Hubbry Logo
Burleigh BearsBurleigh BearsMain
Open search
Burleigh Bears
Community hub
Burleigh Bears
logo
7 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Burleigh Bears
Burleigh Bears
Burleigh Bears
View on Wikipedia
from Wikipedia

The Burleigh Bears are an Australian professional rugby league football club based in Gold Coast, Australia.[1] They compete in Queensland's top rugby league competition, the Queensland Cup.[2]

Key Information

Since their admission to the competition in 1997, the club has appeared in six Grand Finals, winning four (1999, 2004, 2016 and 2019) and won the minor premiership three times (2003, 2004 and 2023). The team's leagues club and home ground, Pizzey Park, are located in the Gold Coast suburb of Miami. They currently serve as one of the feeder clubs for the Brisbane Broncos.

History

[edit]

Formed in 1934 by Bob Singh, originally based out of Rudd Park in Burleigh, the Bears relocated to Currumbin in 1959 after a nine-year cessation. In 1971, they relocated, this time to their current home, Pizzey Park, in Burleigh's neighbouring suburb of Miami.[3]

Originally, the Bears competed in the Gold Coast Group 18 competition, before they were admitted to the state's top competition, the Queensland Cup, in 1997. Rick Stone, coached the Bears for 13 seasons, leading them to two premierships, in 1999 and 2004, before returning to the club in 2020 after his predecessor, Jim Lenihan, was promoted to assistant coach of the Gold Coast Titans.[4]

The Bears had an affiliation with the Titans between 2007 and 2023. The Bears briefly became a feeder side to the Brisbane Broncos in 2008, before aligning back to the Titans in 2009. On 6 December 2019, it was revealed the Bears had extended their affiliation agreement with the Titans until the end of the 2022 season.[5] For the 2024 season and beyond, the Bears will return to being a feeder team of the Broncos.

Results

[edit]

Queensland Cup

[edit]
  • 1997 – 4th
  • 1998 – 8th
  • 1999 – 3rd (Premiers)
  • 2000 — 4th
  • 2001 – 2nd
  • 2002 – 4th
  • 2003 – 1st (runners-up)
  • 2004 – 1st (Premiers)
  • 2005 – 3rd (runners-up)
  • 2006 – 6th
  • 2007 – 7th
  • 2008 – 6th
  • 2009 – 7th
  • 2010 – 7th
  • 2011 – 7th
  • 2012 – 9th
  • 2013 – 11th
  • 2014 – 7th
  • 2015 – 9th
  • 2016 – 2nd (Premiers)
  • 2017 – 10th
  • 2018 – 2nd
  • 2019 – 3rd (Premiers)

Honours

[edit]

Queensland Cup

[edit]
  • Premierships: 5
1999, 2004, 2016, 2019, 2025
  • Runners Up: 2
2003, 2005
  • Minor Premiership: 2
2003, 2004, 2022, 2023, 2025

Records

[edit]

Most games for club

  • 201, Shane O'Flanagan
  • 160, Ali Brown
  • 146, Martin Griese
  • 139, Ryan Gundry
  • 135, Robert Apanui

Most points for club

Most tries for club

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Burleigh Bears

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
The Burleigh Bears, officially the Burleigh Heads Rugby League Football Club, is a semi-professional club based in Burleigh Heads on the Gold Coast, , . Established in 1934, the club fields senior men's and women's teams in statewide competitions such as the Hostplus Cup () and the Gold Coast Rugby League, while also maintaining extensive junior and development pathways that feed into the National Rugby League's . Known for its maroon and white playing strip, the Bears play home matches at Pizzey Park in and are recognized as one of 's largest and most successful community organizations. The club's origins trace back to 1924, when it was initially formed to compete in local Gold Coast leagues, though formal operations and its first home ground at Rudd Park were established in 1934 following a period of dormancy. After relocating to Currumbin in 1959 and then to the current Pizzey Park venue in 1971, the Bears have built a reputation for competitive excellence, securing five premierships in 1999, 2004, 2016, 2019, and 2025, as well as multiple Gold Coast A-grade titles including in 1982, 1995, 2000, 2006, 2012, 2017, 2021, and others. The women's program has been particularly dominant, claiming multiple Women's premierships, including seven from 2015 to 2023, highlighting the club's commitment to gender equity in the sport. As a key feeder club for the Titans since the NRL team's inception in 2007, Burleigh emphasizes player development, with over 10,000 members and a focus on community engagement through nine senior teams across various grades. In the 2025 season, the Bears won the premiership.

