Perth Bears Appoint Dane Campbell and Ian Millward to Key Roles Ahead of 2027 NRL Debut

The Perth Bears have announced two high-profile appointments as the club continues building towards its entry into the NRL in 2027. Dane Campbell will take on the role of Player Recruitment Manager, joining from the Brisbane Broncos where he currently serves as Recruitment and Pathways Manager.

Campbell has also held senior positions with the Melbourne Storm and North Queensland Cowboys, giving him extensive experience across the NRL landscape.

Eager to establish a team that Western Australian can be proud of, Incoming Player Recruitment Manager, Campbell, said: “I am incredibly excited by the opportunity to join the Bears and work alongside some incredible people that have achieved so much in both rugby league and the corporate world.”

“Perth is a great sporting city and I truly believe that we can build a team from the ground up that the community will be proud to call their own,” he said.

Perth Bears have also secured the services of Ian Millward as Elite Pathways Manager. Millward boasts a wealth of experience across Australia and the UK, highlighted by his time at St Helens where he twice led the club to Super League grand final glory, in addition to Challenge Cup and World Club Challenge triumphs. Most recently, he was with the St George Illawarra Dragons.

Describing the role as a rare opportunity, Millward, added: “This is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to help build strong foundations for the future of rugby league in WA.”

“I look forward to working with players, coaches and the community as we develop pathways that will support long-term success at the elite level,” Millward expressed.

Welcoming both appointments, describing Campbell and Millward as “considered and smart choices” who would provide confidence and leadership during the club’s crucial early years, Head Coach, Mal Meninga, mentioned: “The enormity of the task shouldn’t be underestimated.”

“They give me a great sense of confidence having them in our cave. In line with the Bears values of being forward facing and bold; we will continue to have the very best of talent within our team,” Meninga said. 

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