Season preview – the ProTen Community CupProTen publicity officer Jamie Parsons has penned a comprehensive preview of the 2025 rugby league season.Most of the clubs competing in the 2025 ProTen Cup season have begun training in the past couple of weeks. With a new draw (still waiting on final word) and a new season structure, with seven rounds, looking to begin on May 24th, the road to the seventh ProTen Cup season has begun with many sides looking very keen. Rankins SpringsMen’s Coaches – Josh Johnston and Damian WalkerWomen’s Coaches – Joel McIntyre and Luke TuckettCommittee – President Brent Parsons, Vice-Presidents Nathan Streat and Joel McIntyre, Secretary Jamie Parsons, Treasurer Tash Tuckett2024’s premiers have started training on the 6th February and will continue every Thursday at the Rankins Springs Sport & Rec Oval, and every Monday at Jubilee Oval in Griffith. No new signing news yet but most of the 2024 side look to be returning, with the notable exception of Chris Judd who has signed a first-grade contract with West Wyalong. NarranderaCoaches – TBACommittee – President Corey Prior, Vice-President Tommy Lyons, Secretary Paige Lyons, Treasurer Shaun LyonsTwo-time premiers and 2024 runners-up the Lizards have yet to start pre-season training, with several false starts for an AGM. A committee was elected just a couple of weeks ago and advertisements have been put out for men’s and women’s coaches. Their U16s side which competes in Group 20 started pre-season training last Tuesday. Former coach Kye Longford is coaching the Riverina Bulls U16s side.IvanhoeMen’s Coach – Dwayne Evans, Assistant Jay LittleWomen’s Coach – Jonno Hart, Assistant Brad LawrenceCommittee – President Mark Huntly, Vice-President Jonno Hart, Secretary Jessica Brennan-Clark, Treasurer Laura Rogers, Publicity Officer Brad Lawrence Known as the perennially unlucky club, the Roosters are still searching for that elusive premiership! It evaded them again last season after missing out on the Grand Final, due to a drawn prelim final, that saw them eliminated due to finishing lower on the ladder. The Roosters have already had many players commit, including club captains Ethan Whyman and Shailyn Williams and, along with the rumoured return of hometown NRL player Joel Thompson, Ivanhoe look in prime position to chase that long awaited premiership in 2025. Ivanhoe began training on the 8th February. Ivanhoe are set the open the season at home on the 24th May.BarellanMen’s Coaches – Adam Thomas and Noah ForbuttWomen’s Coach – Craig TooleCommittee – President Adam Evans, Vice-President Reece Wilson, Secretary-Treasurer Kirsten CarterThe much-improved Rams have also begun training, running their first session recently. The men’s side lifted from a wooden spoon in 2023 to make the finals in 2024, leading the comp for much of the season. Noah Forbutt and Adam Thomas return to coach their third season and with a young side gaining more experience they are every chance to improve further. Craig Toole has come on as women’s coach and it will be no surprise if they dominate once again in 2025. Barellan are set to host the knockout on the 10th May. HillstonMen’s Coach – Tommy BrettschneiderWomen’s Coach – Jed WebsterCommittee – President Grant McMaster, Vice-President Tommy BrettschneiderThe Bluebirds have started with higher intensity than previous seasons with a new Facebook page and an early start to training. Training started on the 7th February and will continue every Wednesday and Friday at Stan Peters Oval. Numbers were good to start with and will hopefully continue, with the Bluebirds looking to bring finals footy back to the club for both grades. New men’s coach and vice-president Tommy Brettschneider has taken on a lot of responsibility and has been very active in the pre-season. Hillston will host the Grand Final on the 2nd August. Goolgowi Men’s Coach – Ben MarksWomen’s Coach – Brian SmithCommittee – President Alex Brown, Vice-Presidents Rory Brown & Danny Graham, Secretary-Treasurer Georgina HortonThe one-time dominators of the comp have moved slowly in recent seasons, winning two of the last three wooden spoons. Pre-season training began on the 12th February at Goolgowi Pool. 2024 coach Ben Marks has returned for another go in 2025, with the last-placed finish last season undeserving of his commitment and passion to the role. Hopefully with a better roll-up this season the Rabbitohs can get back to their best. Brian Smith takes over the head coaching role of the women’s team from Jessie Burns and Lexi Lightfoot. DeniliquinMen’s Coaches – Drew Hinkley & Kurt LongfordWomen’s Coach – Warren AnnettsCommittee – President Kurt Longford, Secretary Pauline Longford, Treasurer Fiona Casey, Publicity Officer Tallon Smith Proten Cup’s newest club started training the earliest, beginning on the 8th January. The Blueheelers have recently announced their coaches, bringing in Drew Hinkley and President Kurt Longford to lead the men’s side and Warren Annetts to lead the women. As part of their admittance to the competition, Deniliquin need players registered for both their sides by the end of this month, at which point the competition committee will meet again. For all the work put in for Deni to get back on the park, hopefully the players come through for them.

