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

Ben Te’o scaled incredible heights across rugby league and union, but his seven State of Origin appearances for Queensland remain among his proudest achievements. From a lung-burning debut in the 2012 decider at Suncorp Stadium to bonding with Maroons legends and lifting the 2014 NRL premiership, Te’o reflects on pressure, pride and what it means to represent Queensland.

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.

Former Origin Greats (FOGS) is proud to continue its partnership with the Confraternity Shield carnival in 2026, building on a successful first year of support in 2025.

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.

Steve Renouf’s State of Origin career began with a dream debut alongside his heroes and ended with a series win to remember. From running out behind Wally Lewis in 1991 to playing a key role in the famous 1994 “miracle try” and finishing under Wayne Bennett in 1998, Renouf reflects on the moments, mates and mentality that defined his Origin journey.

Jharal Yow Yeh’s unforgettable 2011 State of Origin series saw him shine on debut for Queensland, scoring in front of a packed Suncorp Stadium and helping the Maroons secure their sixth straight series win. Though injury cut short his career, Yow Yeh’s courage, pride, and legacy continue through his work developing the next generation of Broncos and Queensland talent.

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.

Born from a simple reunion idea in 1997, Former Origin Greats (FOGS) was created to honour Queensland’s State of Origin heroes who helped build the Maroon legacy. Founded by Alan Graham and the late Dick “Tosser” Turner, FOGS has evolved into a powerful organisation that supports past players, mentors communities, and inspires future generations to carry Queensland’s Origin spirit forward.

Three State of Origin legends Gene Miles, Gorden Tallis, and Sam Thaiday were inducted into the North Queensland Sports Hall of Fame, honoured for their sporting excellence and community impact beyond football.

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.

FOGS hosted coaching clinics, school visits, and a Gala Dinner in Rockhampton to support grassroots junior rugby league. Proceeds funded vital equipment for local clubs. The tour’s core aim was nurturing the game’s future in country Queensland, aligning with FOGS’ mission to strengthen community and inspire the next generation through rugby league.

The rugby league world was saddened to learn of the recent passing of former Queensland and Australian prop Sam Backo , at just 64 years...

NRL Imagery © Sam Backo is being remembered as a wonderful man and outstanding footballer who brought joy to all who knew him. Backo, a...