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Redcliffe Set to Host Mal Meninga Cup Grand Final This Weekend

Kayo Stadium at Redcliffe will host the 2026 Mal Meninga Cup grand final, with the Wynnum Manly Seagulls taking on the Townsville Blackhawks in a 2.05pm kickoff that will showcase some of Queensland’s most exciting Under-19 pathway talent.

The decider brings two of the competition’s form sides to one of Queensland’s most passionate rugby league venues, with the 10,000-capacity stadium expected to draw a strong crowd from across the Redcliffe Peninsula and the broader Moreton Bay region. Kayo Stadium has been a regular host of Queensland Cup grand finals and major pathway fixtures, and Saturday’s final continues that tradition.

The Blackhawks earned their place in the decider with a hard-fought 20-18 win over the Redcliffe Dolphins at the same venue in the week prior, a result that stung the home side but showed the quality of the competition at this level.

Redcliffe pushed hard throughout, with Adam McSherry crossing for a try and landing all three of his conversions to keep the Dolphins in contention, but Townsville’s Archie Mesritz delivered a double and Taj Lateo sealed the win with a late try from five-eighth that proved the difference.

A stadium that knows how to deliver a grand final

Kayo Stadium, formally known as Dolphin Oval when it first opened in 1979, has hosted Queensland Cup grand finals in 2001, 2002, 2003, 2019, 2021 and 2022, as well as NRL games and NRLW matches in recent seasons. Significant upgrades between 2016 and 2020 brought the venue to NRL standard, with new grandstands on the western, eastern and northern ends lifting total capacity to approximately 10,000.

Kayo Stadium to host Mal Maninga Cup — Photo Credit: Kayo Stadium/Facebook

Broadcast-quality light towers installed in 2023 now make the stadium one of the most capable boutique rugby league venues in Australia, able to host night games, carnivals and major events to the same standard as metropolitan venues.

Saturday’s 2.05pm kickoff puts the final in the early afternoon window, giving families and footy fans across the Moreton Bay region a clear run to the ground after a morning at the beach.

What brought the two sides to this point

Wynnum Manly claimed their semi-final berth with a hard-fought 22-14 win over the Tweed Seagulls. Winger Bond Bradley spearheaded the attack with a clinical hat-trick for the Bayside outfit. Harrison Bath crossed for another, while Payton Gifford and Bailen Noy shared the goal-kicking duties, slotting three conversions between them to secure the result.

Townsville’s path was tighter. The Blackhawks beat Redcliffe 20-18 in the elimination semi, with Mesritz’ double and tries to Ashyr Kelso, Reweti Ngarimu and Lateo enough to hold off a Dolphins side that competed fiercely at home. The narrow margin underlines how closely matched the competition has been across the season and sets up a grand final that could go either way.

How to watch

Saturday’s Mal Meninga Cup grand final kicks off at 2.05pm at Kayo Stadium, Redcliffe, on 9 May 2026. Full grand final action streams live on Qplus, presented by National Storage, at qplus.tv.

Published 6-May-2026

Wylei Parker Signs Dolphins Junior Development Deal, Forging His Own Path Beyond Broncos Legend Dad

Corey Parker / Facebook

The Redcliffe-based Dolphins have landed 14-year-old Wylei Parker on a three-year development deal, marking a significant win in the battle for emerging talent against their Brisbane rivals.

Wylei is the son of Brisbane Broncos champion Corey Parker, who played 347 games for the Red Hill club and helped them win the 2006 premiership. The teenager’s signature with the Moreton Bay team represents a notable shift in the local rugby league landscape, with the Dolphins securing a Parker despite his father’s legendary status at Lang Park.

Building Pathways From the Redcliffe Peninsula

The Dolphins beat the Gold Coast Titans and Canterbury Bulldogs to secure Wylei’s signature. The Broncos reportedly did not express interest in the son of their club legend, despite Corey Parker ranking as the second-highest appearance maker in Brisbane’s history behind only Darren Lockyer.

