Redcliffe local returns to where it all began

18 years ago. That was the last time Petero Civoniceva put on the laces for the Redcliffe Dolphins, until now. It was back in 1994, in the grand final, that Petero last played for the club – as he braces himself for the 2013 season, signing with the club for the season.

His return to Redcliffe comes after playing in 307 NRL games, 45 Tests and 33 State of Origin games, with the return of Petero to the Intrust Super Cup not only beneficial for Redcliffe, but for the entire competition, too.

Announcing his retirement from the NRL and all forms of representative footy this year, for Petero t

o come back where he started, makes the memories flow.

“I grew up on these hills, playing touch footy on the field with other kids and getting booted off as the first grade side ran out. They are great memories.” Civoniceva said.

It was in the 1994 GF that served as one of Civoniceva's two cameo appearances, with Troy Lindsay, a Dolphins legend, thrilled to see the man they call Bulla, back in the competition.

“I always thought or hoped Petero would finish his career here” Lindsay said.

“I just wish I was young enough to be playing with him!”

Petero's return to Redcliffe will not be the first major one of its kind – with the late, great Arthur Beetson doing the same thing after his career, back in 1981.