Club Identity

Name and colours

The Burleigh Heads Rugby League Football Club is the official name of the organization, operating as a and commonly referred to in competitive contexts as the Burleigh Bears. The club's primary nickname is "the Bears," a moniker that embodies its branding and has been used consistently since the mid-20th century to distinguish it in Gold Coast rugby league competitions. The primary colours of the Burleigh Bears are and , which are prominently featured in the club's uniforms, including jerseys, shorts, and socks, to represent team identity during matches. These colours were adopted in the club's formative years following its reformation in 1934, aligning with local traditions on the Gold Coast. The club's emblem is a stylized bear head logo, rendered in tones to evoke ferocity and local pride, and has served as the central element of its visual identity. The design has evolved over decades, with updates in the and incorporating more dynamic lines and integration with sponsor elements while retaining the core motif.

Home ground and facilities

The Burleigh Bears' primary home ground is Pizzey Park, located in the suburb of the Gold Coast, , which the club acquired in 1971 and has used continuously since. This 60-hectare sports and recreation precinct, named after former Jack Pizzey, was originally established in 1949 as a municipal site that operated until 1980 before being transformed into a multi-sport venue. The main field, known as Bob Singh Oval, features a grass surface with a capacity of 5,000 spectators, including 580 grandstand seats and 1,190 bench seats. Prior to relocating to Pizzey Park, the Bears played at Rudd Park in Burleigh Heads, which served as their official home ground from 1934 until 1971. The club briefly shifted to Currumbin in 1959 following a nine-year cessation of operations, aiming to rebuild and strengthen its competitive presence in local . These early relocations reflected the club's efforts to adapt to changing local conditions and sustain growth amid the developing Gold Coast scene, though specific drivers like urban expansion at Rudd Park are not detailed in club records. Pizzey Park's facilities support the Bears' operations with dedicated training fields, clubrooms, and player amenities integrated into the broader precinct, which also hosts soccer, , , and athletics. Recent upgrades, including a 2021 refurbishment of public and player amenities with modern fixtures and a revamped medical room, have enhanced welfare standards for athletes. In October 2025, the began community consultation for additional upgrades, including a community hub, celebration lawn, and indoor and skate facility. The precinct's master plan, developed in 2021 with input from local clubs like the Bears, continues to guide improvements such as enhanced connectivity and event infrastructure. Beyond hosting Queensland Cup home games, Pizzey Park plays a central role in community engagement for the Bears, serving as the base for their junior rugby league programs that cater to over 950 players across 65 teams aged U6 to U18, including girls' teams. The site facilitates training sessions, come-and-try events, and presentation days, fostering youth development and family involvement in the sport.

Affiliations and partnerships

The Burleigh Bears have maintained a significant affiliation with (NRL) clubs as a feeder team in the Queensland Rugby League's Hostplus Cup. From 2007 to 2023, the club served as the primary affiliate for the Gold Coast Titans, facilitating player loans, secondments, and development opportunities for emerging talent from the Gold Coast region. In 2024, the Bears transitioned to a three-year partnership with the , serving as one of their key feeder clubs alongside and Wynnum-Manly Seagulls, which has enhanced their access to Broncos' academy prospects and coaching resources. Key partnerships extend beyond NRL ties to include longstanding sponsorships with local entities that underpin the club's operations. The Burleigh Leagues Club has been the primary backer since the 1970s, providing financial support, facilities at Pizzey Park, and sponsorship packages for training gear, match-day apparel, and signage across the Bears' senior teams. Additionally, as a core member of the Rugby League (QRL), the Bears benefit from integrated governance, competition scheduling, and funding streams within the Hostplus Cup structure, ensuring alignment with statewide development standards. These affiliations have profoundly shaped the club's structure by enabling talent pipelines, , and competitive edge. The Broncos partnership, for instance, allows for regular player loans and joint training initiatives, injecting NRL-caliber expertise into the Bears' program; in the 2025 season, promising forward Takitau Mapapalangi, who featured prominently for Burleigh after progressing through Broncos pathways, exemplified this by earning of the Year honors before securing a Broncos . Such arrangements provide essential for infrastructure upgrades and youth programs, bolstering the club's ability to compete at the elite Intrastate level. On the community front, the Bears foster partnerships with Gold Coast schools to support junior recruitment and development. As the largest junior club in the region with over 950 registered players across 65 teams in recent seasons, they collaborate on initiatives like the TAFE at School Program, which integrates rugby league training with for high school students, creating direct pathways from local schools to club squads. This strengthened framework contributed to the Bears' dominant 2025 Hostplus Cup premiership victory, their first since 2019.

