From Menindee to Immortal: How ‘Skinny’ McMillan Revolutionised Rugby LeagueIn ShortThe Innovator: Known as the first running fullback, McMillan revolutionised the game by injecting himself into the attack, moving away from the traditional defensive-only role.Bush Roots to Global Stages: Born in Menindee, NSW, he rose to captain the Kangaroos and even played in the match that introduced rugby league to France.Dual-Club Legend: A Hall of Famer who won premierships with Western Suburbs and later became the foundation coach of the Parramatta Eels in 1947.Frank ‘Skinny’ McMillan was an Australian rugby league footballer and coach. He was a full-back for the Australian national team and played in nine Tests between 1929 and 1934, two as captain. In 2008 McMillan named amongst the nation's finest players of the game, when he became the 19th inductee into the National Rugby League Hall of Fame.McMillan was born in Menindee, in the far west of NSW but his father's employment as a Police Officer ensured that the family moved to different locations in the State. The family eventually settled at Parramatta and as a school boy, Frank represented NSW Schools against Queensland Schools in soccer, but it was rugby league that Frank settled on. He played his junior rugby league with the Parramatta Endeavours Club from 1917 until 1920. Other members of the Parramatta Endeavours team included future Wests First Grade players, Joseph Drew, and Joshua Plumb. He was graded with the Western Suburbs Magpies in 1921. He played fourteen seasons of first grade rugby league all with Wests, aside from the 1925 season which he spent playing for the Balmain Tigers.During McMillan's long career Wests were premiers in season 1930 and 1934 and runners-up in 1932. He was captain-coach of Wests in season 1934.He made his New South Wales representative debut in 1922 and 12 years later he was still the state's preferred fullback. He made 22 New South Wales appearances.His debut national selection was for the 1929–30 Kangaroo tour of Great Britain. He played in four Tests and 22 minor tour matches. He was the first Australian international representative to come from the Parramatta juniors.In 1932 he played in all three Tests of the domestic Ashes series.For the 1933–34 Kangaroo tour of Great Britain McMillan was named as captain-coach, captaining the side in the two Tests and in 19 minor tour matches including a demonstration match in Paris which introduced rugby league football to France.Frank McMillan is listed on the Australian Players Register as Kangaroo No. 154Accolades and playing styleMcMillan's opposing captain and fullback for the 1933 series was British rugby league legend Jim Sullivan. Both players ended their representative careers in the third Test at Swinton. Some critics rated McMillan's performances as superior to those of the extraordinary Sullivan.Whiticker's reference suggests that McMillan revolutionised Australian fullback play and quotes rugby league scribe Tom Goodman.“McMillan began the era of the running fullback. If not the pioneer of attacking play, then certainly the most exciting crowds had seen. He would make daring bursts from his own goal-line, he exploited the scissors move with team-mates, he used the punt sparingly but skillfully, and although he is not rated in the same heights as Churchill, as a fullback, whose defence equalled his brilliant attack, he made many gallant tackles of big men.”According to the NRL McMillan modernised the role of the fullback.“Apart from having the usual fullback qualities of sure defence, safe hands and a kicking game, McMillan injected himself into the attack more than any previous player in that position, thus establishing a blueprint for his successors.”In September 2004 McMillan was named at fullback in the Western Suburbs Magpies team of the century. In February 2008, McMillan was named in the list of Australia's 100 Greatest Players (1908–2007) which was commissioned by the NRL and ARL to celebrate the code's centenary year in Australia.Post playingHe coached Western Suburbs in 1936, and again in 1945. In 1947 he was the foundation coach of the newly introduced Parramatta Eels.Frank McMillan passed away on Boxing Day, December 26, 1966, not long after his 67th birthday.

