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The 1995 State of Origin series remains one of Queensland’s most legendary victories; a triumph built on heart, belief and an unbreakable bond.

Against all odds, a Maroons side largely written off before the series began delivered one of the most famous 3-0 whitewashes in Origin history.

This Friday will see that very same team reunite at the XXXX Brewery to celebrate their 30 years since that momentous series.

An underdog Queensland

The 1995 series took place in the midst of the Super League war, a bitter battle between rugby league’s governing bodies that split the game into two. With the ARL controlling Origin election, Queensland was left without a host of their biggest stars with Allan Langer, Steve Renouf, Wendell Sailor and Kevin Walters all unavailable after aligning with Super League.

In contrast, New South Wales had an all-star squad, including Steve Menzies, Brad Fittler, Paul Harragon as well as Andrew and Matthew Johns. On paper, it was a mismatch.

Queensland coach Paul ‘Fatty’ Vautin, in his first year in charge, was handed a team of unheralded players. Many were rookies, some were club journeymen and only a handful had played Origin before.

What they lacked in experience, they made up for in spirit.

The Maroons embraced their underdog status and vowed to defy expectations.

Maroons captain Trevor Gillmeister. Photo: NRL Imagery
Maroons captain Trevor Gillmeister. Photo: NRL Imagery

Game I: All-in brawl sets the tone

The opening game at the Sydney Football Stadium was expected to be a comfortable win for the Blues, but Queensland had other ideas. An early all-in brawl set the tone for the Maroons’ fearless attitude. Adrian Lam, Matt Sing, and Billy Moore – who introduced the now-iconic “Queenslander!” war cry – led the charge as Queensland stunned the home crowd with a 2-0 win. The only points came from a Wayne Bartrim penalty goal, but it was enough.

Game II: Miracle at the MCG

Game II at the MCG in Melbourne was a defining moment. The Maroons, refusing to be intimidated, produced a heroic defensive effort before a brilliant 80th minute try from Brett Dallas sealed a 20-12 victory. Queensland had done the unthinkable – they had secured the series.

Game III: The clean sweep

With the shield secured, the limited Blues fans were drowned out by the deafening roar of a 40,000-plus sea of maroon as Queensland looked to finish the job at Lang Park. A determined hunger for a whitewash. Tries from Jason Smith, Moore, Dallas and Ben Ikin won the game 24-16, ensuring a famous 3-0 series sweep, leaving the Maroons faithful in raptures.

The 1995 triumph remains one of Queensland’s most cherished victories, proof their belief, passion and dedication towards each other could overcome any odds.

In honour of the 1995 Maroons team, a special captain's run jerseys will; be launched on MaroonsShop on Friday, January 31. Be sure to get in before they’re gone.