Wylei has transformed from a halfback into a hooker and models his game on Melbourne Storm and Queensland Maroons star Harry Grant. At 14 years old turning 15, he enters the age bracket where clubs can formally contract promising juniors as part of their academy systems.

Wylei Parker, newest member of the Redcliffe Dolphins — *Photo Credit: Corey Parker / Facebook*

The development deal involves two training sessions per month, tours and structured pathways designed to nurture young talent while ensuring players can still enjoy their adolescent years. Wylei will be instilled as part of the Dolphins academy system, which operates from Kayo Stadium in Redcliffe alongside the club’s NRL operations.

Redcliffe’s Growing Win for Moreton Bay’s NRL Presence

The signing reinforces the Dolphins’ strategy of building their junior development programs across the Redcliffe Peninsula, northern Brisbane suburbs and the broader Moreton Bay region. Since entering the NRL in 2023, the club has worked to establish pathways that compete directly with the Broncos for local talent.

Corey Parker announced the news on social media, expressing pride in his son’s achievement. The former Broncos captain described the signing as opening the door to an amazing opportunity backed by hard work, commitment and belief.

He also spoke about the signing on SEN radio recently, noting his excitement for his son’s journey while acknowledging the variables that come with teenage development in rugby league.

The former lock forward emphasised that the opportunity allows Wylei to be part of structured development while still maintaining balance as a young person.

The signing follows another high-profile father-son story in recent months, with Andrew Johns’ 16-year-old son Louis signing a development contract with the Sydney Roosters rather than his father’s former club, the Newcastle Knights.

Redcliffe’s Growing Academy System

The Dolphins organisation has invested heavily in development structures since being granted their NRL licence in October 2021. The club’s commitment to pathways was a central pillar of their successful bid over the Brisbane Firehawks and Brisbane Jets for the competition’s 17th licence.

Kayo Stadium serves as both the training and administration base for the NRL team while hosting select home games alongside the club’s primary venue at Suncorp Stadium. The 10,000-capacity stadium underwent significant upgrades between 2015 and 2020 to support the Dolphins’ NRL ambitions and now houses comprehensive academy facilities.

*Photo Credit: Aek Fisher / Google Maps*

The Redcliffe Dolphins, who continue to compete separately in the Queensland Cup, have produced numerous representative players throughout their 75-year history, including rugby league legends Trevor Harken and Arthur Beetson.

Wylei Parker’s signing represents another step in the Dolphins’ efforts to establish themselves as a legitimate pathway option for emerging talent in South East Queensland, competing directly with the Broncos despite the weight of family legacy pulling in the opposite direction.

Published 08-February-2026. Updated 14-February-2026.

Youth Movement: Dolphins Eye Forward Pack Transition as Veterans’ Contracts Wind Down

In a pivotal moment for the Dolphins’ future, emerging forwards Ryan Jackson and Michael Waqa are preparing to showcase their credentials in the upcoming season as the club carefully navigates its long-term succession strategy in the forward pack.

Read: Redcliffe and Surrounding Areas Set for Infrastructure Improvements

Next Generation Steps Up for the Dolphins

The timing couldn’t be more crucial for the young prospects. With veterans Mark Nicholls (35), Felise Kaufusi (32), and Kenny Bromwich (33) approaching the end of their contracts, and marquee prop Thomas Flegler sidelined with nerve damage in his shoulder, the door has opened for fresh talent to emerge.

Jackson brings a wealth of experience at the development level, having compiled 34 games across three seasons with Redcliffe and the Capras. His consistent performances, averaging 70 running metres and 15 tackles per game, demonstrate the kind of reliability the Dolphins will need in their forward rotation.

Waqa has already shown flashes of brilliance that hint at his potential impact. His standout performance against the Papua New Guinea Hunters, where he accumulated 137 metres and five tackle busts in just 42 minutes, coupled with his impressive defensive record of missing only two tackles from 47 attempts last season, suggests he could be ready for the next step.

Development Takes Time

Dolphins assistant coach Rory Kostjasyn maintains a measured approach to the young forwards’ development. “Forwards, especially front rowers, don’t mature until their mid-20s,” he notes, emphasising the importance of patience in their progression.

