Queensland's gay rugby players beat the world's gay rugby champions, Sydney - in a State of Origin-style rugby tournament at Ballymore on Saturday.

The Queensland team - the Brisbane Hustlers - beat the New South Wales team - the Sydney Convicts 12-5 - in a competition backed on Saturday by rugby legend John Eales.

The Brisbane Hustlers celebrate their maiden title in the Purchas Cup. Credit:Dale Napier

It is the first time Sydney's gay rugby team has been beaten in the eight years a rugby tournament involving Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and New Zealand has been played.

And for the first time the Purchas Cup was held at Queensland's home of rugby, Ballymore.