Heath Mason has joined the Perth Bears from the Wests Tigers, signing a one-year development list contract for the club’s inaugural NRL season in 2027.
The 21-year-old, who can play fullback and five-eighth, made his NRL debut for the Tigers in 2024 and has played 20 NRL games across three seasons, the Bears announced on Tuesday. He scored 11 tries in 12 NSW Cup appearances this year.
Most of his first-grade chances in 2026 came off the interchange bench, with six appearances for the Tigers, Zero Tackle reported.
Mason said he was looking forward to joining the squad in Perth.
“Being part of the first Bears team is something you only get one shot at,” Mason said.
“I’m very grateful for the opportunity. I’m ready to work hard and earn my spot.”
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Meninga: ‘He’s young, he’s hungry’
Head coach Mal Meninga said Mason’s arrival added depth and competition for spots before the squad’s first pre-season.
“Heath is an NRL player on the up, and he’s shown at both NRL and NSW Cup level that he can excel in several positions,” Meninga said.
“His versatility will be an asset as he develops his game. He’s young, he’s hungry, and he’ll push the players around him from the very first session.”
General manager of football Gareth Holmes said the signing reflected the club’s approach to building its first squad.
“We’ve been clear that we want a mix of proven NRL players and young talent who can grow with this club. Heath fits that. He’s already played 20 first-grade games at 21, and we think his best football is ahead of him,” he said.
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Who is Heath Mason?
Mason grew up in Bowral, played his junior football with the Thirlmere-Tahmoor Roosters and attended St Gregory’s College, Campbelltown. He was selected for the Australian Schoolboys in 2023 and captained his school to the ASSRL Championship that year.
He is not the first young Tiger to head west. Winger Luke Laulilii joined the Bears on a two-year deal earlier in their recruitment drive, Fox Sports reported.
The Bears will play their first NRL season in 2027 under Meninga, with the full NRL draw due to be released on November 16.
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