Completing the Circle: Four-Time Premiership Champion Tamika Upton Set to Join the Brisbane Broncos

Tamika Upton’s pursuit of a premiership will take a new direction in 2025 as the outstanding fullback teams up with the Brisbane Broncos.

Newcastle has agreed to release the four-time premiership champion from the remaining three years of her contract, as she is eager to return closer to her family in Queensland.

Brisbane has emerged victorious in the battle to secure her talents, finalising a three-year deal which will keep the Dally M Medal winner at the club until 2027.

“I’m absolutely thrilled to be coming back home to my family and to the club where it all began for me, alongside the girls I started out with – it feels like a complete circle,” Upton expressed.

“Family is incredibly important to me, so being closer to them and my sister, who lives in Brisbane, means everything. Plus, it’s just a short flight back home to Rocky.”

“I’ve been following all the matches closely, and some of my close friends are still playing for the Broncos. I’ve even travelled to Sydney to watch their games live when I could; I’ve loved supporting them from afar.”

“Winning a third premiership with the Broncos would be absolutely amazing. I can’t wait to get back on the field.”

Upton’s prowess with the ball has made her a formidable opponent, as demonstrated by her seven tries, 13 try-assists and an average of 125 metres gained per match during the 2024 season.

At 27, she has been a consistent presence in both the Jillaroos and Queensland representative squads and has played a crucial role in leading the Knights to three consecutive finals campaigns.

Her arrival promises to strengthen the already potent attacking arsenal of the minor premiership winners.

Veteran playmaker Ali Brigginshaw, State of Origin champion Julia Robinson, and Olympic gold medallist Gayle Broughton are among the star names confirmed to represent the Broncos in 2025.

Upton’s exit from Newcastle has left Ben Jefferies with the challenging task of sourcing a new fullback from the available market.

Knights centre Shanice Parker has previously stepped into the No.1 jersey, but the club may also look to recruit a specialist for the role.

New Zealand international Botille Vette-Welsh, who participated in all nine games for the West Tigers in 2024, remains without a contract for the forthcoming season.