The 52nd annual West Wyalong Rugby League Knockout was hosted by the Mallee Men on Fridy and Saturday, at Ron Crowe Oval.Results:Grand final – South City Bulls 14 defeated Parkes 6Finals – South City 8 defeated Young 0Parkes 16 defeated Forbes 12Quarter finals – South City Bulls 26 defeated Hay 12Forbes 18 defeated Cooma 0Parkes 8 defeated Orange 6Young 16 defeated West Wyalong 4Round 1 (Friday) –Forbes 6 defeated Tullibigeal Lakes United 4Parkes 6 drew with West Wyalong 6Young 10 defeated Yanco Wahmoon 4South City Bulls 16 defeated Leetonn 0Woden Valley 6 drew with Cooma 6Orange Cyms 12 defeated Bombala 6

Bowls and tennis teams are headed into the finals.BY CHINA GIBSONMoulamein Division One now has a week off before they play in the bowls grand final in a fortnight. They were pitted against top of the table Murray Downs on Saturday at Swan Hill Bowls Club. “It was a tight game all day,” said author China Gibson.“Nothing in it at smoko, but our team was up. The sangas were great and then we went back out to battle.”Murray Downs had different ideas and came back at the Moulamein team taking the lead for a while. Moulamein fought back valiantly fought back, and it came down to the last end of the day. One rink down, two rinks up. Up by three overall. Moulamein will now battle it out with the winners out of Murray Downs and Lake Boga back at Swan Hill in a fortnight. “Swan Hill is taking a bit of credit for our win,” said China. “They reckon if they dished up cream cakes our Mighty Moulamein side would have faltered. Come over in two weeks and help cheer our team on.”Moulamein tennis team have also made the finals, in their first year of pennant tennis ever for Moulamein.  The Moulamein team have to travel every week as Moulamein does not have enough courts to play a home match.“Well done and good luck next weekend,” said China.

The Griffith Waratahs have withdrawn from the 52nd annual West Wyalong rugby league knockout after a player made racist remarks on Australia Day.In a surprise decision, Griffith Warathas have withdrawn from the 52nd annual West Wyalong rugby league knockout following an incident which occurred on Australia Day.Former West Wyalong player Cooper Louden was videoed making racist remarks which drew widespread condemnation."Hey, n*ggers, if it wasn't for the white fellas, you'd still be throwing f*cking sticks," Mr Loudon allegedly said in the video."If it was up to me, you'd be in a f*cking cage getting bashed.The videos have since been removed.While the West Wyalong club made a statement at the time saying the player did not represent the, the Waratah players recently made a unanimous decision to withdraw.Waratahs president Craig Wheeler said the club is standing behind their players decision."Being the president of the 'Tahs, I've got to be proud and stand by the boys' decision."In the end they are the one that are running out onto the field. “I don't get too involved in remarks from spectators but the boys have made a decision and they've stuck by it.”In response to the incident West Wyalong has arranged for cultural education for their players and will host First Nations leaders and rugby league identities Nathan Blacklock, Ron Gibbs and Christian Heffernan, the son of Immortal Arthur Beetson, at the Knockout.A new knockout draw is yet to be released.The Waratahs confirmed that pre-season matches will be arranged for March.

