North Sydney Bears legend Billy Moore has officially stepped down from the club’s board, marking the end of his tenure ahead of the team’s re-entry into the NRL in 2027 as the Perth Bears.
The Perth-based expansion bid, backed by the historic North Sydney Bears, is set to become the NRL’s 18th team and has already confirmed that Mal Meninga will lead the club as its inaugural head coach.
The new club will be able to begin signing players from November 1, 2025, as they prepare for their debut season.
Although based in Perth, the new NRL franchise will maintain strong ties to North Sydney, with several home games expected to be played at the iconic North Sydney Oval to honour the club’s heritage.
Billy Moore, who joined the board of the NSW Cup side in 2020 and has been a passionate advocate for the Bears’ return to the top flight, has decided to resign to focus on his media and business career.
“It is with great sadness, but also excitement, that I’ve stood down off the Board,” Moore said in a club statement.
Despite stepping down from an official role, Moore emphasised that he will continue to support the club as they transition back into the NRL.
North Sydney Bears CEO Gareth Holmes paid tribute to Moore’s commitment and legacy within the organization:
“Billy, not only a legend of the club, has been an invaluable member of the North Sydney Bears board, bringing passion, insight, and commitment to the club’s success coupled with his unwavering dedication to getting the Bears back into the NRL,” Holmes said.
“This passion and dedication have been instrumental in shaping a very exciting future and we are incredibly grateful for his tireless efforts. On behalf of the entire football club, district and personally to me in my role, I thank Billy for the lasting impact he has made on and off the field and look forward to him being a part of the Perth Bears as we prepare for 2027,” the Bears CEO said.
As the Perth Bears’ NRL debut in 2027 draws closer, Moore’s contributions leave a lasting legacy in what could be a historic return for one of rugby league’s foundation clubs.
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