Queensland Premier

Queensland Premier

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Queensland Premier Rugby is a semi professional club rugby union competition in Queensland, Australia. Nine clubs play in the competition, eight clubs are from Brisbane, and one club is from Gold Coast.
The premiership has been contested in its present form since 1929.

History

Queensland Premier Rugby (QPR) evolved out of the Brisbane club competition that had been running since 1887. It was created by players, administrators, referees and coaches to expand and improve the top level of Queensland non-professional rugby. QPR provides Queensland rugby players a stepping stone for selection into the Queensland Reds and other teams in Super Rugby or other professional rugby competitions.

Previous to 1920, the Hospitals Challenge Cup was established as a fund-raising exercise for the Brisbane General Hospital. After the devastation of World War I the competition was suspended until the Hospitals Cup was established. The Brisbane Club competition recommenced in 1929.

The 1975 Grand Final was played between the Brothers club and GPS and Brothers won the match. Teachers-Norths, Wests and again Brothers won the next seasons. In 1979, the first ever draw in a final occurred with a 24-all draw between rivals University and Brothers, a reply of the final was held, which saw University defeat Brothers by a mere 3 points. Brothers dominated the next few seasons, winning the 1980 to 1984 premierships. Souths won their first title in 1986, and University won a number of titles at the end of the decade.

Souths came to major prominence during the 1990s, winning the competition five times in a row from 1991 through to 1995, and then again in 1998 and 2000. They also featured in the 1996 season final which GPS won, and the 1997 final which Easts won. Canberra also competed in the competition, and found major success, winning three titles in a row from 2001 to 2003. The Gold Coast Breakers also began to become a force in the competition, featuring in five finals from 2001 to 2007, although they were on the receiving end of the competitions largest ever grand final score being thrashed 85-19 by the Sunnybank Dragons in the 2007 Grand Final.

In future, teams from other Rugby regions in Queensland may also join the competition, thus encouraging the pursuit of Rugby excellence across the state, not just confining it Queensland's south-east corner. However at a meeting of the Sunshine Coast Rugby Union in October 2013, it was decided by the members not to compete in the 2014 QRU’s Premier Rugby Competition, but will instead focus its energy on becoming the leading force in regional rugby.

**Queensland Premier Rugby Union Tournament**

The Queensland Premier Rugby Union Tournament is a prestigious annual competition that showcases the best of rugby talent across the state of Queensland, Australia. Established to promote the sport at a grassroots level, this tournament brings together elite clubs from various regions, fostering a spirit of competition, camaraderie, and sportsmanship.

**Tournament Overview:**
The Queensland Premier features a series of thrilling matches, where teams compete for the coveted championship title. With a format that includes round-robin play followed by knockout stages, the tournament promises high-stakes action and unforgettable moments on the field. Each match is a testament to the skill, strategy, and athleticism of the players, making it a must-watch event for rugby enthusiasts.

**Participating Teams:**
Clubs from across Queensland, including both established powerhouses and emerging teams, participate in the tournament. Each team is composed of talented athletes, many of whom aspire to represent Queensland at higher levels, including national and international competitions.

**Community Engagement:**
The Queensland Premier is not just about the matches; it is a celebration of rugby culture in the region. The tournament engages local communities, encouraging families and fans to come together to support their teams. Various events, including fan zones, merchandise stalls, and food vendors, create a vibrant atmosphere that enhances the overall experience for attendees.

**Development Pathway:**
The tournament serves as a vital platform for player development, with scouts and coaches in attendance to identify emerging talent. It plays a crucial role in the rugby union pathway, providing players with the opportunity to showcase their skills and potentially advance to higher levels of competition.

**Conclusion:**
The Queensland Premier Rugby Union Tournament is a highlight of the rugby calendar, embodying the passion and dedication of players, coaches, and fans alike. Whether you are a die-hard rugby fan or new to the sport, this tournament promises excitement, drama, and a celebration of the rich rugby heritage of Queensland. Join us for an unforgettable season of rugby!