History

Formation and early years

The Burleigh Bears club was formally founded in 1934 by Bob Singh, with the primary aim of competing in the Gold Coast Group 18 competition and fostering community engagement through multiple grades of play. This establishment coincided with the official designation of Rudd Park as the club's home ground, marking a key step in its organizational development. Although some historical accounts reference an earlier informal group dating to 1924, the 1934 formation under Singh's leadership is widely recognized as the official origin, emphasizing structured competition over casual gatherings. The early years were shaped by foundational figures like Bob Singh, who not only initiated the club but also served in leadership roles, including as president, to navigate initial challenges such as limited resources and growing local interest in . brought significant disruptions, leading to a nine-year cessation of club activities due to wartime constraints on personnel and operations. Despite these setbacks, the post-war period saw renewed momentum, with notable successes including an undefeated premiership in the 1948 and a B Grade title in 1949, highlighting the club's emerging competitiveness in local leagues. In the and , the Bears experienced growth following a reformation through a partnership with the Currumbin club, which strengthened its structure and enabled expansion across multiple competitive grades. This period solidified the club's role in Gold Coast rugby league, building on early foundations to support broader community involvement and sustained participation in regional competitions.

Expansion and Gold Coast era

In the 1970s, the Burleigh Bears underwent key developments that solidified their presence in the Gold Coast scene. The club relocated from Currumbin to Pizzey Park in 1971, establishing a permanent home ground that supported expanded operations and . This move aligned with the club's focus on competing in the Gold Coast Group 18 competition across three grades, fostering regional growth amid the area's rapid population increase. The decade's highlight came in 1979 with the Bears' first A Grade premiership, coached by Eric Lilley and captained by ; the team featured several players who later advanced to professional leagues in and , underscoring the club's emerging talent pipeline. The and marked a period of sustained success and structural expansion for the Bears within the Gold Coast competition. They claimed A Grade premierships in 1982, 1995, and 1999, alongside reserve grade and under-19 titles in 1982, demonstrating consistent dominance and depth across grades. During this era, the club broadened its reach by developing junior programs, including under-19 teams that contributed to premiership wins and fed into senior squads, while early women's initiatives from the evolved into more structured participation efforts. By the mid-, Burleigh had grown into one of Queensland's largest senior clubs, boasting multiple teams and robust community facilities that enhanced its regional influence. Despite these achievements, the Bears faced notable challenges from financial pressures and intensified competition on the Gold Coast. The entry of professional NRL franchises, such as the Gold Coast Seagulls in 1988, strained local clubs through player recruitment and fan diversion, testing Burleigh's resilience amid economic demands of expansion. The 1999 A Grade premiership, in particular, highlighted the club's preparedness for elevated state-level involvement, bridging local success to broader competitive pathways.