From Hillston to the SCG: Vale Eric ‘Ecca’ Robinson, the ‘Legend’ Who Built a Rugby League DynastyIn ShortThe Debut: Eric Robinson became Rabbitoh #478 at just 18 years old, scoring 8 tries in his first 10 First Grade games.The Dynasty: "Ecca" sired a legendary lineage of speed, including son Ricky Walford and grandsons Nathan Merritt and the Robinson twins.The Legacy: Beyond the field, he served as an honorary Elder for the Babana Aboriginal Men’s Group, mentoring generations of Indigenous athletes.Eric Michael Robinson, the man they called "The Legend," passed away on 14 November 2024, aged 82, leaving behind a legacy that continues in Australia rugby league.Born in Hillston, NSW, on 11 June 1942, Robinson’s speed carried him all the way to the hallowed grounds of the Sydney Cricket Ground. To the fans, he was "Ecca"; to the defenders he left clutching at thin air, he was a nightmare in a footy jumper.A Meteoric RiseAfter relocating from the Riverina to Sydney, Robinson’s journey began at just 15 with the Alexandria Rovers, quickly graduating to the Redfern All Blacks. By 1960, he steered the South Sydney Presidents Cup side to a premiership, crossing the tryline in the final against Eastern Suburbs.His ascent through the grades was incredible. After scoring on debut in Third Grade and backing it up the following week in Reserve Grade, Robinson was handed the First Grade jersey in Round 1 of 1961. At just 18 years of age, he became South Sydney Rabbitohs Player #478.That debut season was the stuff of folklore. In just 10 appearances, the lightning-fast winger crossed for eight tries, including a scintillating hat-trick against Canterbury in Round 5."He didn't just run around opponents; he danced past them," recalled one longtime Redfern resident. "That sidestep was pure instinct, a flash of movement that left the best cover defenders looking like they were stuck in the mud."Beyond the BurrowAfter 80 senior games for the Rabbitohs (1960–64), Robinson took his talents on the road. He became a prolific point-scorer for Maitland and Brisbane Wests, where he finished as the Brisbane Rugby League’s top try-scorer in 1972, and represented Western Division while playing out of Bourke.Yet, the pull of the inner city was too strong. He eventually returned to his roots, finishing his playing days with the Redfern All Blacks.A Dynasty of GreatnessWhile Ecca’s boots were eventually hung up, his DNA remained etched in the NRL record books. He sired a dynasty of speedsters, including his son, Ricky Walford, and his grandsons: the prolific Nathan Merritt, and the fleet-footed twins Travis and Reece Robinson.Achievements at a GlanceThe accolades Eric earned throughout his life serve as a testament to his contribution to the sport and his community. In 2003, his decades of service were formally recognised with Life Membership of the South Sydney DRLFC, followed by a similar honour from his beloved Redfern All Blacks. His on-field brilliance was further immortalised in 2008 when he was named in the Alexandria Rovers ‘60 Years of the Best’ Team, confirming his status as one of the finest to ever pull on a boot in the South Sydney juniors. More Than a FootballerIn his later years, Eric became a cornerstone of the Inner Sydney community. As an honorary Elder at the Babana Aboriginal Men’s Group, he wasn't just a former footy player; he was a mentor, a storyteller, and leader.He paved the way for Indigenous stars to not only play the game but to own it. When we watch the modern winger skip down the touchline today, we see a shadow of the man from Hillston.Vale, Eric Robinson. The Legend lives on.

In short:Balranald footballer Lucas Griffiths has been selected for the Bendigo Pioneers' finalised 2026 Under 18 boys squad in the NAB League, Victoria's premier junior football pathway competitionThe NAB League serves as a key development pathway to AFL level, with many current AFL players having progressed through the competitionBalranald Football Netball Club praised Griffiths' selection as a reward for his hard work, with the Roos family expressing pride in his achievementBalranald's Griffiths selected for Bendigo Pioneers squadLucas Griffiths from Balranald has been named in the Bendigo Pioneers' finalised 2026 Under 18 boys squad, representing a significant achievement for the young footballer.The Bendigo Pioneers compete in the NAB League, formerly known as the TAC Cup, which serves as Victoria's premier pathway competition for talented junior footballers aged 16 to 18. The league provides young players with opportunities to develop their skills and potentially progress to AFL level.Balranald Football Netball Club congratulated Griffiths on his selection, describing it as a fantastic achievement and a reward for his hard work."The whole Roos family is proud of you mate, we can't wait to watch you take this opportunity with both hands," the club posted on social media.The Bendigo Pioneers announced their finalised Under 18 boys squad earlier this week, with the Under 16 boys squad to be announced at the beginning of March.Selection in an NAB League squad is considered a prestigious accomplishment for junior footballers, with many AFL players having progressed through the pathway competition. The league provides elite-level coaching, training facilities and regular competition against other top Victorian talent.Griffiths will join players from across the Bendigo region in the squad, which draws from areas including Pyramid Hill, South Mildura, Kerang, Golden Square, Echuca and Sandhurst among others.The 2026 NAB League season will provide Griffiths with exposure to scouts and recruiters as he continues his football development.

