Full Breakdown
Perth Bears Secure Key Signings Ahead of 2027 NRL Inaugural Season
1/11/2026, 12:01:13 AM
Major Signings Announced
The Perth Bears have made significant strides in building their roster for the 2027 NRL season by signing Tyran Wishart and Nick Meaney from the Melbourne Storm on long-term contracts. Wishart, a versatile utility player, has committed to a five-year deal that will keep him with the Bears until the end of the 2031 season. Meaney, known for his adaptability in the backline, has signed a three-year contract that extends through 2029.
Player Profiles
Tyran Wishart, 26, has played 84 First Grade games since his debut in 2022 and has represented the Australia Prime Minister’s XIII in 2024 and 2025. He was awarded the Melbourne Storm’s Rookie of the Year in 2022 and has scored 21 tries in his career. Wishart expressed enthusiasm about joining the Bears, stating, “I’m really excited about the challenge of being a part of a new team and creating a legacy for the Perth Bears.”
Nick Meaney, 28, has a total of 159 First Grade games under his belt, scoring 62 tries and kicking 351 goals since debuting for the Newcastle Knights in 2018. Meaney highlighted the opportunity to relocate his family to Perth and contribute to the Bears’ inaugural roster as a key factor in his decision, saying, “The Perth Bears provide a unique chance for my family and I to move to Western Australia and be a part of a new club that is essentially starting from scratch.”
Coaching Perspective
Perth Bears Head Coach Mal Meninga expressed his satisfaction with the signings, noting that both players bring a wealth of experience and leadership. He stated, “Tyran and Nick are exceptional players that will bring a wealth of experience and leadership to our club.” Meninga emphasized that Wishart's energy and Meaney's versatility will be crucial in establishing the standards and values of the new franchise.
Roster Development
With the addition of Wishart and Meaney, the Bears’ roster is beginning to take shape, joining other confirmed signings such as Josh Curran, Liam Henry, Toby Sexton, and Harry Newman. The team is tasked with filling a top-30 roster to compete effectively in their inaugural season. The Bears aim to create a competitive squad capable of challenging established teams in the league.
Future Implications
The recruitment of Wishart and Meaney marks a significant step for the Perth Bears as they prepare for their entry into the NRL. Their signings not only enhance the team's capabilities on the field but also contribute to the club's identity and culture as it seeks to establish itself in the league. The Bears will commence their inaugural pre-season in November 2026, with both players expected to play pivotal roles in the team's development.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I’m really excited about the challenge of being a part of a new team and creating a legacy for the Perth Bears, as well as representing the past players and fans of the Bears and Reds franchises,” — Tyran Wishart, Player
- “The Perth Bears provide a unique chance for my family and I to move to Western Australia and be a part of a new club that is essentially starting from scratch,” — Nick Meaney, Player
- “Tyran and Nick are exceptional players that will bring a wealth of experience and leadership to our club,” — Mal Meninga, Head Coach
The Perth Bears are poised to make a significant impact in the NRL, with their roster development reflecting a strategic approach to building a competitive team for the future.
