The North Queensland Cowboys have officially signed Dally M winning fullback Ben Barba on a one-year deal for 2019.
Cowboys Director of Football Peter Parr said the club was excited to welcome Barba for the 2019 season.
"Ben's form this year for St Helens has been of the highest standard. He's been the best fullback if not the best player in the English Super League," Parr said on the club website.
"He is from Mackay and has always had a desire to play for the Cowboys, but for whatever reasons the stars never aligned until now.
"Ben has been looking to return to the NRL and with an opening at the fullback position at our club it presented the opportunity for him to do that."
Barba joins the club on the back of a stellar season for St Helens in the UK Super League where he currently leads all players with 26 tries and ranks third with 24 try assists.
"Ben is an extremely gifted player and I believe he can be a huge asset for our side next season," Head coach Paul Green said.
"He has been in fantastic form for St Helens and he still has a great deal to offer at NRL level.
"Ben hails from North Queensland and he is excited to be able to return home and represent the region."