By Bill Crutcher
Portia Bourke is the latest Devil to land an NRLW deal, joining the Wests Tigers after her impressive two years at Norths.
Bourke becomes the latest player in the past two years to reach NRLW after a stint with the Devils.
The powerful edge forward will join some 2024 Devils teammates including Georgia Hannaway (Sharks), Jocelyn Kelleher (Roosters), Breanna Eales (Parramatta) and Jada Ferguson and Netta Nu’uausala (Broncos) in the NRLW.
Growing up in the Redlands, Bourke played rugby sevens from a young age before transitioning to league at the age of 21 to play for Valleys.
Her league background stretches to her father David Bourke who was a part of the Brisbane Broncos squad in 1988, playing three games in the club’s foundation year.
Just a few years after picking up the game, and 25 appearances in the BMD Premiership, Bourke has already been named by Wests Tigers’ coach Brett Kimmorley on an extended bench for Saturday’s clash with the Knights in Newcastle.
“I have really worked hard, it is a great feeling to play at the next level,” Bourke said.
“As soon as I found out [about the contract] I thought of Norths because they are the reason why, it will be hard to leave the club.”
Devils CEO Troy Rovelli said Bourke’s signing was recognition of her skill and consistency.
“Portia fully deserves this call-up and we’re proud of all that she has done,” Rovelli said.
“Her promotion is a reward for her performances. Portia is dedicated, mentally tough, uncompromising and the ultimate competitor.
“We’re a pathway club and our aim is to create an environment that helps our players, coaches and other staff to take the next step in their careers.”
Bourke, who is a registered nurse, has some familiarity with Sydney after playing with South Sydney Rabbitohs in the Harvey Norman Premiership last year after the Devils’ season.
Bourke, who played in the BMD side that reached last year’s grand final, had been looking forward to the second half of the season for Norths who sit in third place on the ladder ahead of Saturday’s clash with the Northern Pride in Cairns.
“It’s hard to miss out on those things but I will always support the club. If we make the grand final I will put on a jersey and watch,” Bourke said.
Photo by Alan Drinnen
