Why Rockhampton’s CQ Capras are rooting for Brisbane Firehawks to become NRL’s 17th team

The Capras have announced an agreement that will change rugby league in Rockhampton - but it’s dependent on one thing.

Rockhampton will be home to regular NRL action if the Brisbane Firehawks become the competition’s 17th team.

The CQ Capras will also become a feeder club for the Firehawks if the club’s bid to join the premiership competition is successful.

In a huge boost to rugby league in Central Queensland, the two clubs announced on Tuesday they had struck a five-year affiliation agreement.

The Firehawks are one of three clubs vying for the the 17th licence which will come into play if the ARL Commission agrees to expand the competition in 2023.

The agreement with the Capras means the Firehawks will have both trial and fixture games in Rockhampton during the five-year term.

Players from the Firehawks will line up with the Capras in the Intrust Super Cup when not selected to play in the NRL.

A co-branded academy will also be established in Rockhampton, which will focus on elite players from the under-16 to under-18 age groups.

Pathways and participation will also be a priority, with the Firehawks committed to providing assistance, both financial and through coaching expertise, to the Capras in the delivery of club and school-based programs.

Capras CEO Peter White.

Capras CEO Peter White said an NRL affiliation agreement was a vital step towards providing clear pathway opportunities for the club’s players and coaching staff.

“Central Queensland has always provided top-line rugby league talent and current players such as Cameron Munster, Harry Grant and Tamika Upton are just a small example,” he said.

“Player talent and rusted-on rugby league support is something we bring to the table, and we are very pleased that the Firehawks have offered our club this opportunity on the back of these attributes.”

Firehawks CEO Brian Torpy said the Firehawks were excited to affiliate with the Capras.

“The Central Queensland and Wide Bay region is a rugby league heartland and have produced a multitude of NRL stars,” he said.

“This long-term agreement will provide ongoing support and stability to the Capras, provide a significant economic stimulus to Rockhampton and provide better pathways for young rugby league players from Central Queensland to become NRL players.

“We will assist the Capras with co-branded pathways and participation programs, as well as offering opportunities for Capras players and staff to train and work with the Firehawks’ playing group and staff.”

Rockhampton region Mayor Tony Williams said having home-grown players linked to the Firehawks and being able to play in Rockhampton was a great opportunity for the local community to watch high-profile players in their home town.

The Firehawks have also committed to chartering several aircraft from Alliance Airlines on NRL game days, to transport Brisbane-based supporters to Rockhampton, further stimulating the local economy.

Originally published as Why Rockhampton’s CQ Capras are rooting for Brisbane Firehawks to become NRL’s 17th team