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The Redcliffe Dolphins are leaving other southeast Queensland clubs in their wake, signing an international agreement that will see New Zealand’s up-and-coming talent playing in Moreton Bay.

Moreton Bay Region Mayor Peter Flannery said the trans-Tasman allegiance was a logical fit, and he hopes it will add international muscle to the Dolphins’ bid to become the next Brisbane-based NRL franchise

“Moreton Bay is already home to more than 21,000 passionate New Zealand-born residents, not including their extended family members who also live locally,” he said.

“This trailblazing affiliation between the Dolphins and the Warriors will strengthen our Kiwi ties and bring an influx of international visitors for training and competitions.

“The Warriors have already begun talking about playing games at our state-of-the-art stadium which, is currently undergoing further upgrades to host 10,000 fans.

“I’ll be meeting with the Warriors at Dolphin Stadium on Wednesday, to talk about getting their support behind our NRL licence bid.

“Everyone knows that Redcliffe is rugby league heartland with more than 5,200 locals playing the game across Moreton Bay.

“Not only are we the Intrust Super Cup’s most successful team, the Dolphins business acumen and financial position is the envy of all other clubs.

“I’m sure every town in Queensland will want this licence, but this decision must be made with the head not the heart.

“On every business and fiscal measure Redcliffe runs rings around all our rivals. Only Redcliffe will offer the financial and commercial opportunities that a team needs to stand on its own two feet, we can guarantee the NRL of that.

“No organisation can last 72 years without a proven track record of prudent financial management and stability as well as community backing – the Redcliffe Dolphins have got a range of revenue streams and many long-term business deals that set them apart from everyone else.

“Unlike many other teams in the NRL who have significant rental costs at their home stadiums, Dolphin Stadium is actually owned by the club.

“The Redcliffe Leagues Club also has a loyal membership base of more than 40,000 people, which is far more than some existing NRL clubs.

“Today’s announcement is further proof of the Dolphins’ ability to identify opportunities beyond the horizon and seize them, even at this difficult time.

“I can’t wait to see supporters on the day flying the Warriors colours here in Moreton Bay Region.”