Before the Gold Coast Titans clash with the Manly Warringah Sea Eagles under the 'Friday night lights' at Cbus Super Stadium, the next generation of talent will take centre stage in the Clontarf Interstate Challenge, kicking off at 6:05pm.
This special curtain-raiser will see the best young Indigenous rugby league players from Queensland and New South Wales go head-to-head in a fiercely contested state rivalry.
More than just a game, the Challenge is a celebration of culture, connection and opportunity – showcasing rising stars supported by the Clontarf Foundation.
As part of their build-up, the Queensland team toured the Titans' high-performance facilities and watched the NRL squad’s Captain’s Run on Thursday.
It was a unique opportunity for the players to gain insight into the professional game and to be inspired by those currently living out many young boys' dream.
The Clontarf Foundation plays a critical role in the lives of these young men. By using sport as a vehicle, the Foundation helps improve school attendance, discipline, self-esteem and job readiness for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students across the country.
For fans heading to Cbus early, Friday night’s curtain-raiser is more than a warm-up act – it’s a powerful reminder of the role rugby league can play in shaping brighter futures.