While focused on the Cowboys threat, Mackay-bred Barba admitted the Townsville trip offered a rare chance to catch up with family. "I definitely enjoy going back up there."
The Broncos are no strangers to being written off in finals since claiming the last of their six titles in 2006.
• Sydney Roosters coach Trent Robinson has conceded the NRL reigning premiers' forward depth will be tested heading into tonight's qualifying final against a dangerous Penrith.
The minor premiers have lost forwards Dylan Napa and Aidan Guerra to suspension, while Jake Friend and Frank-Paul Nuuausula are recovering from injury.
Asked if his forward stocks were as depleted as they have been at any stage of their title defence, Robinson said, "It will be close.
"We've still got all guys who have played NRL, but missing Aidan and Napa and Frank-Paul coming back from injury, it's a bit skinny.
"There's some depth tested there. But ... most teams have gone through it. We've been lucky, for quite a long time we've had most of our players available, and now we have to see how we go tomorrow."
The Roosters closed the regular season with six straight wins to secure top spot and now face fourth-placed Penrith at home at Allianz Stadium, where they beat them 32-12 in their only meeting this season.
- AAP