The coaching staff’s focus remains on translating pre-season effort into on-field results. “They’ve worked really hard in any area we’ve asked of them,” Kostjasyn explains. “It’s time for them to go and get it done on the field.”

Flegler’s Recovery Shapes Planning

While immediate NRL debuts seem unlikely for Jackson and Waqa, Thomas Flegler’s ongoing shoulder rehabilitation could accelerate their timeline. The club remains committed to Flegler’s recovery, with CEO Terry Reader confirming they’re not yet considering seeking financial relief for his position.

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“We’ll be giving Fleggy every possible chance to get on the field,” Reader emphasises, noting that the situation will be reassessed at the 12-month mark since his initial injury in round four last year.

Published 14-February-2025

Building a Legacy: Dolphins Commit to Youth Talent in Groundbreaking League

In a landmark development that reinforces the Dolphins’ commitment to nurturing local talent, the NRL’s newest franchise is set to play a pivotal role in an innovative youth competition alongside Queensland’s established clubs.

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Dolphins Strengthen Development Pipeline

The collaboration between the NRL Dolphins and their Queensland rivals—the Brisbane Broncos, North Queensland Cowboys, and Gold Coast Titans—represents a significant step forward for the club. For supporters in the Moreton Bay region, this competition offers an exciting opportunity to watch emerging talent don the Dolphins’ colours while taking part in a crucial development program.

The timing is ideal, as the club continues to establish its long-term development structures. By providing a platform for identifying and refining young players, the competition ensures a sustainable future built on home-grown talent.

Bridging the Development Gap

Scheduled to commence in May, after the Mal Meninga Cup concludes, the nine-week competition addresses a critical gap in the development pathway. It offers valuable high-level experience for young Dolphins prospects who may not yet be ready for Queensland Cup action with the Redcliffe Dolphins.

The round-robin format will see the Dolphins face each of their Queensland rivals twice. Some games could even serve as curtain-raisers to NRL fixtures, giving fans additional opportunities to support their club’s future stars while experiencing the development of promising young players firsthand.

Strategic Advantage for 2026

This initiative arrives at a crucial moment for the Dolphins, particularly with the NRL planning to reintroduce the National Youth Competition as an under-21s league in 2026. The new competition provides the club with an opportunity to build a robust junior development system from the ground up, unlike their more established Queensland counterparts. By taking a proactive approach now, the Dolphins will be well-positioned when the national competition launches, having already laid strong foundations for their youth program.

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The competition particularly resonates with the Dolphins’ commitment to their local community. Young players from the Moreton Bay region and surrounding areas will have a clearer pathway to professional rugby league without leaving their home region, strengthening the bond between the club and its grassroots supporters.

Published 10-February-2025

Redcliffe’s Hope: Jamayne Isaako Eyes Historic Finals Appearance

After an outstanding 2024 campaign in which he amassed 223 points, Jamayne Isaako stands poised to help guide the NRL Dolphins towards their first final series appearance.

The 28-year-old point-scoring sensation speaks with quiet confidence about the season ahead, even as the club navigates significant leadership changes.

Read: Redcliffe Leads the Way in New Developments: Key Projects to Watch in 2025

Jamayne Isaako Leads by Example

Though he has ruled himself out of the captaincy race, Isaako’s influence on the team continues to grow. “What I bring to the team is a lot of energy,” he explains after a gruelling preseason session in Redcliffe’s notorious January humidity. “Being a little bit of an older head in the team now, I’m just bringing the experience I have to some of the young blokes.”

His 12 tries and 87 goals in 2024 cemented him as one of the competition’s most reliable performers. However, personal statistics are not his primary focus for 2025. He remains determined to help the team reach the finals, a goal he is especially motivated by after last season’s narrow loss to Newcastle that left them outside of a postseason spot.

Embracing Change Under Woolf

The transition from Wayne Bennett to Kristian Woolf as head coach has infused fresh energy into the Dolphins’ preseason. Now entering his tenth NRL season, Isaako has embraced the change, finding Woolf’s coaching style engaging and effective. He noted the competitive edge shared by both mentors, while also recognising the fresh perspective Woolf brings to the team.