Queensland Cup involvement and modern achievements

The Burleigh Bears entered the in 1997 as the competition's first Gold Coast-based team, marking a significant expansion of statewide to the region's burgeoning talent pool. Their debut season saw them qualify for series, but early years were marked by inconsistency as the club adjusted to the higher level of competition, finishing outside the top eights in 1998 before a breakthrough in 1999. That year, under coach Rick Stone, the Bears claimed their maiden premiership with a narrow 12–10 victory over the at Suncorp Stadium, ending the decider with a tense defensive stand in the final minutes. This success established the Bears as a competitive force and highlighted their potential to nurture local players for broader pathways. The 2000s brought affiliation challenges that influenced the club's trajectory, including a brief feeder arrangement with the in 2008 amid shifting NRL partnerships, which disrupted player development continuity following their initial alignment with the Gold Coast Titans from 2007. Despite these impacts, the Bears secured a second premiership in 2004, defeating the Easts Tigers 22–18 in the grand final. The long-term Titans partnership from 2007 onward proved more stable, fostering talent pipelines that contributed to further titles in 2016 (26–16 over ) and 2019 (28–10 over ), with the latter campaign featuring a resilient run through the after securing a top-three finish. These eras underscored the Bears' adaptability and role in bridging Gold Coast with NRL aspirations. In 2024, the club celebrated its 100th anniversary, marking a century of on the Gold Coast since its informal formation in 1924. In 2024, the Bears transitioned to a new three-year affiliation with the , replacing the Titans partnership and injecting fresh resources into their program. This shift preceded their fifth premiership in 2025, where they defeated the Norths Devils 22–8 in the grand final at Kayo Stadium, Redcliffe, with Josh Rogers earning player-of-the-match honors for his commanding performance. However, their season ended on a sour note in the , suffering a 20–50 loss to the . Concurrently, the club's women's program has expanded markedly since entering the QRL Women's Premiership in 2015, securing seven titles (2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2020, 2021, and 2023) and establishing Burleigh as a leader in female development on the Gold Coast, and reached the grand final in 2025, losing 6-22 to the . Beyond on-field results, the Bears have played a pivotal role in Gold Coast rugby league growth by producing NRL-caliber talent—such as Titans players—and through community initiatives like the RISE development program for juniors, which emphasizes skill-building and inclusivity. Their emphasis on local engagement, including partnerships with schools and events fostering fan participation, has strengthened the sport's footprint in the region, contributing to increased participation rates and a vibrant club culture.

Seasons and Results

Men's Queensland Cup performance

The Burleigh Bears joined the as a foundation club in , marking their entry into professional on the Gold Coast. In their debut season, they finished 4th on the ladder with a record of 13 wins, 4 losses, and 1 draw, advancing to the semi-finals before elimination. The team quickly built momentum, culminating in their first appearance in 1999, where they defeated the minor premiers 12–10 in a tense match at Suncorp Stadium to claim the premiership. The early 2000s represented a golden era for the Bears, with consistent top-four finishes and multiple deep playoff runs. They secured minor premierships in 2003 (16 wins, 4 losses) and 2004 (15 wins, 5 losses), showcasing dominant regular-season form. However, 2003 ended in heartbreak as runners-up after a 31–18 loss to the at Dolphin Oval. The following year brought redemption, as the Bears repeated as minor premiers and won the title with a 22–18 extra-time victory over the Easts Tigers at Suncorp Stadium, their second premiership. A brief dip followed, including a 2005 appearance where they fell 36–6 to the North Queensland Cowboys' feeder team at Suncorp Stadium, marking their second runners-up finish. After a period of mid-table inconsistency from 2006 to 2015, during which the Bears made sporadic playoff appearances but no grand finals, the team experienced a resurgence aligned with strengthened player development pathways through their affiliation with the Gold Coast Titans (established in 2007). This partnership facilitated talent loans and coaching exchanges, contributing to improved depth and consistency. In , they stormed to the premiership with a 26–16 win over the at Suncorp Stadium, ending a 12-year title drought. The Bears followed this with another championship in 2019, overpowering the 28–10 in the at Suncorp Stadium. Recent seasons have solidified their status as contenders, including minor premierships in 2022 (15 wins, 4 losses, 1 draw) and 2025 (15 wins, 1 draw, 4 losses), alongside a 2023 minor premiership (15 wins, 1 draw, 4 losses) that led to a loss. The 2025 campaign peaked with a hard-fought 22–8 victory over the Norths Devils at Kayo Stadium, securing their fifth premiership and completing a minor premiership-championship double. The Bears' playoff pedigree includes seven grand final appearances since 1997, with five wins and two losses, alongside 14 total finals series qualifications. Across 268 regular-season games through 2025, they hold an all-time record of 174 wins, 93 losses, and 1 draw, yielding a 65% win percentage—strongest among Gold Coast-based clubs. Their home record at Pizzey Park stands at 92 wins from 124 games (74%), compared to 67 wins from 124 away (54%), highlighting the venue's fortress-like status. Notable high-scoring games include a 48–12 rout of the Northern Pride in 2018 and a 44–18 thrashing of the in 2021, exemplifying their attacking prowess in key victories. Post-2016 trends show marked improvement, with four premierships and three minor premierships in the last decade, largely attributed to the Titans affiliation's role in nurturing NRL-caliber talent until its 2023 transition to the .
YearResultOpponentScoreVenueSource
1999Win (Premiers)12–10Suncorp Stadium
2003Loss (Runners-up)18–31Dolphin Oval
2004Win (Premiers)Easts Tigers22–18 (ET)Suncorp Stadium
2005Loss (Runners-up)North Queensland Young Guns6–36Suncorp Stadium
2016Win (Premiers)26–16Suncorp Stadium
2019Win (Premiers)28–10Suncorp Stadium
2025Win (Premiers)Norths Devils22–8Kayo Stadium

