The Perth Bears have officially unveiled their most significant recruitment coup to date, confirming the prized signatures of Tyran Wishart and Nick Meaney from the Melbourne Storm ahead of their inaugural NRL season in 2027.
Embed from Getty ImagesThe announcement comes just a day after Melbourne publicly confirmed that neither player would be retained beyond the 2026 season, opening the door for the Bears to move swiftly and decisively.
Wishart, one of the most versatile and reliable players in the NRL, has committed to Perth on a long-term deal through to the end of 2031. The 26-year-old has carved out a reputation as the ultimate utility, capable of covering hooker, halves, fullback and the backline, while also providing calm leadership under pressure. His ability to fill multiple roles makes him a cornerstone signing as Perth look to build stability and flexibility into their first-ever roster.
Joining him is fellow Storm premiership winner Nick Meaney, who has signed a three-year deal until the end of 2029. Meaney brings elite goal-kicking, composure and positional versatility, having featured at fullback, centre and wing during his Storm career. A proven big-game performer, Meaney’s experience will be invaluable for a new club navigating its formative years in the NRL.
The double signing represents a major statement of intent from Perth, who have already assembled a strong foundation with earlier recruits including Toby Sexton, Harry Newman, Sean Russell, Liam Henry, Iszac Fa’asuamaleaui, Luke Smith, Josh Curran and Emarly Bitungane.
With both Wishart and Meaney arriving directly from one of the NRL’s most successful systems, the Bears have secured not just talent, but winning habits and professionalism. As their 2027 entry draws closer, Perth’s roster is beginning to take genuine shape — and these two signings may prove pivotal in setting the club’s identity from day one.
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