Join the New Facebook Group for Female Fishers in NSWThis dedicated Facebook group, created by NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD), is a place for women who love fishing to connect, share experiences, and support one another in building a healthier, more inclusive fishing future.According to DPIRD surveys, less than 15% of recreational fishers in NSW are women—let's change that! If you’ve always wanted to get into fishing but don't know where to start, or you want to connect with people who love fishing, this group is for youWhat you can expect in the group:Learn from Fellow Female Fishers: Exchange tips and advice with other women who fish.Share Your Fishing Photos and Stories: Celebrate your catches and fishing adventures.Discuss Tips and Techniques: From fishing gear to local hotspots in NSW, connect with others and improve your skills.Build Connections: Meet like-minded women, make new friends, and expand your fishing network.Stay Informed: Get updates on fishing workshops, events, and opportunities specifically for women in your area.This group is part of the ‘Fish For Life’ initiative, aimed at building a healthy, inclusive fishing future for everyone.How to Join:Click the link below to become a part of this growing community:Women in Recreational Fishing NSW Facebook Group

By Mick Cattanach - Hay Cricket ClubIt was a once in 100 years result. As the O’Farrell cup celebrates 100 years in November, a result such as this has not been seen before. The victorious Hay Cricket team, with the prestigious O’Farrell Cup.Back row from left: Rupert Lilburne, Bill Auldist, Tom Davies, Liam Whitbourne, Ben Arandt, Jensen Hargreaves, Dean Aylett and Kazi Islam. Front row: Jack Cattanach, Isaac Gardiner, Simon Bunyan, Mick Cattanach and Jack Headon.Image: Tallon SmithDavid Davies, district cricketing and sports legend, who made his debut in the O’Farrell Cup in 1959, was at the Urana Road Oval to watch the game and his grandson Tom, who batted at number 3. David declared it the best win of all time. In a true David versus Goliath match, Hay, the team from a town the population of 3000, and who usually only plays 25 overs, took on Cricket Albury Wodonga, with a 100,000 population, comprised of English professional players, Riverina and country state representatives with far more talent to choose from in building their team. Winning the toss on a pitch that was damp and looked spicy, Simon Bunyan chose to bat to get a score that could put the Albury team under pressure. His openers didn't let him down, with Jensen Hargreaves starting in a blistering way taking the opening bowlers down with 39 runs off only 26 balls.Getting good support from Liam Whitbourne, they put on 42 for the opening partnership. After Liam lost his wicket for seven, Jensen followed soon after.When Simon Bunyan went cheaply Hay was wobbling at three for 48. Tom Davies put his head down.Partnering with Kazi Islam initially and then Rupert Lilburne, Hay progressed to four for 93. At this point both Tom and Rupert Lilburne departed to leave Hay again under pressure at SIX for 93 in over 30. Jack Cattanach at this point took control of the batting, combining initially with Dean Aylett and then later with Ben Arandt.They pushed the score to a competitive total, given the conditions, of 145 before the last wicket fell in over 50. The first job was done for the Hay boys, batting their overs and giving the bowlers something to defend. Albury's chase started disastrously for them, as Rupert Lilburne bowling with pace and hostility ripped out one of the opener batsman and the No.3, both caught behind, before the score had hit double figures. Jack Cattanach, opening at the other end, then lured the other opener, an English pro who was Albury's century maker against Griffith the previous week, into a false shot and he was well caught by Jensen Hargreaves at deep mid-off for a duck. At three for 11, the Hay boys were up and about, but Albury was not going to lie down.Their skipper and keeper, both state country representatives, combined in a 60-run partnership before Dean Aylett lured the keeper into a false shot with his first ball, Jack Cattanach taking a sharp catch at cover. Dean wasn't done however and removed the skipper soon after, caught at mid-off, again by Jack. When Simon Bunyan, in the midst of a straight 10 over spell of miserly medium pace bowling, got a pull shot well caught in the deep by Jack Headon, Albury were back in trouble at 6 for 86. Another partnership developed and again Albury looked to be gathering in the total, although scoring was tough.Simon, in his last over, got the vital breakthrough again to a sharp catch at mid-wicket by Jack Headon. When Dean Aylett got the other key batsman caught behind, Albury were in trouble at eight for 115. Rupert Lilburne was brought back into the attack and with Hay fielders right on top, he clean bowled one batsman and then bounced another. Jensen Hargreaves then completed the innings with an excellent diving catch, as Albury were all out for 119. Hay slayed Goliath by 26 runs on their home field in an historic victory.It was the first win by Hay in the O'Farrell Cup for 50 years and the first time Albury had been beaten in over five years. Hay 145 all out (J Hargreaves 39, J Cattanach 29, T Davies 16, K Islam 15) defeated Albury/Wodonga 119 all out (R Lilburne 4/37, D Aylett 3/26, S Bunyan 2/14, J Cattanach 1/29). 

