Antonio Winterstein has extended his contract with North Queensland Cowboys for a further two years.

It means the NRL premiership-winning winger will be at the Cowboys until the end of the 2018 season.

Winterstein started his career with Brisbane Broncos and made his NRL debut against the Cowboys in 2009, spending two seasons at Red Hill before his shift to Townsville.

The 27-year-old has scored 56 tries in 115 games for North Queensland and said he was delighted to have locked in his future.

“It really feels like home up here now,” Winterstein said.

“I’m enjoying my footy, we had great success last year and I’m extremely positive about what lies ahead.”

Coach Paul Green hailed Winterstein for his reliability and toughness.

“He’s a consistent performer, a great finisher and shows strong leadership on and off the field,” Green said.

“To play over 150 games at this level is no mean feat and we’re thrilled to have him continue his time at the club.”

Winterstein will take his usual place on the wing when the Cowboys host Parramatta Eels on Saturday night in Townsville.