FOGS NEWS

Max Plath on his dream Origin debut and his journey to get there.

©NRL Imagery Thomas Flegler’s return to the State of Origin arena for Queensland is a tribute to self-belief, determination and immense resilience through tough times. When the 26-year-old prop runs out for the Maroons in the State of Origin series opener it will be 1071 days since he last represented his state back in 2023. Flegler’s absence for almost two years from the NRL arena due to a shoulder nerve issue tested the core of his being. It is no surprise that the Tully ba

Queensland’s 2006 State of Origin victory was more than a series win. It was a turning point that reshaped the game. Darren Lockyer reflects on Mal Meninga’s bold leadership, the pressure facing the Maroons’ senior players and the famous Melbourne decider that sparked an unprecedented eight straight series triumphs.

Andrew McCullough was Bali-bound when Kevin Walters called with news that changed everything — a Maroons debut. After years behind Cameron Smith, his patience paid off. The Dalby junior became FOG#194, tackling his heart out for Queensland and later returning to the Broncos to mentor the next generation.

Matt Gillett took the long road to the NRL, but once he earned his Queensland jersey he never let it go. Across 20 State of Origin appearances, he was never dropped — a testament to his grit and team-first mentality. Gillett reflects on debut nerves, Mal Meninga’s leadership, career-threatening injuries and the pride of representing the Maroons.

Queensland’s forward stocks have received a major lift with the return of Dolphins duo Thomas Flegler and Tom Gilbert from injury. With Cameron Munster welcoming the added depth and emerging contenders also pushing their claims, the Maroons’ pack is shaping as a powerful force ahead of the next Origin campaign.

Scott Sattler’s only State of Origin appearance in 2003 was more than just a game - it was a proud moment for him and his legendary father, John Sattler. In a twist of fate, that game also marked the end of his Maroons journey and the beginning of Cameron Smith’s iconic Origin career. Sattler shares the story of his call-up, making his dad proud, and the banter that lives on.

For Brent Tate, the FOGS Dick "Tosser" Turner Medal wasn’t just an honour - it was his driving force. After multiple ACL injuries, it was the goal of reaching 20 Origin games and earning the medal that kept him going. “It came with real gravitas,” he said. Tate’s story is one of resilience, loyalty, and what it truly means to wear the Maroons jersey with pride.

Wally Lewis had several titles of grandeur bestowed upon him in his pomp but none more fitting than “The Emperor of Lang Park”. Just ask NSW.

Ten years on, Queensland’s “Dad’s Army” still holds the record for the biggest State of Origin win — a 52–6 thrashing of NSW in the 2015 decider. It was Mal Meninga’s ninth series win, Justin Hodges’ final game, and Corey Parker’s crowning moment as Wally Lewis Medallist. Fuelled by critics and NSW’s premature dynasty talk, the Maroons responded with a masterclass. From Cameron Smith’s leadership to Thurston’s legendary sledge, it was a night of dominance, passion, and pride.

Cameron Munster and Tom Dearden have been honoured with two of Queensland’s most prestigious State of Origin awards. Munster received the FOGS Peter Jackson Memorial Award for his courageous leadership during Queensland’s 2-1 series win, while Dearden claimed the Ron McAuliffe Medal as player of the series.

NRL Imagery © Billy Slater 's achievement to win a third series with Queensland makes him unique in the history of State of Origin. No...

Queensland delivered a heroic Origin decider win in Sydney, sealing a 2-1 series victory that will go down in Maroons folklore. Captain Cameron Munster returned after the loss of his father to inspire one of the most courageous performances in Origin history. With breakout stars like Tom Dearden and debutant Gehamat Shibasaki rising to the occasion, the Maroons defied the odds to claim a historic triumph on enemy turf, their first series win with two games won on the road.

From no contract to the Origin arena - Gehamat Shibasaki’s rise is one of the most inspiring stories in Maroons history. Just six months ago, he was scraping through a Broncos train-and-trial deal. Now, after a standout season and relentless determination, the 27-year-old will make his Queensland debut in the Origin decider. His story is a powerful reminder of what hard work, belief, and opportunity can deliver.

Josh Papalii is set to play his final State of Origin game, answering Billy Slater’s call to bring experience and power to the Maroons' decider in Sydney. A veteran of 23 Origin matches and six series wins, Papalii returns with trademark humility and fire, just days after welcoming a new son. Dubbed the team’s “protector,” the Raiders front-rower says he doesn’t need to do anything special, just his job to help Queensland get the win.

Queensland are often at their best when written off and so it proved again in the stunning 26-24 win in Perth to keep the State of Origin series alive. Captain Cameron Munster, in his first game as skipper of the Maroons, was magnificent in a man of the match display. After the game he paid tribute to Paul Vautin’s ‘Neville Nobodies’ who won the 1995 series 3-0 against the odds.

At 32, Kurt Mann becomes the oldest Maroons debutant since Arthur Beetson in 1980. Known for his fearless versatility, Mann has played nearly every position on the field and now earns his shot in the No.14 jersey. After a standout season with the Bulldogs, the proud Winton product will finally live out his childhood dream, backed by coach Billy Slater and a community that turned a town water tower maroon in his honour.

Cameron Munster has vowed to do the legacy of the great Queensland leaders of the past proud after being named 16th captain of the Maroons.

Rugby league has given Former Origin Greats (FOGS) executive chairman Gene Miles everything in life which is why he was "honoured and humbled" to receive an OAM for services to the great game he treasures.

Queensland have selected three debutants for the State of Origin series opener as coach Billy Slater puts faith in the next crop of Maroons.