NSWRL Tickets are now on sale for Regional Magic Round in Tamworth in MayWestpac NSW Blues coach Laurie Daley will kick-off the Regional Magic Round in Tamworth in May, with tickets now on sale for the showpiece event that will feature 11 games from the state’s premier competition, The Knock-On Effect NSW Cup, and the regional Group 4 competition.With Regional Magic Round to be held over three days from 9-11 May, Daley will be joined by True Blue Ben Elias and Warriors Chief Executive Cameron George to officially launch proceedings with a Sportsman’s Lunch at Wests Tamworth on Friday 9 May.Tickets for Regional Magic Round start from as little as $5 for children, $10 for adults and $20 for a family of four, with three-day packages also available. There will be five games of The Knock-On Effect NSW Cup, and six Group 4 matches that will showcase both the men’s and women’s games.“The Regional Magic Round promises to be a great celebration of Rugby League, and I urge all fans to get in now to secure their tickets,” NSWRL Chief Executive David Trodden said.“Tamworth has shown they know how to celebrate an event with the annual Tamworth Country Music Festival, and I am confident they will support the Regional Magic Round too.“There are 11 Rugby League matches for fans to enjoy, as well as a host of Rugby League activations around the city, which will contribute to a wonderful occasion.”Two matches from The Knock-On Effect NSW Cup will be played on Saturday 10 May, Penrith Panthers v Western Suburbs Magpies, and the Newcastle Knights v last year’s Grand Finalists North Sydney Bears. The games on Sunday 11 May will feature Premiers Newtown Jets v St George Dragons, Manly Warringah Sea Eagles v Sydney Roosters, and Parramatta Eels v Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs.A Group 4 Women’s Tackle competition match will be played on Friday to determine third place, before Saturday’s Grand Final. The Group 4 games to be played include Werris Creek Magpies v Gunnedah Bulldogs (Friday), Moree Boars v Dungowan Cowboys (Saturday), Narrabri Blues v Kootingal-Moonbi Roosters (Saturday), and Boggabri Kangaroos v North Tamworth Bears (Sunday). “We’re excited to partner with NSWRL and Group 4 to bring the Regional Magic Round to Scully Park," Wests Entertainment Group Chief Communications Officer Paddy Donnelly said.“The weekend will be a fantastic opportunity for footy fans in the region to experience elite competition right here in Tamworth."Tickets are expected to sell fast and will be available online or in person at Wests or Diggers.”NSWRL Regional Magic Round scheduleFriday 9 May6pm: Women’s Tackle (Group 4)7pm: Werris Creek Magpies v Gunnedah Bulldogs (Group 4)Saturday 10 May11am: Penrith Panthers v Western Suburbs Magpies1pm: Moree Boars v Dungowan Cowboys (Group 4)3pm: Newcastle Knights v North Sydney Bears5pm: Narrabri Blues v Kootingal-Moonbi Roosters (Group 4)7pm: Women’s Tackle Grand Final (Group 4)Sunday 11 May11am: Newtown Jets v St George Illawarra Dragons1pm: Manly Warringah Sea Eagles v Sydney Roosters3pm: Parramatta Eels v Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs5pm: Boggabri Kangaroos v North Tamworth Bears (Group 4)https://click.email.nswrl.com.au/?qs=68acb675f8ce46959665416df595245e79b14119569c4b4ea0c27a466a8e84602610564b233e4809e4906be91e88bd2683a30c84f0e872c3

