"Cane toad" is the affectionate nickname given to Queenslanders, and in the great state rivalry between Queensland and New South Wales, it's more than just an amphibious reference—it's a battle cry. The term harks back to the infamous cane toad invasion in Queensland, which, like a dodgy houseguest, quickly made itself at home and multiplied faster than you can say "barbie." But to Queenslanders, being called a "cane toad" is a badge of honor, symbolizing resilience, adaptability, and a tendency to hop over obstacles (sometimes literally).
Meanwhile, New South Wales residents are known as "cockroaches," suggesting they're tough, hardy, and virtually indestructible, much like the critters they're named after. When these two states clash, it's like a wildlife documentary with a rugby ball in the middle. The annual State of Origin rugby series becomes the ultimate showdown, with the Cane Toads and Cockroaches slugging it out for bragging rights.
Despite the rivalry, it's all in good fun. When Aussies use these terms, they're just ribbing each other, much like siblings at a family gathering. Queenslanders will proudly sport cane toad costumes and make jokes about their opponents scurrying away, while New South Wales folks will retort with their own quips about amphibian antics. It's the kind of cultural war where everyone has a laugh, and the worst that can happen is you get ribbed at the pub for the rest of the year.
