The Perth Bears have landed one of the game’s hottest young talents in Australian Schoolboy Mason Barber on a three-year contract.
Barber, with a Kiwi background, is under contract with the North Queensland Cowboys.
The 20-year-old is currently playing behind Cowboys superstar Scott Drinkwater.
Drinkwater has agreed to a deal with the Dragons from 2027 but the Cowboys will then hand the fullback duties to another young gun in Jaxon Purdue.
“Mason is a sublimely talented player who has been on our radar for a long time now,” coach Mal Meninga said.
“He has the skill and character to make an impact for us right away while also becoming a cornerstone for the club for years to come.
“We have been deliberate in recruiting young players from good systems who we believe can become long-term first grade players.
“Mason fits that mould perfectly and I look forward to welcoming him and his family over to Western Australia.”
Barber is expected to be named in Perth’s round one squad for their historic first match in 2027.
“The opportunity to continue my career in Western Australia with the Perth Bears was too good to refuse,” Barber said.
“I’m looking forward to continuing my development under Mal and his staff and believe the Bears can provide me with that opportunity.
“I believe in the club’s vision for the future and am excited to be a part of it.”
It is understood the Bears will open their ’27 premiership campaign in Perth against the South Sydney Rabbitohs.