Women's and junior teams performance

The Burleigh Bears women's team entered the Queensland Rugby League Women's (QRLW) competition in 2015 and rapidly became a powerhouse, winning their inaugural premiership that year. They followed this with further titles in 2016 (including successes in both the SEQ Women's Division 1 and state competitions), 2017, 2018, 2020, and 2021, establishing a dominant run during the competition's early professional era. In 2023, the Bears secured their seventh BMD Premiership with a 24-10 victory over the , marking a historic milestone in women's on the Gold Coast. The 2016 season stood out as particularly dominant, with the team achieving an undefeated in the SEQ Women's en route to back-to-back titles. This period of success highlighted the Bears' emphasis on structured development and tactical discipline, setting a benchmark for women's programs in . In 2025, the Bears again reached the BMD Premiership grand final but fell short, losing 22-6 to the at Kayo Stadium, underscoring their consistent contention at the elite level despite the narrow defeat. These achievements have bolstered pathways to the NRL Women's (NRLW) competition through the club's three-year affiliation with the , commencing in 2024, which facilitates player transitions and shared resources for elite development. The women's program integrates closely with the broader club structure, promoting gender equity in training and facilities at Pizzey Park. The Burleigh Bears' junior teams, encompassing U19, U20, and Colts squads, play a vital role in talent identification and retention within the Gold Coast (RLGC) competitions. In 2024, the U20 team clinched the RLGC Earth Fleet Cup championship with a commanding 40-10 win over the Runaway Bay Seagulls, demonstrating strong depth in youth development. Similarly, the A Grade reserves secured a premiership that season, contributing to the club's sweep of senior local titles and reinforcing their reputation for excellence in reserve grades. Over the years, Burleigh's junior programs have accumulated numerous titles across age-group and reserve competitions, with consistent wins in RLGC divisions fostering a robust pipeline to senior levels. This success emphasizes the club's focus on grassroots growth, with junior squads benefiting from Broncos pathways that extend to NRLW opportunities for female players.

Honours and Records

Team honours

The Burleigh Bears have achieved significant success in the , securing five premiership titles. Their victories came in 1999 against the Norths Devils, 2004 against the Easts Tigers, 2016 against the , 2019 against the Northern Pride, and most recently in 2025 with a 22–8 win over the Norths Devils at Kayo Stadium. These triumphs highlight the club's competitive edge in Queensland's premier outside the NRL. Additionally, the Bears have claimed three confirmed minor premierships, topping the regular-season ladder in 2003, 2004, and 2025, which underscores their consistent performance across seasons. In the Rugby League Gold Coast (RLGC) competitions, the Bears' men's A Grade side has won 10 premierships, establishing them as a dominant force in local . Key victories include the 1979 grand final, where they overcame strong opposition to claim their first major local title, followed by successes in 1982, 1995, 1999, 2000, 2006, 2012, 2017, 2019, and 2021, with the latter featuring a 26–6 victory over the Tugun Seahawks. These titles reflect the club's deep roots in Gold Coast since the late . The reserve grade team has also contributed to the club's legacy, securing premierships in 1982 and 2006, while earlier successes include a 1949 B Grade title that marked an early milestone in the club's history. The women's program has been particularly dominant, with the Bears claiming seven QRL Women's (QRLW) premierships, including a four-peat from 2015 to 2018 in the Women's Division 1 competition, followed by titles in 2020, 2021, and 2023, where they defeated the in the BMD Premiership to secure their seventh crown. These achievements, spanning both SEQ and statewide formats, demonstrate the program's rapid rise and sustained excellence in women's . They reached the 2025 BMD Premiership but fell short against the . At the club level, the Bears have won multiple RLGC Club Championships, recognizing overall performance across senior and junior grades, with victories in 2006, 2011, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2017, and 2024, the latter earning them statewide accolades as well for excellence across QRL competitions. In the national sphere, the 2025 Cup-winning side represented the club in the , reaching the final but finishing as runners-up with a 50–20 loss to the team at Accor Stadium. This appearance marked their third in the competition, emphasizing their growing stature beyond .

