Origin of the Series Exploding Budgies Productions

Jeff and Steve are back and getting very excited about Origin 2024. This week they've invited some friends from around the state of Queensland to share their SOO stories.

Another episode and another treat for the hosts as Jeff and Steve are joined this week by another Origin legend, Eric Grothe Sr, to talk footy, music and where the game is headed. Along the way they inevitably discuss that incredible Parramatta backline and the 82 Kangaroo Tour.

It's that game folks. The one where Mark McGaw conspired to set back cross border relations for a few more years. It was a hell of a game for 78 minutes and Jeff and Steve were delighted to be joined for this episode by that game's referee, Mick Stone. Mick talks the boys through the match and reveals some previously well kept secrets about the last minute action.

It turns out that Mick Stone isn't just a ref of the highest calibre but he's also a bloody good guy! Who knew?

Jeff and Steve reflect on a stonking game of rugby league. Terrible result for anyone feeling maroony but high quality footy nonetheless. Lang Park was in great nick as usual, so good in fact that Peter Tunks, inventor of the game of "Contact Marbles", was rewarded with 4 points for his unusual drop-roll-smile technique across the manicured couch.

Origin Stories - Where Footy Touches Lives

Jeff and Steve are joined this week by Brad Beetson to talk about the connection between Indigenous Communities and rugby league. Is footy a force for good and if so, how does it work? Brad talks about The Murri Carnival, The Arthur Beetson Foundation Future Immortals and The QRL Indigenous Advisory Committee to name just a few of the ways he and his family are working to help create a better social landscape for everyone.

Also, as you would expect, Jeff and Steve couldn't pass up the opportunity to pester Brad with loads of questions about his Dad, the immortal Arthur Beetson.

Jeff and Steve are not just delighted and thrilled, but completely chuffed to be joined this week by Brisbane radio legend, Ian Skippen. Apart from being the voice of Brisbane, Skip is also a huge fan of footy, marinated ribs and beer and likes to combine these staples on Origin nights. You heard it here first!

Your hosts also walk through a great game of Origin football and reflect on how it might have been. If only.