Ep 44 Brad Backer

Welcome to the FOGS Queenslander Podcast Episode 44!

Featuring FOG #6 Brad Backer
Hosted by Mark Braybrook

In this episode, we sit down with Brad Backer, an original Maroon and proud member of the first-ever Queensland State of Origin team in 1980. Born in Maryborough, Backer’s journey from country footy to the Origin arena is a true Queensland rugby league story.

A two-time BRL premiership winner with the Easts Tigers, Backer played 13 games for Queensland, including three in the Origin format, and was part of the 1979 Amco Cup final with the Brisbane representative side.

In this reflective and heartfelt episode, Brad shares:

• What it meant to grow up playing league in Maryborough and Wide Bay
• The step-by-step rise through country footy to the BRL and beyond
• Moving to Brisbane in 1978 and earning his shot with Easts
• The influence of coaching legends like Jack Gibson and Des Morris
• His experience being called into the inaugural 1980 Origin match
• Emotional memories of family support, especially his parents driving down for every game
• His views on Queensland pride, the evolution of Origin, and the legacy of those early years

Full of honest recollections and genuine emotion, this is a must-watch for fans of Origin history and the people who built the foundations of Queensland’s success.

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