Balranald Roos Football and Netball Club has released a series of signing announcements on their social media.In the senior AFL squads Roarke Smith has committed to the Roos. “Roarke brings a wealth of experience from his time with the Western Bulldogs,” the club said. “(At the Bulldogs) he showcased his versatility as an athletic utility, capable of playing across multiple positions. Originally drafted from the Calder Cannons, he made his AFL debut in 2015 and went on to play a key role in the Bulldogs 2021 finals campaign. “Last season Roarke played with Port Melbourne, further adding to his experience at a high level. With his elite vertical leap, contested ball ability and on field leadership, we have no doubt he will make at huge impact at the Roos.”Swan Hill young gun Jye Hogan has also signed, after making his senior debut last year“Standing tall in the backline, Jye is an athletic defender with plenty of speed to shut down the opposition.”Lachlan Collihole and Bradley Hartman have also signed on to play for the Roos this year.“Callihoe is a standout player- super fit, ball magnet, and a strong mark, who knows exactly where the goals are. “Coming to us from Merbein, his impressive football resume speaks for itself, with multiple Northern Territory premierships among his many highlights.“Hartman has AFL experience at the Geelong Cats, and stints in the Victorian and South Australian leagues. Bradley brings incredible talent and leadership and is relocating from South Australia,“He’s excited to join the Roo’s and is passionate about helping develop our juniors.On the netball courts Chloe Taylor and Indi Kirby have re committed for the 2025 season. “Chloe is a dynamic attacker, she dominates wing attack with her smart positioning, precision feeding, and the ability to step up and shoot when needed. Her court vision and playmaking skills will be a huge asset once again this season.“After having some time on the sidelines welcoming little Jovi, Indi is back and ready to make an impact. She is a strong and tenacious defender, she reads the play beautifully and has a knack for pulling off crucial intercepts.”Ella Mirtschin and Bonnie Jolliffe are also amongst the netball announcements.“Ella is our sharp shooting goalie, known for her incredible accuracy and unwavering composure under pressure. “Bonnie is our reliable, quick and always level-headed centre. She keeps the game flowing and ensures we’re always on the front foot.” Taylin Barry and Macy LLoyd return to the court this season. “Taylin, our dynamic mid courter, is known for her incredible fitness and sharp game sense. With unmatched awareness and precise feeds into the ring, she’s a key link in our attack line and a player who can truly run all day. “Joining her is Macy, a fierce competitor who continues to prove she’s one of our toughest players in the game. As a goal attack, Macy’s agility and skill shine under pressure, and her leadership qualities make her a vital part of our club both on and off the court.” In coaching news Jake Lockhart has been appointed as the colts coach for the upcoming season. “Jake is an outstanding role model and leader, his enthusiasm for guiding the next generation is clear,” the club said. “We’re also please to announce that Woody Longford will be assistant coach to Jake for the 2025 season. Woody has been a great asset to the club through his past involvement with Auskick and junior teams bringing invaluable experience in nurturing young players. “Jake is eager to involve other senior players in supporting and mentoring the Colts, creating a strong connection across all levels of the club.” The club said that due to work commitments away from town Ben Jones is unable to continue as Reserves coach this season. “We’re grateful for Ben’s efforts and dedication to the team,” the club said. “Stepping into the role is Mick Linnett, who brings incredible passion for the club. Mick has already been actively involved in preseason training and committed to leading the reserves with energy and determination.” The Balranald Roos season kicks off on April 1, at home against Woorinen.

Two cousins from Wilcannia, Brooke Cattermole and Leonie Dutton, have travelled to Brisbane recently.The talented duo were recently named in the NSW Indigenous Schoolgirls Netball team.Earlier this month, the pair competed in Brisbane.The girls are now based in Bathurst.

Introducing The Girlfriend V8 Superboat Team, led by the formidable driver Brendan Doyle.Hailing from Balranald in New South Wales, Brendan is a seasoned competitor in the 400 Class of the Australian V8 Superboats Championship. Alongside his navigator, Holly Small, the team has demonstrated exceptional skill and determination on the water. In 2022, the team clinched the Australian 400 Class Championship, earning the coveted Australian Champion title. This achievement is a testament to the team's dedication and relentless pursuit of excellence. This January, Brendan and his team are set to make waves on the international stage, proudly representing Australia in the Group A Class at the UIM World Jetsprint Championships in New Zealand. With a brand-new Pulse hull, custom-built to their specifications, they're ready to launch the new Girlfriend and take on the world's best.Stay tuned for updates as they compete against the best at this month’s championship.Image: The Girlfriend team

