Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge made a statement regarding the farewell message of a star player who is leaving the team. Beveridge expressed his gratitude for the player’s contributions and acknowledged the impact they had on the team. He emphasized the player’s professionalism, dedication, and the legacy they leave behind. Beveridge also wished the player success in their future endeavors, noting that they will always be a part of the Bulldogs’ family.
The Cowboys have finalized a new three-year contract with prop Coen Hess, securing his stay in Townsville through the end of the 2027 NRL season. Hess, who debuted for the club as a teenager in 2015, will miss the 2024 season due to a pre-season ACL injury but is set to enter the Cowboys’ top 10 list for appearances next year. This signing follows North Queensland’s re-commitment to prop Tom Mikaele on a new two-year deal, with a club option for 2027.
Cowboys GM of football Micheal Luck expressed satisfaction with extending Hess’s contract, highlighting his long-term contributions and unique impact on the field. “He has been a huge contributor to this club over a long period of time and is a point of difference for us on the field with the work he churns through as well as his enthusiasm and intensity,” Luck said. “We’re excited to have another North Queensland junior taking another step towards becoming a one-club player.”
Origin star AJ Brimson has signed a contract extension to stay with the Gold Coast Titans until 2030. The 26-year-old will remain a one-club player, having joined the Titans at 15 and debuting in the NRL in 2018. Brimson expressed his commitment to the club and excitement for the future, stating, “The Titans mean quite a bit to me. It’s been my home and my work for the last ten years. I love playing for this club and I love the Gold Coast. I’m also excited for what the future holds. This new deal is good security for me and my family and I’m extremely excited for the next six years.”
Penrith Panthers have secured Kiwi test star Isaiah Papali’i from the start of 2025. The 2021 Dally M Second Rower of the Year, previously under contract with Wests Tigers until the end of 2025, will join the Panthers after being allowed to negotiate an early release. Panthers Rugby League CEO Matt Cameron expressed enthusiasm about Papali’i’s signing, highlighting his experience, leadership, and world-class forward capabilities. Papali’i will bring his experience from Wests Tigers and Parramatta to Penrith, where he will mark his 150th NRL game later this year.
The Melbourne Storm have released Aaron Pene to pursue an opportunity in the Super League. Pene debuted in the NRL in 2020 with the Storm, played another nine games in 2021, spent 2022 with the Warriors, and returned to Melbourne in 2023, bringing his career total to 32 NRL games. Pene reflected positively on his time with the Storm, appreciating the impact of the club on his career and life.
The Dolphins have agreed to a new two-year deal with versatile forward Ray Stone, keeping him with the club until at least the end of 2026. Stone joined the Dolphins from the Eels for their inaugural campaign last year and has appeared in 26 matches under coach Wayne Bennett.
The Bulldogs have signed Tom Amone from the Leigh Leopards on a two-year deal starting in 2025. The 27-year-old previously played for the Rabbitohs and Wests Tigers before moving to Leigh in 2022, where he played 63 games across two seasons, including the 2023 Challenge Cup final victory.
The Sea Eagles have signed Aaron Schoupp to a two-year deal after his immediate release by the Gold Coast Titans. The 22-year-old has played 52 NRL games since his debut for the Bulldogs in 2021.
Representative forward Jaydn Su’A will stay with the Dragons, signing a two-year extension through the end of 2026. Su’A joined St George Illawarra in 2022 after playing for the Broncos and Rabbitohs. This extension comes shortly after Queensland Origin representative David Fifita confirmed his stay with the Titans beyond 2024, taking up his player option for the 2025 and 2026 seasons.
