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"LETS rock and roll". That was the message from Hermit Park co-captain Andrew Grubba after the Tigers mauled AFL Townsville grand finalists University Hawks 19.13 (127) to 7.9 (51) in the season opener at Neil French Oval on Saturday.

"It's only the first game of the season but it's a pretty good springboard for the rest of the season now," Grubba said.

"In the seven seasons I've been here now, that would have to be one of the more memorable ways we've started."

The launch pad for victory was laid early with Hermit Park kicking away to a 36-point lead before the Hawks could muster a reply.

New recruit Keith Robertson made an immediate impact with a five-goal haul, with handy three-goal contributions from Josh DiBetta and Gavin Martin.

Whatever running game Uni intended to unleash never eventuated as the Tigers hit them with a balance of speed and power.

The physical qualities of the yellow and black could never be questioned, but their ability to match Uni's legion of quality on-ballers surprised even Grubba.

"We're a pretty big side, but I was impressed by how well the midfield went," he said. "Every time Uni had the ball in midfield the pressure was on there straight away."

Meanwhile, reigning premiers Thuringowa got their campaign off to a great start, accounting for Curra Swans 16.9 (105) to 6.5 (35).

RESULTS Hermit Park Tigers 19.13 (127) d University Hawks 7.9 (51)

Goals - Hermit Park: K Roberts 5 J DiBetta 3 G Martin 3 M Tebble 2 P Ianelli 2 T Palin 2 J Brazendale J Stirton; University: D Feeby 2 E Tommasini J Eyre S McKenzie P Burger R Wearmouth.

Best - Hermit Park: C Reinhardt T Ruff A Grubba J Stirton K Roberts; University: J Flemming J Eyre A Oaten B Thom A Connell