Western Clydesdales are thrilled to announce Ben and Shane Walker as the head coaches for the club’s 2026 Hostplus Cup season.

The appointment marks both a homecoming and a return to the coaching ranks for the Toowoomba-born and raised brothers, who have a proven track record of success in the QRL’s statewide competitions.

The Walkers famously guided the Ipswich Jets to the 2015 Queensland Cup and NRL State Championship, taking the club from the bottom of the ladder to the top of the tree in a stunning transformation that inspired the local community.

Now the former NRL players are out to do the same with the Clydesdales, who are hungry to become a force in the Hostplus Cup.

“It is a real honour to coach this iconic team that represents a rugby league community that both Shane and I have grown up in,” Ben said.

“We are proud to lead a region that is immersed in rugby league history.”

“We are coaches who believe in winning and making the lives of young footballers better both on and off the field … and this starts today.”

The Walkers take the reins from Jason Alchin, who has made an immense contribution to the club’s football program.

Western Clydesdales chair Tony Coonan said Alchin had laid strong foundations for the future.

“Jason has played a vital role in developing our football programs and embedding high-performance standards within our Hostplus Cup squad,” Coonan said.

“Importantly, Jason has nurtured and developed local talent from across the region, many of whom are now seasoned Hostplus Cup players or have gone on to pursue opportunities at NRL clubs.

“His experience, leadership and care for players has helped to create a culture that supports both football excellence and personal growth.

“On behalf of the Board, our members, partners and the wider rugby league community, I thank Jason for his dedication and significant contribution to the club.

“We wish him every success in the future and know he will remain a lifelong Clydesdale.”

Coonan said the Clydesdales were now well placed to “move and grow” under the guidance of the Walker brothers.

“Their record in the Hostplus Cup speaks for itself,” Coonan said.

“Ben and Shane have a great eye for local talent, they know what it takes to win; and most importantly they’re passionate about developing talent from the south-west region that they call home.”