The Perth Bears have signed Australian and Queensland State of Origin representative Gehamat Shibasaki along with one of the game’s most exciting young prospects.

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Broncos’ premiership-winning centre Shibasaki has penned a two-year deal at the Bears worth $500,000 a season.

It’s a key signing for the Bears given they had signed up a stack of forwards but were still light on when it came to outside backs.

Shibasaki was a breakout star in Brisbane last year after starting the season on an $80,000 train and trial contract.

The 28-year-old went on to play for his state and country and score two tries in Brisbane’s drought-breaking grand final win over Melbourne.

Bears coach Mal Meninga said Shibasaki had been on his radar for some time.

“He is a Test player who will add a new dimension to our backline. He is large, strong and has big game experience that will be invaluable,” Meninga said.

“He has persevered for a long time and ultimately that led to success. I’m excited to welcome him and his family as part of our squad.”

Shibasaki said the prospect of being an inaugural Bears player was enticing.

NRL 2026 RD18 Brisbane Broncos v Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks – Gehamat Shibasaki /Source: Supplied

“I believe in Mal’s vision for the club and I’m excited about the opportunity to play for him and the club next year,” he said.

“The squad is shaping up well and I’m confident we can make an immediate impact.”

NSW under 19s representative and Bulldogs pathway player Jope Rauqe will also bolster the Bears outside backs depth.

The teenager made his Test debut for Fiji in 2025 and the Bears naturally see him as a long-term investment.

Meninga described Rauqe as an “outstanding prospect” who, at 191cm, had all the physical tools to become an NRL star.

Promising winger Jope Rauqe is the Bears’ newest signing.Source: News Corp Australia

“He is tall, athletic and an absolute try scorer. He will bring energy and excitement to our squad and can make a real impact,” Meninga said.

Rauqe joins the likes of Mason Barber, Jasais Ah Kee and Apa Twidle as a group of young players the Bears want to develop alongside the more experienced players they’ve already signed.

The Bears have now locked in 22 of their inaugural top 30 squad.