Newly appointed Ivanhoe Rooster’s women’s assistant coach Brad Lawrence has wasted no time making his goals for the season known.“I honestly believe you ladies are the most talented team in the competition and with some solid structure no team will stop you,” Lawrence said.“I think if everyone knows we’re there supposed to be and their job on the field at all times it will build every players confidence, regardless of experience.“I’ve watched this group grow over the last few years and you have something special going on. My heart still hurts for you mob from last year and it’s my motivation for this year.”Lawrence will join Johnno Hart to lead the women’s squad, with training expected to commence on February 7. He said he wants to see all returning or prospective players at training.“It won’t be fitness as you are already training with other clubs or self-motivated enough; it will be a light warm up then a team run each time. “We also want to lean on our experience within the team, but it needs to be at training so we are not leaning on them on the field and burning them out.”“Let’s start early and give them hell come May,” Lawrence added.Dwayne Evan will coach the men’s side, with support from assistant coach Jay Little.

Jye Thompson set to return to Hay MagpiesAfter sitting out rugby league for several seasons’, local talent Jye Thomspon has been confirmed as the latest signing for Hay Magpies.Magpies first-grade coach Chris Stewart confirmed the signing late last week.“That’s been our focus when recruiting for this season,” he said. “We want local blokes back playing for Hay.”Holbrook-based Thompson has had several successful seasons playing in the tough Group 9 competition with Albury Thunder, and Stewart plans to use his strength and experience to Hay’s advantage.“He’ll slot him into the front or second row,” Stewart said.Thompson joins a slew of returning local talent who have committed to the Magpies Group 20 finals push in 2025. Will Barnes has migrated home to Hay after several seasons with Leeton Greens and a stint playing in France with hard-hitting cousin Ben Arandt. Arandt has also signed with Hay.Also returning to the Magpies is Shaun Aylett, fresh from a grand final appearance in the ProTen competition, and Harley Hey. Hey was persuaded out of retirement by the Magpies.The Magpies ran their first men’s training session last week, which Stewart says was well attended.“We still have some players working away, on holidays or otherwise unavailable, but we have around 30 players already committed to the season.”The Club has confirmed it will field both first and reserve grade this year, with Zac O’Neill appointed a reserve grade coach.“Zac and I will train the squads together for the next few months,” Stewart said.“He has a core team of six or eight blokes already.”Stewart also confirmed the Magpies have entered the West Wyalong knockout, to be played across the weekend of February 28 and March 1.The 52nd annual carnival is offering a prize pool of more than $30,000.“It was Zane Gash’s idea for us to enter,” Stewart said. “It will be a good test for us. A good hit out to see where we are at.”The Magpies will then play two pre-season trial games in Wagga Wagga the following weekend against South City Bulls and Queanbeyan Blues.Men’s training is held on Tuesdays at 6 pm at the number 1 oval in Hay Park.

Hay Lions continue to pave the way towards another solid AFL season, announcing several player signings to round out 2024. The club has also unveiled a skilled and experienced coaching team. Locals Brad Pocock and Tom McGufficke will play lead roles in the senior squad. McGufficke has been named as assistant coach, supporting co-coaches Jason Aylett and James Moran. “A dedicated and fearless player who can play almost any position on the field,” Hay Lions said. Pocock will co-captain the senior Lions side, and is the on-field assistant coach. “Poey is a natural leader whose passion for the Lions is clear both on and off the field. “On the field, he’s a fearless defender who can lock down dangerous forwards and then also create attacking play. “His vocal leadership and strategic mindset make him a player you don’t want to face.” Jack Headon will join the Lions for season 2025. Headon took out the 2024 Golden Rivers Mark of the Year trophy. “Jack has already played plenty of senior footy between GWS Academy, Geelong Falcons and school commitments, but we are excited to have him in the Lion’s Den for all of season 2025. “A young cub but one with plenty of experience, Jack will also be assisting Jase and Jimmy in the coaching ranks.” Above: Dylan Collis will take to the field for Hay Lions this season. Image: Waratahs Football ClubIn an exciting development Dylan Collis will join brother Will at the Hay club. “Dyl is fresh off playing his 100th game for Waratah in the Northern Territory and his footy resume is something to get very excited about. We cannot wait to see him run around in Lions colours next season. “We saw what Will could do last season, a dynamic midfielder who can sneak forward and kick bags of goals. The former Sydney Swans skipper is a true leader on the field.” Further player announcements are expected soon.