Proten Cup Leveling Up: Men’s Competition Switches to Full International RulesBy Jamie ParsonsIn Short:Full Contact Rules: The Proten Cup men’s competition moves from Safeplay to full international rules for 2026, aligning with Group 20 standards.Club Backing: Local clubs voted 5-1 for the change following an increase in NSWRL registration fees to $162.Scheduling Flexibility: The change removes the 10-game limit, allowing for more trials and potential future expansion of the six-round season.The Proten Cup is set for its most significant transformation since its 2018 inception, as the men’s competition officially moves to full international rules for the 2026 season. After years of operating under the "Safeplay Code"—designed to limit high-impact contact—the league will now align with Group 20 and broader NSW Country Rugby League standards.The decision follows a period of transition for the competition, which recently saw Deniliquin join to briefly create a seven-team field before Narrandera’s return to Group 20 late last year restored the league to six teams.Breaking Down the Rule ChangesThe shift brings the Proten Cup in line with the standard game played across the state. Key changes for the 2026 men's season include:Defensive Line: The defensive line will move back to 10 metres, doubling the previous 5-metre requirement.Markers: Teams will now utilize two markers instead of one.Tackling: The "two players in a tackle" restriction has been removed.Contact Guidelines: While the Safeplay Code strictly banned any lifting, ankle taps, and aggressive palms, international rules allow for more traditional contact while maintaining modern safety standards to prevent dangerous play.Registration Fees and Club VotingThe move was largely driven by a change in NSWRL registration costs. After seven seasons of paying $80, clubs were notified of a full registration charge of up to $162 for 2026. Faced with these increased costs, clubs voted 5-1 in favor of adopting international rules to maximize the value of their registrations.Impact on the RegionFor the local government areas of Hay, Balranald, Carrathool, and Central Darling, this rule change offers clubs more freedom than ever before. Under the previous Safeplay regulations, teams were restricted to a maximum of 10 games per season.Under the new 2026 format:Unlimited Games: Teams can now schedule as many trial games as they wish.Future Expansion: The shift removes previous barriers to competition growth, though the 2026 season is confirmed to remain at six rounds plus finals.Women’s Competition: Notably, the women’s competition will not transition at this time, remaining under the existing Safeplay code and nine’s rules.

Premiership Pedigree: Craig Morriss Returns to Coaching to Lead TLU Sharks’ 2026 ChargeIn shortThe New Duo: 2017 premiership-winning coach Craig Morriss returns to the Group 20 sidelines to co-coach the TLU Sharks alongside debutant mentor Cody Collins.The Strategy: The Sharks will utilise a bench-and-field leadership model, with Collins leading on-park and Morriss providing tactical oversight from the sidelines.The Goal: After several seasons outside the top five, the club is eyeing a 2026 finals return with a squad primarily built on local talent.TLU Sharks 2026 coaching duo - Cody Collins (left) and Craig Morriss.A new era will begin at Tullibigeal-Lakes United this season after Craig Morriss and Cody Collins were announced as the club’s 2026 first grade coaches last week.The pair replace Nathan Morris, who will remain at the club as a player this season after two seasons in the top job.Morriss said that it was a conversation with his almost-namesake Morris that sealed a return to coaching in the local competition with the Sharks alongside Collins this year.“I was just speaking to Nathan Morris one day about footy and how his club was going, and he just asked if I had any spare time and was interested in coming out and helping out Cody, who will be in his first year of coaching,” he said.“So, I thought, ‘yeah, not’, it’s a pretty strong club out there and a strong community, it’d be good to see them start working their way back up the ladder with what they’ve got out there, so it was a good way to get back on the horse of footy coaching again I suppose, [after] not doing it for a couple of years.”A proven first grade mentor, Morriss has a premiership title to his name dating back to the 2017 season, when he led the Griffith Black and Whites to their first title in 19 years.After handing the reins to club stalwart Andrew Lavaka following that triumph, Morriss has kept a low profile since, assisting his successor when needed and also helping with the region’s representative team.“I was assistant to Aaron Gorrell there for a couple of years with the Riverina team, and that’s about it,” he said.“I’ve helped out a few times with Black and Whites with Andrew while he was there every now and again, just going to a training run, but that’s about it really.