forcing difficult decisions between keeping Cobbo or Kotoni Staggs beyond 2025.

Despite these early pre-season talking points, there are positive signs for the Broncos. Jordan Riki’s strong showing in the fitness test, immediately after returning from international duty with New Zealand, demonstrates the high standards possible under Maguire’s new regime.

Read: Ben Hunt Returns to Red Hill as Broncos Eye Title Glory

As the Christmas break approaches, Brisbane Broncos supporters will be watching closely to see how these early pre-season developments shape the team’s preparations for 2025. With Maguire at the helm, the Broncos’ renewed focus will be critical in their bid to restore former glory after missing the top eight in 2024.

Published 14-December-2024

Ben Hunt Returns to Red Hill as Broncos Eye Title Glory

Brisbane Broncos have landed a major coup for their 2025 premiership campaign, securing the services of Queensland Origin star Ben Hunt on a two-year deal. The signing marks a homecoming for Hunt, who launched his NRL career with the Broncos in 2009.

Read: Auchenflower Hospital to Undergo Major Expansion

Ben Hunt reveals why Brisbane won out

When asked whether returning to the Broncos was always the plan, Hunt admitted in an interview with 4BC Brisbane, “It definitely wasn’t always, and that’s what made the decision process so long.”

“Having a family down here in Sydney, we had to weigh up whether it was the right move to come back to Queensland or stay down here and finish off before we move back.”

Despite strong interest from Sydney clubs, Hunt’s emotional connection to Brisbane won out. “In my heart it always kept taking me back to Brisbane and the possibility of finishing off my career where it all started,” Hunt revealed.

Premiership vision drives return

Broncos head coach Michael Maguire believes Hunt could be the missing piece in breaking Brisbane’s 19-year title drought. “He would give us great depth,” Madge said. “Ben has played both positions at the highest levels at hooker and halfback, so it would give us versatility around what he can do.”

Hunt, too, is optimistic about his return. “I’m hoping I can contribute and win a competition,” he shared, voicing his championship ambitions. “I believe they’ve got the troops to do it, and Madge will be great for the club.”

Hunt is open to embracing any role that benefits the team but remains clear about his priorities. “My priority is to play in the half—that’s my favourite position,” he stated. “But playing hooker definitely isn’t an issue for me.”

“We’ll cross that bridge when we get there.”

Looking ahead to 2025

The 334-game veteran will begin training under Maguire next month, bringing experience and leadership to Red Hill. “I met with Madge a couple of times and everything we talked about was footy related—what he thinks the side’s capable of and how I can contribute,” Hunt said. “Our conversations were outstanding and I’m looking forward to playing under him.”

Read: Paddo Tavern Set for Major Revamp in Time for Brisbane Olympics

“For him to come back and achieve something that he set out as a kid at the Broncos, it would be an incredible story,” Maguire added, highlighting the narrative of Hunt’s return.

With Hunt’s leadership and skillset, the Broncos’ spine is shaping up to be one of the strongest in the NRL, giving the team a dynamic edge as they prepare for the 2025 season.

Published 27-November-2024