Queensland Rugby League has revealed that the Dolphins NRL franchise will assist in developing rugby league in the Wide Bay area, situated 170 kilometers from Brisbane.
The Wide Bay region extends from the Sunshine Coast to Gladstone and Bundaberg, an area known for producing talents like Titans captain Tino Fa'asuamaleaui, Dolphins forward Felise Kaufusi, and Cowboys prop Coen Hess.
The NRL club plans to collaborate closely with the Wide Bay Bulls, a representative team that fields junior talent in U15, U17, and U19 statewide competitions.
Negotiations with the Dolphins intensified following a board meeting in July, aimed at establishing the Bulls as a pathway for local rugby league talent programs.
The Dolphins will take charge of the Bulls' branding in the region, likely offering support in funding, equipment, and identifying talent.
Choosing the Dolphins was influenced by the absence of a major QLD Cup team in the region, the existing school programs from the NRL club in Wide Bay, and their established presence in the area.
The Bulls are set to provide pathways for both male and female players into the Cyril Connell Cup and the Harvey Norman junior competitions.
It is expected that standout talents from the area will transition to the Dolphins NRL academy.
"The QRL remains committed to ensuring young players in the Wide Bay region continue to have access to high-quality development opportunities and clear pathways to the elite levels of the game," said a QRL statement.