NEWCASTLE THUNDER have completed a double swoop for Leeds Rhinos product Noah Whittingham and Queensland Cup halfback Cody Hunter.

Hunter, 24, arrives from Australia with a proven record in the Queensland Cup, where he impressed for the Redcliffe Dolphins and Sunshine Coast Falcons.

The halfback has progressed through the junior and senior ranks in Queensland, registering 20 tries and 239 goals in 63 Queensland Cup appearances.

On the signing of Hunter, head coach Graham Steadman 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.”

Meanwhile, a product of the Leeds Rhinos development system, Whittingham has also put pen to paper on a deal with Thunder, who are hoping to improve on their last-placed finish in League One in 2025.

Whittingham, who began his rugby journey with Oulton Raiders and Castleford Lock Lane, progressed through academy ranks before representing the Leeds Rhinos’ reserves.