Gladstone’s best State of Origin players revealed

We’ve ranked the best players to pull on the Maroon jersey from our region. Who’s number one? VOTE IN OUR POLL

Gladstone's best State of Origin players: Jason Hetherington, Gary Larson, Corey Oates and PJ Marsh.

The Gladstone region has provided many wonderful rugby league players over the years.

But who are the district’s finest Queensland State of Origin representatives?

We reflect on three of our finest who have flown the flag and done the Central Queensland region proud.

WHO’S YOUR NO. 1? HAVE YOUR SAY IN THE COMMENTS AND SCROLL DOWN TO VOTE IN OUR POLL

Gary Larson is tackled by Paul Harragon and Dean Pay in game one of the 1996 State of Origin series.

1. Gary Larson

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A warhorse in the true sense of the word, Larson Queensland’s forwards leader across the 1990s. He made his debut in Wally Lewis’ last series in 1991, then progressed from the back row to the front row where he bravely led the charge series after series. He also played nine Tests for Australia, a wonderful achievement for a real ironman of the sport. You know you are a big wig in town when you have a field named after you, as is the case in Miriam Vale.

Jason Hetherington in game one of the 1999 State of Origin series.

2. Jason Hetherington

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With his dry country way of talking and his skill on the field, Jason Hetherington would be one of Queensland’s most popular State of Origin players. A hooker, he was tough yet skilful, cunning in creating around the ruck while also plugging a hole in the middle when the tough stuff was required in defence. He also had the distinction of playing two Tests - not bad for a bloke from Baralaba.

Corey Oates in Game 1 of the 2019 State of Origin series. Photo: AAP Image/Glenn Hunt

3. Corey Oates

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Another Baralaba boy, the long striding Oates remains on Origin contender. Originally a backrower, he was given a start on the wing by former Broncos coach Anthony Griffin which turned out to be a master stroke. Whenever he has donned the Queensland jumper, Oates has been one of Queensland’s best, with his powerful runs from kick returns a feature.

PJ Marsh in game two of the 2002 State of Origin series. Photo: David Kapernick

4. PJ Marsh

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PJ Marsh was a match winner for Queensland in its series win during 2002. A halfback or hooker, he played dummy half and, along with Lote Tuqiri, Chris McKenna and Dane Carlaw, was instrumental in helping Queensland to victory. His speed out of the ruck that night surprised a NSW team expecting to win. It was a wonderful achievement and no one can take away from him his role in a Queensland series win.