Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020
Gehamat Shibasaki will leave the Brisbane Broncos for the Perth Bears in 2027 after signing a two-year contract, giving the new National Rugby League club an Australian and Queensland State of Origin centre for its inaugural squad.
The Perth Bears also signed 191cm Fiji international and New South Wales Under-19 representative Jope Rauqe. The Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs pathway winger is viewed as a long-term outside-back option.
The recruitment continues a strong week for young rugby league talent after Javon Andrews completed his remarkable journey to an NRL debut with the Wests Tigers.
Gehamat Shibasaki Adds Big-Game Experience
Gehamat Shibasaki's deal is reportedly worth $500,000 per season. The 28-year-old rose from an $80,000 train-and-trial contract to represent Queensland and Australia before scoring twice in the Brisbane Broncos' grand final victory over the Melbourne Storm.
“I believe in Mal’s vision for the club and I’m excited about the opportunity to play for him and the club next year,” Gehamat Shibasaki said.
“The squad is shaping up well and I’m confident we can make an immediate impact.”
Jope Rauqe Joins Youth Plan
Jope Rauqe made his Fiji Test debut in 2025 and is regarded as one of the game's leading young outside backs. Perth Bears coach Mal Meninga believes his height, speed and scoring ability can translate to the NRL.
“He is tall, athletic and an absolute try scorer. He will bring energy and excitement to our squad and can make a real impact,” Mal Meninga said.
Jope Rauqe joins Mason Barber, Jasais Ah Kee and Apa Twidle among the club's young recruits. The official Perth Bears announcement confirms that 22 places in the inaugural top-30 squad are now filled.