“I would have loved to see the Firehawks as the newest NRL team,” Ms Butler said.
 
“I’m disappointed that the Southside has been overlooked in favour of a team based in Redcliffe.
 
“I know this decision will have come as a blow to the many people from Easts Tigers and our broader community that have put their heart and soul into the bid.

"It has been a real pleasure to see the effort and amazing community spirit that has gone into backing the Firehawks.

"The leadership - board and executive - at Easts, and their many supporters both local and national, have really done our community proud. 
 
“I congratulate everyone who worked so hard on the bid, and everyone who got behind it.
 
“Everyone at Easts can hold their head up high.
 
“Despite this disappointment, I’m glad there will be another Queensland team. It will be good for rugby league, and good for Queensland,” Ms Butler said.

WEDNESDAY, 13 OCTOBER 2021