McDonald’s Australia has partnered with Cricket NSW as part of its Community Grants for 2024.Two young cricket players in NSW will have the opportunity to win $2,500 in development funding, an exclusive ‘money-can’t-buy’ experience at Cricket NSW’s Cricket Central, and an interview opportunity for a crew member role at their local Macca’s.Applications are open now until 11.59pm (AEST) on Tuesday, January 14. Two grants are available for NSW residents aged 14 – 18 (inclusive). To apply, parents or guardians need to submit an application online at this link- https://www.maccascommunitygrants.com/terms-cricketWinners will be notified by email and telephone by 5pm on Monday January 20, for Cricket NSW.

The annual Carrathool Races have announced a new date for the outback picnic race day.Traditionally held in late February or early March, the 2025 race day will instead be held on Saturday, April 12.Carrathool Jockey Club, led by president Hamish Armstrong, told The Area News the change of date was outside their control. The initial date provided by Racing NSW was early in February, and Mr Armstrong said they felt it ran the risk of hot weather impacting crowd numbers and the health of the race horses and jockeys.Ticketing and marquee information is yet to be released, but plans are underway for the Fashions on the Field contest and the unique Jackaroo and Jillaroo Dash foot races.The Carrathool Jockey Club was established in 1883 and has hosted country racing for 136 years.Image: Margie McClelland

ProTen's newest president crowned Battler of the YearBy Tallon SmithWe have arrived at the pointy end of the year, and it is time to crown our 2024 Battlers For Bush Footy Battler of the Year.The Battler of the Year is the most prestigious award given by Battlers For Bush Footy, to the player or volunteer that does the most for a club or the game across regional Australia.The award is in line with the mission statement of Battlers For Bush Footy, which is to “positively promote and share the spirit of the game of rugby league in regional New South Wales and beyond.”Each of the nominees and the eventual winner is selected by myself, Tallon Smith, the founder and editor of Battlers For Bush Footy, based upon the impact on the game as observed by myself and my friends, acquaintances and contacts across the state.Therefore, after a thorough decision making process and much speculation, we would like to announce the 2024 Battler of the Year…Kurt Longford (President, Deniliquin Blue Heelers, Group 17)Battler of the Year Kurt Longford (left) with Tallon Smith. Image: Battlers for Bush Footy.After initially being formed in 1964, and going on to win three consecutive premierships between 1969 and 1971, the Blueheelers folded in 1977.A subsequent attempt was made to re-establish the game in the region via the Deniliquin Raiders, who competed in the Victorian Rugby League’s Goulburn Murray competition in the early 1990s, but that ultimately proved futile.Enter Longford, with a list of previous clubs longer than Tyran Smith or Blake Green, and a passion for the game that would rival that of people such as Rex Mossop, Ray Warren or Andrew Voss.After playing for the Darlington Point-Coleambally Roosters reserves last year, a chance phone call with The Battler himself spawned the idea for restarting a league club in Deniliquin, where Longford happened to be moving.Kurt then grabbed onto what was intended to be a throwaway line in a conversation from yours truly, taking the idea and turning it into reality against all odds.Tallon Smith is a sports writer and the founder of Battlers for Bush Footy website.

Hillston Bluebirds have announced their 2025 coaches.Tommy Brettschneider has been appointed the men’s coach, while Jed Webster will lead the women's squad, when the Bluebirds take to the field in the 2025 ProTen Cup competition.The Club also recently announced their recently elected committee, which includes both coaches, who will take on dual roles for their club.Led by president Grant McMaster and vice-president Tommy Brettschneider the committee consists of Jed Webster, Amber Clarke-Baldock, Mel Jane, Kate Takle, Hazel Hackett, Brittany Olivares, Leah Rudman, Mel Stuttard, Ben Pittman, Zoe Gregory, Rorie O’Hara and Agata Piaskowska.From left: Jed Webster, president Grant McMaster and Tommy Brettschneider. Image: Hillston Bluebirds.

