Devils and Pickers Unite in Historic Pathways Partnership
Two clubs with more than 170 combined years of rugby league history have cemented a groundbreaking affiliate partnership to enhance player and coaching development across Queensland and New South Wales.
Norths Devils and Maitland Pickers have signed a three-year agreement to establish a robust pathway for male and female players, linking Brisbane’s Northern Suburbs with the Newcastle Hunter Region.
A Legacy of Excellence
The Devils, established in 1933, are one of Queensland’s oldest and most successful clubs. The Devils have secured 16 men’s first-grade premierships including three of the last four Queensland Cup titles. The Devils’ alumni includes Clive Churchill, Mark Graham, Mark Murray, Trevor Gillmeister, Cameron Smith, Billy Slater, Cooper Cronk, Greg Inglis, Matt Gillett and Herbie Farnworth.
The Maitland Pickers, originally known as the Maitland Pumpkin Pickers since their formation in 1955, have been a dominant force in the Newcastle Rugby League competition. Between 1954 and 1973, they featured in 12 out of 19 grand finals. This legacy of success has carried into the present day, with Maitland now regarded as one of the top clubs in regional rugby league. The Pickers achieved a remarkable three consecutive Newcastle Rugby League 1st Grade titles in 2022, 2023, and 2024, and secured State Presidents Cup Championships in 2020, 2022, and 2023.
The club has built a reputation for developing top-tier talent, with players like Greg Bird, Terry Pennowitz, Frank Threlfo, Robert Finch, Johnny Graves, Kel O’Shae, Luke Dorn, and Max King among its alumni. It has also been home to rugby league legends such as Merv Wright, Don ‘Bandy’ Adams, and David Trewella. Meanwhile, current players Brock Lamb and Sam Anderson are leading the charge for the next generation of stars.
Shared Vision for Development
The partnership allows the Devils and Pickers to maintain their development programs while collaborating to strengthen pathways for players, coaches, and staff. This includes shared learning opportunities, coaching exchanges, and structured development plans, all with a focus on holistic player growth.
Maitland Pickers Club President John Gorman expressed his enthusiasm for the alignment.
“The Maitland Pickers are proud to formalise a pathway relationship with Norths Devils,” Gorman said.
“Both clubs share strong values, aligning in their commitment to local juniors, strong affiliate club relationships, coach education, and whole-of-player development, which have contributed to the sustained success of both clubs in recent times. This alignment enhances opportunities for both male and female Maitland Pickers players from a pathway perspective, for those aspiring to play at a higher level.”
The Devils have expanded their presence in statewide competitions, fielding six teams across men’s and women’s programs. They also operate the Northern NRL Dolphins Junior Development Program, dedicated to identifying and nurturing emerging talent from Brisbane’s North.
Norths CEO Troy Rovelli highlighted the mutual respect and shared objectives that underpin the partnership.
“We’re thrilled to welcome the Pickers into the Devils family,” Rovelli said.
“This is about building meaningful pathways that extend beyond geography. We’re focused on collaborating with people who share our belief in player development, community, and culture. Maitland embodies those values.”
Looking Ahead
The agreement will undergo annual reviews to ensure it continues to evolve and deliver benefits for both clubs and the broader rugby league community.
With two heritage-rich clubs uniting under a shared vision, the future looks bright for aspiring players across both regions.
