With a passionate Redcliffe crowd tipped to turn out in big numbers, the Channel 9 match-of-the-round between last year’s September rivals will set the tone for another captivating season.
After falling one win short of lifting their first top grade trophy since 2006, the Dolphins will be eager to get one back on the Bears and kick-start their 2017 campaign in style.
The stakes will be just as high in the north during the opening round when the Mackay Cutters host the Northern Pride at BB Print Stadium.
The match will commemorate 10 years since the two clubs met in their first Cup encounter, won 44-16 by the Pride.
The northern clubs have come a long way since their entry into the competition in 2008, with the Pride claiming two premierships (2010 & 2014) and the Cutters sweeping all before them in 2013.
