Newcastle Thunder have been very busy on the transfer front as of late, signing a number of players to improve their squad for the upcoming Championship campaign.
Signing a number of players from York Knights, arrivals such as Sam Cook, Bailey Antrobus and Brad Ward have strengthened the side, with the club needing to improve after their 11th placed League One finish in 2025.
Noah Whittingham became the North East outfit’s latest incoming, with the former Leeds Rhinos academy man joining the club to bolster their back row options.
Their latest recruit is arguably their most important, with overseas half-back Cody Hunter joining the club from the Queensland Cup.
In what is an impressive coup for Thunder, Hunter, 24, has 63 appearances in the Australian reserve grade, after spending time at both Redcliffe Dolphins and Sunshine Coast Falcons. He has scored 20 tries and bagged 38 assists, as well as kicking 239 goals.
He becomes the latest overseas half-back to join the second tier, with Halifax Panthers also bringing in Aussie playmaker Jesse Soric ahead of 2026.
Head coach Graham Steadman is delighted that his new playmaker has signed on the dotted line, and can’t wait to see him represent the club. He said: “Cody is a fantastic addition to Newcastle Thunder.
“He’s a creative half with a real appetite for the game, and we’re excited to see how he adapts to our style and brings his own flair to the field. He will play a key role in shaping our season and helping the team reach our goals. We are confident that Cody will make an impact in the North East, and we are confident he’ll become a fan’s favourite on Tyneside.”
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Newcastle Thunder are thrilled to announce the signing of exciting halfback Cody Hunter ahead of the 2026 Betfred Championship season.
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— Newcastle Thunder (@ThunderRugby) January 7, 2026
