And the St George Illawarra enforcer plans to waste no time making himself at home in Newcastle.

Having helped the Dragons wrap up their second consecutive minor premiership with a 26-18 win on Saturday night, Costigan heaped praise on the opponents who will be his teammates for the next three years.

"They're a tough side," he said.

"They've got big forwards and big backs as well, and they're finishing off this year on a good note.

"I'm looking forward to coming here and joining a good young pack like that."

A capacity crowd on Saturday night gave the Queensland Origin forward a sample of a traditional big-game atmosphere at Turton Rd, and by the time he makes his Knights debut, the club hopes the new western grandstand will be complete.

"I've heard good things about the crowd," he said.

"It's a one-team town and they're all passionate about their footy.

"So I'm looking forward to coming here and playing in front of them."

The 25-year-old, who was born in Papua New Guinea but grew up in Townsville, signed with Newcastle in June after being feted by the club with dinner and a tour of the facilities.

"It seemed like a good country town, and I like the country areas," he said.

"The coach seemed like a real down-to-earth bloke and there are a lot of good players here, some good young talent.

"All the facilities looked good so everything was attractive.

"Right across the park, it seemed like a good club for me to be at."

But first things first. He has a premiership to win with the Dragons.

"That's something I've never done but always wanted," he said.

"Last year we sort of died in the arse a bit, but that could be the best thing for us as we head into this year's finals."