With experience under both coaches, Isaako offers unique insight into the club’s evolution. “I see a lot of similarities in the way he coaches with Wayne. I’m interested to see how the season unfolds.”

While Isaako watches the captaincy race with interest and supports Tom Gilbert’s leadership potential, he remains focused on his own role. His approach to the upcoming season is unchanged, as he is determined to perform consistently and contribute to the team as he has over the past two years.

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With preseason trials beginning against the Capras in Gladstone on 8 February, Isaako’s ambitions align with those of Redcliffe fans: to see the Dolphins secure their first finals berth. His journey from prolific point-scorer to experienced leader could be the catalyst the club needs to achieve this historic milestone.

Published 20-January-2025

The Dolphins Roundup: Phins Lock in Donoghoe, Lemuelu While Gearing Up for Fan-Friendly 2025

In a strong show of faith in their developing roster, the Dolphins have secured the futures of two key players ahead of the 2025 NRL season, while also announcing plans to kick off the new year with their highly anticipated Fan Fest at Kayo Stadium.

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Rising stars commit to growing club

The Redcliffe outfit continues to build stability with Fijian international Kurt Donoghoe extending his stay until the end of 2025. Donoghoe, a standout ever since the Dolphins’ inaugural NRL match, joined in 2023 on a train-and-trial contract and has since excelled, appearing in 16 NRL games and representing Fiji five times at the international level. The versatile playmaker’s ability to cover multiple positions across the halves, backline, and hooker roles adds valuable depth to the squad.

Dolphins head of academy and Fijian assistant coach Matt Hartigan praised Donoghoe’s influence on the team, stating, “When he plays direct, and he gets the ball in his hands, he’s got the creativity to make the guys around him look good.”

In another significant retention, dynamic back-rower Connelly Lemuelu has committed to the club until the end of 2026. Since joining for the inaugural season, Lemuelu has become a mainstay in the side, notching up 41 appearances over two years. The 25-year-old forms part of an impressive young forward pack alongside Kulikefu Finefeuaki, Oryn Keeley, and James Walsh.

Newly appointed head coach Kristian Woolf expressed his enthusiasm about Lemuelu’s extension, seeing it as a crucial piece in the club’s long-term planning. “Connelly is the type of person we want to continue to build the club around,” Woolf said. “I see him as an elite talent with his best football still ahead of him.”

Read: No Fireworks Along Redcliffe Foreshore This New Year’s Eve

Dolphins Fan Fest

Dolphins faithful will have their first chance to meet the strengthened 2025 squad at the upcoming Dolphins Fan Fest. The free, family-friendly event will take place at Kayo Stadium on Saturday, 1 February, from 8:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

The event will give locals unique access to their sporting heroes, with activities including dressing room tours, touch football games for children, and autograph sessions with players. The wheelchair-accessible celebration will also feature face painting, a jumping castle, and the first opportunity to purchase 2025 merchandise.

Published 20-December-2024

Tom Opacic Returns: Redcliffe’s Homegrown Talent Back on Familiar Ground

In a heartwarming twist for local rugby league fans, Redcliffe-born Tom Opacic has returned to the Dolphins’ training ground, sparking excitement about a possible homecoming for the talented centre.

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“Look who’s back”

The Dolphins’ social media channels buzzed with excitement as they shared images of the 30-year-old participating in training sessions. For many long-time supporters, this marks a full-circle moment as Opacic returns to the club where his rugby league journey began.

Tom Opacic : career journey

Opacic’s professional career has taken him across multiple prestigious clubs since his NRL debut with the Brisbane Broncos in 2016. After three seasons with the Broncos, he moved to the North Queensland Cowboys in 2019 and then joined the Parramatta Eels in 2021. Most recently, he transitioned to England’s Super League with Hull Kingston Rovers in 2023.

Despite signing a contract extension that would have kept him at Hull KR until the end of 2025, Opacic departed the English club at the conclusion of the 2024 season. His exit opened opportunities for both parties, with Hull KR securing Rhyse Martin as his replacement.

