The North Sydney Bears won competitions in 1921 and 1992, and were among the NSWRL's foundation clubs.
Their brand could reach a new generation when the Perth Bears enter the NRL as its 18th team in 2027.
Mal Meninga has warned Australia's east coast to prepare for a major wave of support for the new club.
The 2026 NRL season has ended, and preparations are now gathering pace at the Bears' WACA base.
In six weeks, most of the inaugural squad will meet for the first time, ahead of pre-season training.
Players have seen predictions that the team will finish last in its first season.
Meninga says an Immortal and a groundswell of support will give the Bears motivation, with that support expected to surprise their rivals.
Fans under 30 may know the Perth club is joining the competition, but are too young to have experienced the reach of the Bears name.