Beetson family brings ‘Spirit of Artie’ to Maroons camp

Queensland’s State of Origin squad received a heartfelt reminder of Arthur “Artie” Beetson’s legacy when his son Brad, of Nambour, and niece Bianca visited Camp Maroon ahead of tonight’s series opener against New South Wales at Suncorp Stadium (May 28).

The pair presented the players with the 2025 Indigenous jersey, a design honouring Beetson’s life and cultural roots. Half of all sales through the Maroons Shop will support programs run by the Arthur Beetson Foundation.

“To be honest, I got a bit emotional and could not say to much,” Brad said. 

“I just acknowledged my grandparents and their role in dad’s journey as part of the stolen generation. 

“Also, obviously, his legacy and the influence he has had on the game. 

“Bianca spoke about what a special man Dad was and how the artwork on the jersey speaks of dad’s connection to his culture and to the game of rugby league.”

Queensland coach Billy Slater asked his players to embrace the “Spirit of Artie” as they prepare for the opener. Beetson, who died in 2011 aged 66, is regarded as one of Queensland’s greatest rugby league figures and captained the Maroons in the inaugural State of Origin match in 1980.

Artie’s son Brad Beetson presents a jersey to Maroons skipper Daley Cherry-Evans.