Norths has a history of bringing players from all parts of the rugby league world to Bishop Park for life as a Devil.
But the journey from Papua New Guinea’s western highlands to Nundah is rarely travelled.
Nixon Putt, 23, has done that in the off-season, leaving the PNG Hunters after two impressive seasons to try his hand with coach Rohan Smith’s Norths squad.
And the ironman backrower has made an impressive start to his Devils career.
Putt has been a popular addition to Bishop Park, earning his Devils debut in tomorrow’s season-opener against Burleigh Heads at Bishop Park.
Putt will start in the backrow, ready for his 47th Intrust Super Cup appearance after building a remarkable statistic at the Hunters.
Since he made his ISC debut in round 1, 2017, Putt hasn’t missed a minute of any game he’s played. He’s an 80-minute warrior who laps up his work and looks for more.
Putt runs arrow-straight in attack and defends with a style that has become known to his opponents. Google Putt’s name and you’ll quickly find a bone-rattling hit he put on Jarryd Hayne in an international match last year.
But Putt plays down any personal praise.
He’s noticed the differences between life in his homeland and Australia during his first few months in the country and feels welcome at his new club.
“There is a very welcoming spirit here,” Putt said. “I’m very happy to be a part of this Norths team and they already feel like a family to me.
Coach Smith initiated contact with Putt after watching his career at the Hunters, which included the memorable 2017 grand final victory.
His resume also include his appearances for the Kumuls and the Prime Minister’s XIII last October against the Australian PM’s XIII.
Smith said Putt had impressed the Devils squad during the pre-season.
“He’s hard-working and he’s shown he’s durable during his quality seasons at the Hunters,” Smith said.
“He’s made the decision to step out of his comfort zone and to move to a new country with new teammates. He’s doing that well and now he’s looking to grow and to expand his game.”