Individual records

Shane O'Flanagan holds the club record for the most appearances, having played 201 games for the Burleigh Bears across the 1990s and 2000s. Reggie Cressbrook is the all-time leading try scorer for the Bears with 69 tries during his tenure in the Queensland Cup. His standout seasons included multiple double-digit try hauls, contributing significantly to the club's 2003 and 2004 premiership campaigns. Cressbrook also leads in career points with 964, amassed primarily through his try-scoring prowess and reliable goal-kicking, where he converted a substantial portion of the Bears' tries during his era. In single-match performances, Khan Ahwang recorded the highest individual points tally in a Queensland Cup game for the Bears with 20 points against the in 2014. For tries in a match, players like Greg Bourke achieved notable hauls, though exact club records emphasize team contributions in high-scoring wins such as the 2002 fixture against Logan Scorpions. In junior ranks, Coby Black set a remarkable youth benchmark with 46 points, including multiple tries, in a 2024 Cup rout of the Wide Bay Bulls. In the women's BMD Premiership, Zahara Temara emerged as the leading points scorer for the Burleigh Bears during their 2023 premiership-winning season, earning accolades for her kicking accuracy and playmaking. Key contributors like Tazmin Gray and Sienna Laing added vital tries in the grand final victory over , underscoring the team's scoring depth.

Players and Staff

Notable former players

The Burleigh Bears have produced several players who progressed to the (NRL) and representative honors, beginning with early talents from their Gold Coast era. captained the 1979 premiership-winning team under coach Eric Lilley, leading the club to its first title in decades before advancing to Brothers and earning selection for Queensland Country in 1979. His leadership exemplified the Bears' role in developing local players for higher competitions like the Rugby League. In the modern Queensland Cup era, Shane O'Flanagan stands as a club icon, playing 201 games primarily in the 1990s and 2000s and representing Queensland Country in 1981. He scored the match-winning try in the 2004 Gold Coast Group grand final, securing a 22-18 victory over Brothers and breaking a long drought for the Bears. Several Bears players have transitioned successfully to the NRL via pathways with the Gold Coast Titans and . debuted in the with Burleigh in the early 2000s before a distinguished NRL career spanning over 300 games with the Titans, , and Dragons, including multiple appearances for . featured prominently for the Bears in 2019, earning the Medal as the competition's best player with exceptional game management, prior to NRL stints with the Titans, Raiders, and . Luke Page, a powerful forward, debuted in the NRL with the Titans and before returning to captain Burleigh to the 2019 Intrust Super Cup premiership. In women's rugby league, the Bears have nurtured leaders during the QRL Women's Premiership's formative years. Karina Brown made her senior debut with Burleigh in 2012, contributing to multiple premierships including the 2014 SEQ Women's grand final win, before captaining NRLW teams with the Roosters, Broncos, and Titans, and representing and . Hailee-Jay Maunsell emerged from Burleigh's program to play for the Titans in their inaugural 2023 NRLW season, showcasing the club's feeder role for elite women's talent.

Current coaching staff

The current of the Burleigh Bears is , who was promoted to the role ahead of the 2023 season after serving as an assistant coach for the club since 2021. , a former professional winger, played his entire 14-year NRL career with the from 1999 to 2012, appearing in 264 first-grade matches and scoring 124 tries, a club record at the time of his retirement. Following his playing days, he began coaching with the Eels as a transitional and under-20s coach from 2014 to 2017 before joining the Gold Coast Titans as an assistant coach in 2018 and serving as interim in 2019. Under Burt's leadership, the Bears secured the 2025 Hostplus Cup premiership with a 22–8 grand final victory over the Norths Devils, marking the club's first title since 2019 and the first of Burt's head coaching tenure. Burt's coaching philosophy centers on a disciplined, high-tempo style that balances strong defensive structures with dynamic attacking play, while placing a strong emphasis on youth development and fostering individual player growth to build a sustainable pathway to higher levels. This approach has been instrumental in integrating young talents from the club's pathways programs into the senior squad, contributing to the Bears' success in the 2025 season. The Bears' coaching structure includes assistant coaches specializing in key areas such as defense and attack to support Burt's vision, though specific personnel details for 2025 reflect ongoing evolution tied to the club's affiliations. As an affiliate partner of the since 2024 through 2026, the Bears benefit from shared high-performance resources, including strength and conditioning experts and medical support staff from the Broncos' network, which enhances player preparation and injury management. This collaboration has been pivotal in maintaining competitive depth and aiding the team's 2025 premiership campaign.

