Sport
17 November, 2025
Bears poach grand-finalists
Oakey Bears have signed Alex Hinch and Dwayne Duncan, who played in this year’s TRL Grand Final with Wattles.
Five-eighth Duncan is likely to replace coach Ash Taylor, who has indicated he will step back from playing next year, in the halves.
Seasoned Clifton rugby league writer Glyn Rees says Duncan, who was the TRL’s top points scorer in 2025, single-handedly won matches for Wattles off his boot.
“Dwayne Duncan was a Queensland Under 16s player. He is outstanding in general play kicking and is a clever play-maker who is worth a lot of points to any side,” Rees said.
“Wattles beat Brothers in the Preliminary Final off the back of his field goal.”
Rees says Hinch played mostly at fullback for Wattles in 2025, but is capable of filling multiple positions in the back-line.
“(Alex) is an exciting player, and was exceptional during his time at Wattles and with Valleys. He’s very fast and has a lot of speed and attacking ability,” he said.
The Bears are excited, too.
“Alex is a game changer, and we can’t wait to see the energy and drive he brings to the Bears as we push for an unforgettable 2026 season,” a club spokesperson said.
The signings strengthen Oakey’s back-line following last week’s announcement of 2021 Premiership winner Brandon McGrady joining the club from Warwick.