Future prospects

While no official signing has been announced, Opacic’s presence at training suggests potential involvement with the Redcliffe Dolphins in the 2025 Queensland Cup season. As the feeder club for the Dolphins NRL outfit, this arrangement could also serve as a pathway back to the top flight, particularly with one position remaining in the NRL squad’s top 30.

However, competition for spots remains fierce, especially in the centres where the NRL side boasts the formidable pairing of Jake Averillo and Herbie Farnworth. Nevertheless, Opacic’s experience across multiple professional environments could prove valuable for both the Queensland Cup side and as depth for the NRL squad.

Read: Industry-Standard Training Takes Off at Redcliffe State High School

For the Redcliffe faithful, Opacic’s return is more than just a professional move; it’s a celebration of a local hero coming full circle, promising an exciting future for the club and its fans alike.

Published 13-December-2024

The Dolphins Roundup: Niu Heads to the UK, Tabuai-Fidow Joins Kangaroos

As the 2025 preseason approaches, the Dolphins are juggling critical decisions on contracts, injury management, player moves, and international commitments.

Read: The Dolphins Roundup: Phins Land Dally M Honours and Powerhouse Recruits

Key negotiations for 2025

As Fox Sports reports, the club faces the challenge of securing key players before rival clubs make their moves. Second-rower Connelly Lemuelu, whose standout performances have been pivotal this season, is likely to top the list for re-signing, with his impressive form attracting attention across the NRL. Sean O’Sullivan’s strong finish to the season in the halves positions him as another priority for retention.

The Dolphins are also weighing contract options for experienced players Felise Kaufusi, Kenny Bromwich, and Mark Nicholls, who each bring veteran leadership to the squad. With Kaufusi potentially entering free agency after 1 November, the team risks losing his presence to competitors if a deal isn’t secured soon.

Dolphins players on the mend

The Dolphins’ medical staff have been diligently working to address various injuries within the squad. Jeremy Marshall-King and Kenny Bromwich have both undergone minor surgeries—Marshall-King on his knee and Bromwich on his elbow.

Lemuelu faces a significant challenge as he recovers from shoulder reconstruction surgery. Fullback Trai Fuller’s situation is more long-term following a successful knee reconstruction, while Tom Gilbert is steadily progressing in his recovery from an ACL injury.

Tesi Niu heads to the Super League

Tesi Niu’s confirmed move to the Leigh Leopards in the Super League for 2025 marks a pivotal change for the Dolphins’ backline. After making 17 appearances for the club in 2023, Niu faced growing competition in the backline with the arrivals of Herbie Farnworth and Jake Averillo, making an overseas opportunity all the more appealing.

Reflecting on his decision after winning the QLD Cup and the NRL State Championship, Niu told Zero Tackle, “I’m leaving for the UK, and to finish off like this, I couldn’t have asked for a better end.”

Leigh Journal captured the excitement surrounding Niu’s arrival, quoting Leopards’ head of rugby Chris Chester: “Tesi has played for two quality teams in the NRL… He’s a big, strong, athletic, and powerful rugby player who will excite all our fans in 2025 and beyond.”

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Dolphins on duty for the Pacific Championships

The selection of several Dolphins players for international duty in the Pacific Championships highlights the squad’s depth and calibre. Kurt Donoghoe and Mason Teague will represent Fiji Bati and the Cook Islands, respectively, as the sole Dolphins players in their teams. Jamayne Isaako and Kodi Nikorima are set to play for defending Pacific champions New Zealand, while Isaiya Katoa, Felise Kaufusi, and 2025 recruit Kulikefu Finefeuiaki join the formidable Tongan side.

Fullback Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow’s selection for the green-and-gold cements his status as one of the NRL’s emerging stars. Hammer and the Kangaroos will first face Tonga on 18 October at Suncorp Stadium, followed by a match against New Zealand on 27 October in Christchurch.