References

  1. https://www.burleighbearsrlfc.com.au/about/club-history/
  2. https://www.qrl.com.au/clubs/burleigh-bears/
  3. https://www.qrl.com.au/news/2025/09/28/hostplus-cup-match-report-burleigh-bears-22-def.-norths-devils-8/
  4. https://www.facebook.com/burleighbearsrugbyleague/posts/1377851731013008
  5. https://burleighleagues.com.au/club-history/
  6. https://www.goldcoastbulletin.com.au/sport/local-league/rlgc-transfer-centre-rugby-league-gold-coast-top-point-scorer-jack-rogers-joins-the-tugun-seahawks/live-coverage/b8db1b8a7c9bb35734519981089ea414
  7. https://www.theroar.com.au/2017/09/12/much-ownership-talk-can-gold-coast-bear/
  8. https://logos.fandom.com/wiki/Burleigh_Bears
  9. https://www.gchaveyoursay.com.au/pizzeypark
  10. https://scoop.com.au/places/pizzey-park/
  11. https://www.burleighbearsrlfc.com.au/game-day/bob-singh-oval/
  12. https://www.goldcoast.qld.gov.au/Things-to-do/Parks-gardens-reserves/Park-Finder/Pizzey-Park
  13. https://burleighbeachdesigns.com.au/projects/burleigh-leagues-change
  14. https://www.goldcoast.qld.gov.au/Council/City-news/Pizzey-Park-Master-Plan
  15. https://www.goldcoast.qld.gov.au/Services/Projects-works/Pizzey-Park-Master-Plan
  16. https://www.burleighbearsjuniors.com.au/sponsors-1
  17. https://www.instagram.com/burleighbearsjuniors/
  18. https://www.nrl.com/news/2024/03/09/broncos-win-shows-cup-depth-as-queensland-clubs-choose-new-dance-partners/
  19. https://www.broncos.com.au/news/2023/07/07/burleigh-bears-join-broncos-as-affiliate-club-for-2024-26/
  20. https://www.sportingnews.com/au/rugby-league/news/takitau-mapapalangi-nrl-opportunity-broncos-2026/4171e3273bb7f7c21cec42fd
  21. https://www.burleighbearsrlfc.com.au/burleigh-bears-new-tafe-at-school-program/
  22. https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/qld-cup-2025/grand-final/burleigh-bears-vs-norths-devils/summary.html
  23. https://www.goldcoastbulletin.com.au/sport/local-sport/how-the-burleigh-bears-clawed-their-way-to-the-top/news-story/fd0827425cded7f81700658e4d0b01cb
  24. https://www.qrl.com.au/news/2019/08/16/bears-to-celebrate-1979-and-1999-premiership-teams/
  25. https://maxmoments.blog/2022/12/30/1588/
  26. https://rlgc.com.au/about/history/
  27. https://stevericketts.com.au/2020/01/14/history-of-rugby-league-on-the-gold-coast-a-story-of-resilience-and-achievement/
  28. https://goldcoastbulletin.com.au/sport/local-sport/how-the-burleigh-bears-clawed-their-way-to-the-top/news-story/fd0827425cded7f81700658e4d0b01cb
  29. https://www.burleighbearsrlfc.com.au/news/2024/annual-report/
  30. https://www.qrl.com.au/draw/qrl-womens-premiership/2025/grand-final/game-1/
  31. https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/qld-cup-1997/burleigh/summary.html
  32. https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/qld-cup-1999/grand-final/burleigh-bears-vs-redcliffe-dolphins/summary.html
  33. https://www.titans.com.au/news/2019/12/05/burleigh-and-tweed-to-remain-as-titans-feeder-clubs/
  34. https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/qld-cup-2016/grand-final/burleigh-bears-vs-redcliffe-dolphins/summary.html
  35. https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/qld-cup-2019/grand-final/wynnum-manly-seagulls-vs-burleigh-bears/summary.html
  36. https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/qld-cup-2025/burleigh/summary.html
  37. https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/qld-cup-2022/burleigh/summary.html
  38. https://www.qrl.com.au/ladder/?competition=114&season=2023
  39. https://www.qrl.com.au/ladder/?competition=114&season=2025
  40. https://www.zerotackle.com/titans-affiliate-side-officially-sever-ties-align-with-another-club-159015/
