Wendy Bourne MP, State Member for Ipswich West, has renewed calls for Ipswich to be awarded the
20th NRL licence, following recent comments from the Minister for Sport supporting a Central
Queensland franchise.
As Queensland’s fastest-growing region, with a deep rugby league heritage, Ms Bourne asserted that
Ipswich is the logical choice for the state’s next NRL franchise.
Ms Bourne highlighted Ipswich’s readiness for top-flight rugby league, including the $40 million
upgrade of North Ipswich Reserve into a Centre of Excellence, for which she was proud to secure $10
million on behalf of the former State Labor Government.
She also pointed to the 2024 partnership between the Ipswich Jets and the NSW-based Newtown Jets
as further evidence of momentum behind the bid, with the historic partnership receiving the backing
of QRL CEO Ben Ikin, who views the Ipswich Jets as the NRL’s inevitable next franchise.
The bid includes an in-principle agreement with Lang Park to host initial home games, with support
from key stakeholders including businessman and Newtown Jets life member John Singleton.
Following the Crisafulli Government’s decision not to allocate any major 2032 Olympic events to
Ipswich, Ms Bourne said backing the NRL bid is an important opportunity to recognise the region as a
major sporting hub.
Quotes attributable to Wendy Bourne MP, State Member for Ipswich West:
“While the Minister for Sport acknowledges Central Queensland’s rugby league history, it is remiss of
him to not recognise Ipswich as the heartland of the game.”
“Our region has produced some of the game’s greatest players, including Allan Langer, and the
Walters brothers, along with champions like Shane Webcke, Steve Price and Darren Lockyer from the
wider western corridor. In the women’s game too, Ipswich has produced stars like Jillaroos champions
Ali Brigginshaw and Julia Robinson. Ipswich has given so much to rugby league, and deserves the
20th NRL licence.”
“I’m proud to have secured $10 million to deliver a Centre of Excellence at North Ipswich Reserve.
Combined with the Jets’ partnership with the Newtown, and the Lang Park agreement, it is clear that
Ipswich not only has the talent and support, but also the infrastructure to host an NRL side.”
“Ipswich consistently punches above its weight in sport, yet we continue to be overlooked. After
missing out on major Olympic events in 2032, this is a clear opportunity for the Minister to back our
region and support Ipswich’s bid for the 20th NRL licence.”
For media enquiries, contact ipswich.west@parliament.qld.gov.au
