The Perth Bears have confirmed arguably their biggest signing ahead of their debut season, poaching Broncos premiership winner and representative back Gehamat Shibasaki.
Shibasaki will depart Brisbane at season's end, who've waived the 10-day cooling-off period on the deal.
He'll join the WA-based club for what is understood to be a two-year deal worth $1 million.
The Bears have been confirming their squad ahead of entering the national competition in 2027.
Their eye had been on Shibasaki, whose career skyrocketed in 2025, for some time, NRL legend and inaugural Perth coach Mal Meninga said.
"He is a Test player who will add a new dimension to our backline. He is large, strong and has big game experience that will be invaluable.
"Most important of all, Gehamat has the character and personality that the Perth Bears are looking for.
"He has persevered for a long time and ultimately that led to success. I'm excited to welcome him and his family as part of our squad."
Shibasaki, 27, graduated from a train-and-trial deal with the Broncos ahead of last year, and turned that chance into State of Origin honours with Queensland, a premiership with the Broncos — where he scored twice in their grand final win, and earning a Test debut with Kangaroos during the Ashes.
He's made 68 NRL appearances across a unique career, originally starting with Brisbane before short stints at Newcastle, North Queensland and Souths, with a stint in Japanese rugby in-between returning to his original club.
The Broncos were reportedly interested in keeping him, but couldn't meet the reportedly understood figure put forward by the Bears.
His current club was reportedly prepared to offer $300,000 a year.
Shibasaki said it's an honour to be a part of the Bears' first season.
"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," the centre said.
"The squad is shaping up well and I'm confident we can make an immediate impact."
Broncos coach Michael Maguire said the club will lost an "elite" player but wished Shibasaki well for the future.
"Gehamat is now an elite player in the game and watching his growth as a footballer through 2025 was truly one of the standout experiences of my coaching career.
Ahead of his final months at Brisbane, their departing player thanked them for "reigniting my career from nothing to the heights of the game is a testament to the culture and DNA this club has built," he said.
"I've grown between the ears, matured as a footballer and learned more about myself through adversity.
"The challenges I faced only strengthened my resolve and confidence for the future.
"I am endlessly grateful to the club and to Madge for guiding me on this incredible journey."
Highly touted prospect Jope Rauqe will join Shibasaki in the west from 2027, having been lured away from Canterbury.
The Bears had previously locked in names like Scott Sorrensen, Nick Meaney, Liam Henry and Indigenous All Star Josh Curran.