The NSWRL will make history in 2025 when it holds the first Regional Magic Round in Tamworth, which will feature nine games, 18 teams and 306 players over three days in May.The announcement was made today by NSWRL Chief Executive David Trodden, Wests Tamworth Chief Communications Officer Paddy Donnelly and Group 4 Chair Lad Jones at Scully Park in West Tamworth, which will host the event in 2025.The festival of Rugby League will be held on 9-11 May, with a full round of the Group 4 competition and five matches of The Knock-On Effect NSW Cup on Saturday and Sunday.“The NSWRL is looking forward to hosting the 2025 NSWRL Regional Magic Round in Tamworth to acknowledge the wonderful contribution that Regional NSW has made to our great game for more than a century,” NSWRL Chief Executive David Trodden said.“There will be a lot of work involved to successfully execute the three-day event and I thank Wests Tamworth for their support in making it happen. The Group 4 competition will be showcased around five games of the state’s premier competition, The Knock-On Effect NSW Cup.“There will be other activations and events for families to enjoy and I encourage everyone from the region to come along next year and show their support.”The NSWRL has held Magic Rounds in previous seasons at iconic Rugby League grounds including Henson Park and North Sydney Oval, but 2025 will be the first time the event is held in regional NSW.Group 4 teams Werris Creek Magpies and Gunnedah Bulldogs will kick-off proceedings on Friday night, with the other games to be played including Narrabri Blues v Kootingal-Moonbi Roosters, Moree Boars v Dungowan Cowboys and Boggabri Kangaroos v North Tamworth Bears.The Knock-On Effect NSW Cup matches include Manly Warringah Sea Eagles v Sydney Roosters, Newcastle Knights v North Sydney Bears, Newtown Jets v St George Illawarra Dragons, Parramatta Eels v Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs and Penrith Panthers v Western Suburbs Magpies.The three-day event will also include a Sportsman’s Lunch to be attended by True Blues and the local community, and other activations including Rugby League clinics, school visits and the Changing Rooms Mental Fitness community program.Wests Tamworth Chief Communications Officer Paddy Donnelly said the 2025 Regional Magic Round was a great result for the area.“The Wests Entertainment Group is proud to partner with NSWRL and Group 4 to bring their Regional Magic Round to Tamworth,” Donnelly said.“This event highlights the Group’s commitment to delivering the best live experiences for our community and marks an exciting opportunity to strengthen our relationship with NSWRL, while showcasing the region’s love for Rugby League.”Group 4 Chair Lad Jones said he expected the event to be well supported by local communities.“It is really great news for the region; it will attract a lot of people and bring great exposure for Rugby League within the area,” Jones said.“Having Group 4 first grade included as well is nothing but great news; it will bring great exposure to our competition and enable Group 4 to be front and centre to showcase the great player talent in our area.“Wests are a massive supporter of Group 4 Rugby League and Rugby League in the wider region and have been for a lot of years.“It is exciting for them and NSWRL to bring such a massive event to Tamworth and to allow our competition to share the weekend at a premier Rugby League venue in Scully Park.”

The location of 2025 Koori Knockout was announced, with it set to take place in Tamworth in 2025.It’ll be the first time the city has hosted the prestigious tournament, where both current and future stars of the NRL will be on show.Taking place on October 3 - October 6 (long weekend) at Riverside Sporting Complex Tamworth, NSW, the honour of hosting the event was secured by WAC, who triumphed at the 2024 Koori Knockout in Bathurst.The Koori Knockout is a rugby league competition that brings together Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander teams from across New South Wales. Its significance extends beyond the playing field. The Koori Knockout is a powerful demonstration of pride, unity and resilience, offering a platform to showcase emerging talent, while also fostering connections among First Nations communities.The Koori Knockout has grown to be one of the largest Indigenous sporting events in the world. In 2024, the tournament featured an extraordinary 138 teams, including current and former NRL and NRLW stars, showcasing the immense talent and passion within First Nations communities. The event attracted a live audience of 30,000 attendees and reached an impressive 500,000 viewers through television broadcasts, underlining its importance to the wider Australian public.