Celebrations for the Club's fifth season included the catch cry "Five Years of Footy" and a wave of new signings.
Noel Goldthorpe, hero from the NSW Tri-Series win over QLD in 1997, and Paul Green were just two higher profile players signed for the year.
Other notable signings were NSW Tri-Series representative Matthew Ryan and QLD Tri-Series representative Geoff Bell.
With such quality players on side, much was expected, but again the season ended disappointingly, finishing in second last place in the 17-team competition.
The annual local derby clash with the Brisbane Broncos resulted in a hard fought draw and was the highlight of the season, attracting a packed house.
Significantly the one millionth spectator came through the gates of the Cowboys stadium, now renamed "Dairy Farmers Stadium."
Success on the field was eagerly sought by everyone associated with the Cowboys.
Elite halfback Paul Green bought glory to the Cowboys when he became the Club's first State of Origin representative.
Another highlight was an away win against Auckland which featured the debut of New Zealander Brian Jellick, who went on to make his debut for New Zealand from North Queensland.
Season Statistics
- Captain: Noel Goldthorpe
- Coach: Tim Sheens
- Principle Sponsor: Overflow
- Wins: 4, Losses: 19, Draws: 1
- Top point scorer: Noel Goldthorpe (60)
- Points for: 398, Points against: 588
- Finished: 16th
Representative Players/Coaches
- Paul Green: Queensland State of Origin
- Brian Jellick & John Lomax: New Zealand
