Queensland Wheelchair Rugby League (QWRL) is the governing body for wheelchair rugby league in Queensland, Australia. Our mission is to champion inclusivity, foster teamwork, and promote sportsmanship by providing opportunities for everyone to engage in this dynamic and inclusive sport. By supporting and participating in QWRL events, matches, and initiatives, you contribute to the growth of wheelchair rugby league while building a diverse and welcoming community that values resilience, mutual respect, and equal opportunities.
Our Objectives
Accessibility
QWRL is dedicated to making wheelchair rugby league accessible to individuals of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. Whether you're new to the sport or a seasoned player, everyone is welcome.
Inclusion
We are committed to creating an environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to participate fully in the sport, breaking down barriers and celebrating diversity.
Athlete Development
QWRL supports athletes by offering training, coaching, and development opportunities, helping them hone their skills, achieve their potential, and succeed on and off the field.
Community Engagement
We actively engage with communities across Queensland to raise awareness about wheelchair rugby league, promote disability inclusion, and encourage positive attitudes toward individuals with disabilities.
Competition
QWRL organizes and participates in competitions at the local, regional, and national levels. These events provide athletes with platforms to showcase their talents and represent Queensland proudly.
Advocacy
QWRL works tirelessly to remove barriers to participation, improve access to resources, and promote equal opportunities for individuals with disabilities in sports and beyond.
Our Activities
Training and Development: We conduct training sessions, clinics, and camps for athletes of all skill levels to enhance their abilities and confidence.
Competition Facilitation: QWRL supports participation in local club competitions and organizes representative tournaments, including state and national-level events.
Community Outreach: Collaborating with schools, community centers, and disability organizations, we introduce wheelchair rugby league to new participants and foster inclusivity.
Promotion and Fundraising: We host events, fundraisers, and awareness campaigns to engage the wider community and garner support for our mission.
Resource Provision: QWRL provides equipment, resources, and support services to athletes, coaches, and volunteers involved in our programs.
QWRL History
2015
Queensland Wheelchair Rugby League (QWRL) debuted on the national stage with the inaugural Interstate Challenge, marking the start of a fierce rivalry with New South Wales. The one-off match was played at the Eagles Sports Complex in Mansfield, Brisbane, where New South Wales claimed a dominant 49–4 victory.
2016
Queensland hosted the second Interstate Challenge at the Sleeman Sports Complex in Brisbane. The event expanded to a two-match series, but New South Wales again proved too strong, winning both games 84–0 and 90–6, solidifying their dominance in the early years of the competition.
2017
The competition returned to Brisbane in June, where the two-match series format was maintained. Despite the Queensland Maroons showing improved teamwork and effort, New South Wales remained unbeaten, retaining the title.
2018
The challenge reverted to a single-match format, played at the Quaycentre in Sydney Olympic Park. Despite Queensland’s growing talent pool, New South Wales secured a 54–18 victory on the same day as Game II of the 2018 State of Origin series for the able-bodied game.
2019
In a historic moment, the competition was rebranded as the Wheelchair State of Origin. Played on July 6 at the Quaycentre, New South Wales continued their dominance, defeating Queensland 52–4 in front of an estimated crowd of 1,000 spectators.
2020
The COVID-19 pandemic forced the cancellation of the competition, disrupting the annual showcase of state rivalry.
2021
After a pandemic-induced hiatus, the Interstate Challenge returned in January 2022, with the postponed 2021 match taking place at the Whitlam Leisure Centre in Liverpool. Queensland made history by securing their first-ever title with a thrilling 50–30 victory, breaking New South Wales’ winning streak.
2022
The Queensland Maroons carried their momentum into the State of Origin series, held in Townsville. In front of a passionate home crowd, Queensland won convincingly 49–24, marking their first back-to-back titles.
2023
Queensland’s dominance continued as they clinched their third consecutive title in the rebranded Interstate Challenge. The game was played on July 8 at the Whitlam Leisure Centre after a last-minute venue change. Queensland emerged victorious with a hard-fought 42–26 win, cementing their place as the leading state in wheelchair rugby league.
2024
The rivalry reached new heights as Queensland retained the title in a tightly contested match played on July 13 at the South Pine Sports Complex in the City of Moreton Bay. Queensland triumphed 42–36, securing their fourth consecutive victory and thrilling fans with a match that showcased the growth and competitive spirit of wheelchair rugby league.
A Tradition of Excellence
From the early years of New South Wales’ dominance to Queensland’s historic turnaround and recent streak of victories, the Interstate Challenge remains a cornerstone of wheelchair rugby league in Australia. Each match highlights the sport's inclusivity, competitive nature, and the incredible talent of players representing their states. As QWRL continues to develop, the rivalry grows stronger, inspiring players and fans alike.
Queensland Wheel of Origin Great (WOG) #
1. Darren Belling
2. Maxine Belling
3. James Hill
4. Adam Howarth
5. Daryl Hoyle
6. Ben Lodewikus
7. Matthew Lodewikus
8. Ben Noonan
9. Davin Bretherton
10. Shaun Harre
11. Rodney McPherson
12. Cory Mostran
13. Zachary Schumacher
14. Harley Walsh
15. Pete Arbuckle
16. Jeff Wright
17. Revoked
18. Aaron Ring
19. Giles Harris
20. Gage Ives
21. Bayley McKenna
22. Adam Tannock
23. Chris Robson
24. Daniel Anstey
25. Brett Bazley
26. Tyson Barry
27. Shannon Buxton
28. Dylan Gawthorne
29. Jack Kruger
*yet to debut
Players are presented with a WOG # once they have represented the Queensland Wheelchair Rugby League side. Players debuting in the same game will be given their WOG # consectively coinciding to the order of their onfield playing numbers.