The 2026 Brisbane Rugby League Grand Final Day lived up to expectations as Totally Workwear Stadium hosted three BRL premiership deciders across Colts, Reserve Grade and A Grade, as well as the BMD Premiership Preliminary Final.
A strong crowd witnessed memorable performances, championship celebrations and one of the most dramatic finishes in recent BRL history, with the A Grade title decided by a golden point two-point field goal.
The Brighton Roosters continued their outstanding season by claiming the BRL Colts Premiership, defeating the Carina Tigers 30-14 to secure their first Under 21s title since 2023.
Having previously won the competition in 2022, Brighton returned to the top of the Colts competition with a polished display built on strong defence and clinical finishing.
Five-eighth Adam McSherry was named Player of the Match after producing a dominant performance, scoring two tries and kicking three goals for a personal tally of 14 points.
Brighton established control early through a double to Sangstar Figota, taking a 14-0 lead into half-time before extending their advantage in the second half. While Carina fought back through tries to Payne and Cochrane, the Roosters proved too strong, sealing the result with late tries to Simpson, Rose and McSherry.
Result: Brighton Roosters 30 defeated Carina Tigers 14
Player of the Match: Adam McSherry (Brighton Roosters)
Brighton capped off a remarkable day by securing a second premiership, defeating Wynnum Juniors 26-20 in the BRL Reserve Grade Grand Final.
The two sides had been inseparable throughout the season, finishing the regular competition level on points with only points differential handing Brighton the minor premiership.
After suffering defeat to Wynnum in the Qualifying Final and falling short in last year’s Grand Final, the Roosters entered the decider determined to make amends.
Brighton made the perfect start, racing to an 18-0 lead through tries to Sam Kasiano, Peter Lui and Sam Sua. Wynnum responded strongly and never allowed the contest to get away from them, reducing the margin and setting up a tense finish.
However, Brighton’s composure under pressure proved decisive. Afaese Fa’avae delivered a tireless 70-minute performance and was flawless from the kicking tee, converting all five of his attempts. Former NRL veteran Sam Kasiano also played a key role, providing valuable experience and leadership through the middle of the field.
The Roosters held firm in the closing stages to complete a historic Colts and Reserve Grade premiership double.
Result: Brighton Roosters 26 defeated Wynnum Juniors 20
Player of the Match: Afaese Fa’avae (Brighton Roosters)
The 2026 BRL A Grade Grand Final produced a contest worthy of the occasion, with the Redcliffe Dolphins defeating the West Brisbane Panthers 20-18 in a thrilling golden point finish.
Redcliffe entered the decider as the competition benchmark after a dominant season, while Wests arrived determined to deny the Dolphins back-to-back premierships.
The Dolphins struck first in the 11th minute when Jack Margetts powered through the Panthers’ defensive line. They doubled their advantage shortly after as Jack White’s attacking kick was brilliantly kept alive by Mason Lome-Hindle, allowing Declan Dawson to score and give Redcliffe a 12-0 lead.
The Panthers responded late in the first half through Bailey Butler, before drawing level early in the second stanza when Noah Blooranta crossed following a perfectly weighted kick from Nathan Brown.
Redcliffe regained momentum when Michael McGrath capitalised on a loose play-the-ball and raced away to score, pushing the Dolphins back in front.
Just when the match appeared destined for a Redcliffe victory, Wests mounted one final charge. With less than three minutes remaining, a powerful Panthers attacking set culminated in Savaan Tahere crossing the line. Brown calmly converted from the sideline to lock the scores at 18-all and force golden point extra time.
The drama continued immediately after the restart, with Redcliffe gifting Wests prime field position when the kick-off sailed out on the full. The Panthers had an opportunity to snatch the premiership but were unable to convert.
Moments later, Redcliffe marched downfield before fullback Joven Gyemore stepped up to produce the match-winning moment. From 45 metres out, Gyemore launched a two-point field goal that sailed between the uprights, sealing a dramatic 20-18 victory and delivering the Dolphins consecutive BRL premierships.
Gyemore’s composure under pressure earned him Player of the Match honours, capping an unforgettable Grand Final.
Result: Redcliffe Dolphins 20 defeated West Brisbane Panthers 18 (Golden Point)
Player of the Match: Joven Gyemore (Redcliffe Dolphins)
