Get ready for an exciting chapter in rugby league history! The Perth Bears are roaring to life, and their new logo is a testament to the sport's rich past and promising future.
In a highly anticipated move, the Perth Bears have unveiled their official logo for the 2027 season, marking their entry into the NRL as the 18th team. With 12 players already signed, the focus now shifts to the club's identity and its connection to the legendary North Sydney Bears.
But here's where it gets controversial... or rather, heartwarming. The new logo, designed by diehard North Sydney Bears fan and graphic artist Dave Carnovale, pays homage to the club's proud history while embracing the vibrant energy of Western Australia. It's a delicate balance, and one that has received praise from all corners.
Coach Mal Meninga, a rugby league icon himself, highlighted the club's unique bond: "This is one club, one family, spanning two coasts." He believes the new logo captures the essence of the Bears' legacy while infusing it with the spirit of WA.
North Sydney Bears legends Greg Florimo and Billy Moore couldn't agree more. Florimo exclaimed, "Great legacies evolve, and I'm thrilled to see our North Sydney Bear reimagined in WA." Moore added, "This logo represents every player, every supporter, and every moment that made the Bears who they are."
And this is the part most people miss... the emotional connection between a club and its fans. Mark Geyer, a former Western Reds star and Panthers premiership winner, understands this bond intimately. He said, "I've seen firsthand how rugby league thrives in the West, and I know what it means when WA rallies behind its team."
Bears CEO Anthony De Ceglie summed it up perfectly: "The Perth Bears are an exciting story, and we wanted to get it right. The birthplace and spiritual home of the 'Bears' will always be North Sydney, but we believe this logo represents a unity of both North Sydney fans and West Australian fans."
The logo itself is a work of art, a responsible evolution of the Bears' DNA. Designer Dave Carnovale explained, "It's a timeless symbol that bridges heritage with future-readiness. The Bears are embarking on an exciting journey in Perth, and I can't wait for my sons to see 'daddy's drawing' out in the world."
But the excitement doesn't end there. The Australian Rugby League Commission has also announced that the PNG Chiefs, set to join the NRL in 2028 as the 19th team, have appointed Lorna McPherson as their CEO. With over a decade of experience supporting rugby league's growth in Papua New Guinea, McPherson is well-equipped to lead the Chiefs into a new era.
Her impressive resume includes roles as director of the PNGRFL and the PNG Chiefs, as well as leading the growth of the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup and establishing the Santos Cup, an elite women's rugby league competition in PNG. McPherson's expertise in government relations, sales, distribution, retail, and marketing will be invaluable as the Chiefs build a strong administration.
Australian Rugby League Commission Chairman Peter V'landys AM praised the appointment, saying, "Lorna's track record speaks for itself. Her success in business and her deep connections to PNG and rugby league make her an ideal leader for the Chiefs."
So, as we eagerly await the 2027 season, let's celebrate the Perth Bears and their new logo, a symbol of unity and growth. And don't forget to keep an eye on the PNG Chiefs as they prepare to make their mark on the NRL stage. The future of rugby league is bright, and these expansion teams are leading the charge.
What do you think of the new logo? And how do you feel about the growth of rugby league in these regions? Let's discuss in the comments!