Updated 25-October-2024

The Dolphins Roundup: Phins Land Dally M Honours and Powerhouse Recruits

Photo Credit: jack/Instagram

It’s been a momentous week for the Dolphins. Alongside dual Dally M award victories for Herbie Farnworth and Jack Bostock, the club has announced the additions of Origin prop Daniel Saifiti and promising outside back Max Feagai for 2025, as well as securing two key assistant coaches to join incoming head coach Kristian Woolf.

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Dolphins celebrate Dally M success

The Dolphins’ impressive sophomore campaign has been recognised at the Dally M Awards, with the club securing two prestigious honours. Herbie Farnworth claimed the Centre of the Year award, while Jack Bostock was named Rookie of the Year, marking a major achievement for the young winger.

Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow was also in contention for Fullback of the Year. He was ultimately edged out by Roosters’ James Tedesco, rounding out a strong showing for the club with three nominees.

Origin prop Daniel Saifiti joins

In a major coup for the Dolphins, representative front-rower Daniel Saifiti will join the club from the Newcastle Knights. The 28-year-old veteran brings considerable experience to the forward pack, with 183 NRL games under his belt, seven State of Origin appearances for NSW, and international experience representing Fiji.

The signing reunites Saifiti with incoming head coach Kristian Woolf, his former mentor at the Knights. “He is a representative player, he is tough, aggressive, and a hard worker—all the things the Dolphins pride themselves on being,” Dolphins CEO Terry Reader said.

Alongside Saifiti, Knights assistant coach Rory Kostjasyn will also make the move north, adding valuable coaching expertise to the staff.

The Woolf pack grows

The Dolphins have further strengthened their squad by securing 23-year-old Max Feagai from the St George Illawarra Dragons. The young star joins a formidable lineup of outside backs, competing alongside the trio of Dally M nominees, as well as established players Jamayne Isaako and Trai Fuller.

Dragons assistant coach Ben Woolf will unite with his brother Kristian, who will take over the reins from Wayne Bennett.

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The new recruits will begin their Dolphins journey in November’s preseason, marking the start of an exciting chapter as the club builds toward 2025 with a reinforced playing and coaching roster.

Published 07-October-2024

Dolphins vs Devils: Redcliffe Seek Seventh Title Against Dominant Norths

As the Redcliffe Dolphins prepare for the 2024 Hostplus Cup grand final against the Norths Devils, it’s shaping up to be a battle between history and recent dominance. Dolphins vs Devils kick off 5:30 p.m. at Kayo Stadium.

Read: Dolphins vs Pride: Golden Point Drama Sees Redcliffe Secure Grand Final Spot

Clash of rival titans

The Dolphins, under the guidance of coach Ben Te’o, are eyeing their seventh Cup premiership in what will be their 14th grand final appearance. Standing in their way are the formidable Norths Devils, led by Dave Elliott, who are vying for their fourth Cup title in five tries.

Latrell Siegwalt’s rise has fuelled the Dolphins’ momentum, earning him individual accolades and boosting the team’s championship hopes.

Alongside Siegwalt, captain Max Bailey and key forward Josh Kerr are vital to Redcliffe’s ambitions. Their performances will be crucial in clinching the club’s first title since 2018.

Dolphins vs Devils

The Dolphins have the historical edge with 34 wins to Norths’ 19, but the Devils have excelled in finals matchups, holding a slight advantage with three wins to Redcliffe’s two. One of those losses came in the 2022 grand final, where Norths defended their premiership, denying Redcliffe their first title since 2018.

Earlier in this final series, Norths again beat Redcliffe in the elimination final, forcing the Dolphins to secure an extra win to reach this grand final showdown.

Despite recent setbacks against the Devils, the Dolphins will have the distinct advantage of playing the grand final on their home turf at Kayo Stadium, where they’ve claimed six premierships.

XXXX Queensland City versus Country

The grand final day will also feature XXXX Queensland City versus Country matches in both women’s and men’s categories, highlighting the strong connection between community rugby league and statewide competitions.

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As the Dolphins prepare for this crucial game, fans are eagerly anticipating a display of skill, determination, and passion that could lead to a historic seventh Cup premiership for their beloved team. Will the Dolphins extend their record with a seventh title, or will Norths narrow the gap with a fourth Cup?

Published 20-September-2024