  41. https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/qld-cup-2003/grand-final/redcliffe-dolphins-vs-burleigh-bears/summary.html
  42. https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/qld-cup-2004/grand-final/burleigh-bears-vs-easts-tigers/summary.html
  43. https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/qld-cup-2005/grand-final/north-queensland-young-guns-vs-burleigh-bears/summary.html
  44. https://www.qrl.com.au/news/2023/05/13/burleigh-bears-claim-historic-bmd-premiership-grand-final-victory/
  45. https://www.qrl.com.au/draw/qrl-womens-premiership/2023/grand-final/bears-v-wm-seagulls/
  46. https://www.playrugbyleague.com/Competitions/Competition/2024-rlgc--earth-fleet-cup-u20s-50248164
  47. https://issuu.com/burleighbearsgroup/docs/bb_agmreport2024_a4_print
  48. https://www.qrl.com.au/news/2025/09/29/grand-final-highlights-bears-v-devils/
  49. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2003-08-25/bears-maul-seagulls-to-win-minor-premiership/1469632
  50. https://www.nrl.com/news/2025/10/04/roger-that-bears-broncos-pull-double-shift-for-grand-final-day/
  51. https://www.qrl.com.au/news/2019/09/22/bears-complete-dominant-gold-coast-a-grade-season/
  52. https://www.goldcoastbulletin.com.au/sport/rugby-league-gold-coast-grand-finals-nerang-roosters-v-helensvale-hornets/news-story/c755859348dc7c9ec905b4a718fac914
  53. https://www.qrl.com.au/news/2017/09/18/burleigh-complete-three-peat/
  54. https://leagueunlimited.com/news/leagueunlimited-qrl-womens-teams-2025-grand-final/
  55. https://www.facebook.com/burleighbearsrugbyleague/posts/we-are-thrilled-to-announce-that-at-the-recent-qrl-awards-the-burleigh-bears-wen/1068004625331055/
  56. https://www.warriors.kiwi/news/2025/10/05/match-report-putting-an-exclamation-mark-on-superb-campaign/
  57. https://www.burleighbearsrlfc.com.au/about/halloffame/
  58. https://www.qrl.com.au/news/2019/03/09/burleigh-bears-to-notch-up-500-intrust-super-cup-games/
  59. https://www.nrl.com/news/2014/03/23/michaels-magic-inspires-bears-win/
  60. https://www.wikiwand.com/en/articles/List_of_Queensland_Cup_records
  61. https://www.news.com.au/sport/nrl/broncos-teen-freak-blows-minds-scores-46-points-in-rugby-league-massacre/news-story/fb111e34a39d52825c5d20abde11698c
  62. https://www.qrl.com.au/news/2023/09/15/queensland-rugby-league-celebrates-2023-award-winners/
  63. https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/players/peter-mcnamara/summary.html
  64. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2004-09-20/top-bears-defence-secures-grand-final-win/554504
  65. https://couriermail.com.au/news/queensland/darius-boyd-nrl-stars-pain-about-not-knowing-who-is-father-is/news-story/bc59091afe79587c8e9b4930b805c2f8
  66. https://www.qrl.com.au/news/2019/11/21/2019-year-in-review-burleigh-bears/
  67. https://www.qrl.com.au/news/2019/09/27/the-wise-ways-of-burleigh-half-jamal-fogarty/
  68. https://www.qrl.com.au/news/2019/09/29/brilliant-burleigh-power-over-seagulls-to-claim-cup/
  69. https://www.qrl.com.au/news/2015/11/18/burleigh-bears-gains-and-losses/
  70. https://www.qrl.com.au/players/qrl-womens-premiership/wynnum-manly-seagulls/karina-brown/
  71. https://www.keynoteentertainment.com.au/speakers/popular/karina-brown
  72. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-02-26/titans-first-women-game-inspires-new-generation/100851740
  73. https://www.qrl.com.au/news/2023/02/01/new-cup-coaches-of-2023-burt-at-bears/
  74. https://www.1eyedeel.com/forum/topics/luke-burt-leads-burleigh-bears-to-q-cup-title
Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.