“So I’ve had a pretty good break, just doing little bits and pieces, just going and helping out with some junior clubs and stuff every now and then.”One interesting part of the coaching team will be the dynamic between the playing coach in Collins and non-playing leader in Morriss.The formula is becoming more and more popular in bush footy, with Leeton’s Shan Bradbrook and Michael Thomas and Waratahs duo Willie Lolohea and Brett Goldspink also running with a similar setup in recent years.In fact, Morriss' greatest Group 20 success came working under the structure, working alongside playing mentor Andrew Lavaka as co-coaches in the Black & Whites' aforementioned 2017 triumph.Morriss said that he is approaching the role with the idea of acting as a sounding board and source of advice for Collins as he prepares to take charge of the team for the first time.“It will be good, I’m sort of there just to offer advice I suppose and support him in what he does, but he’s a really good young fella and he’s keen as mustard, and he’s a 100 percent boots and all in sort of fella,” he said.“He’ll be the main driver there and I’ll be in the background supporting him, and helping him out where I can.”In addition to offering advice, Morriss believes that the flexibility of having an on-field leader who can make a direct impact, as well as a sideline eye who can run the bench is also a beneficial model on game day.“He’ll be fairly busy on the field, concentrating on getting the team around the park, so obviously to have someone on the bench who is watching the game from a different lens, and making those changes when they’re needed, and picking out areas we need to play on or whatever, is pretty handy for an on-field coach, so I think it works out pretty well,” he said.“Most clubs have got that sort of setup at the moment, where they’ve got the coach and they’ve got someone running their bench and looking at those things when they’re involved in the game.”The Sharks have been one of the battlers this decade in Group 20, failing to qualify for the finals since the cancelled pandemic seasons, despite being around the top five for periods in many of those years.Morriss said that with the squad the club has and the leadership of figures such as Collins, former coach Morris and veterans such as Jaden Kelly, he believes the club is well-placed to make a return to finals football should things go right this year.“I think if things go to plan injury wise and everything else like every other club I suppose, you definitely think you’ll want to be in the mix for the finals,” he said.“We had our first training run Friday night, got quite a few people there, I think the side won’t be much different to last year, predominantly all local fellas, and they’re all keen to go.“We can iron a few things out and adjust our game plan and stuff to suit what we’ve got and we’ll see how we go.”TLU’s season will begin with a clash against Hay at Leeton on the weekend of April 11-12 as part of Group 20’s Magic Round.

Gladiators Gallop Home: Group 9 Overpower Razorbacks in Kelly Cup ComebackIn ShortThe Turnaround: After trailing 12-10 at halftime, Group 9 unleashed a five-try scoring blitz in the second half to win 36-12.Standout Stars: Kate Foley bagged a double for the Gladiators, while Wendy Gonevulavula proved a "level above" for the Razorbacks despite the loss.Pathway to Country: The match served as a primary selection trial for the Riverina side ahead of the Country Championships in Parkes.A stunning second half performance from Group 9 has turned a two point half time deficit into a 36-12 victory in the women’s Kelly Cup match against Group 20 at Yenda’s Wade Park on Saturday.Dana Seward opened the scoring for the Gladiators, before the Razorbacks hit back through a stunning runaway effort from fullback Wendy Gonevulavula to level the game at 6-all.Group 20 then took the lead when Monique Higgins followed another of Gonevulavula’s efforts to score under the posts, before converting her own try for a 12-6 lead.However, the margin was reduced to two heading into half time, when Kate Foley scooped up a loose ball and raced away to score for Group 9.The second half was a much different story to the opening stanza, with Group 9 dominating the play with five tries to seal a comfortable victory.Caitlin Blackford started the avalanche, crashing over from short range, before Abbey Flanagan raced in under the posts to extend the margin to 22-12.The floodgates were well and truly open when Foley scored her second, with Josey Hoey and Shania McKinnon also scoring four pointers late to secure a 24-point victory for the Gladiators.Group 9 coach Damian Willis said that while he was happy with the victory, he was more looking forward to the further representative opportunities on offer for the players as a result of the match.“It’s creating a pathway for our female tackle [playersl] in our region,” he said.“The winner predominantly has the majority of the Riverina players selected for the Country Championships, so it’s a great concept and hopefully it can continue moving forward.“There’s not a lot of pathway programs around for the older ladies in our region, and hopefully they got to showcase some of their talents and some people were watching and taking notice and they can move on to bigger and better things.”Group 20 shocked many when they took a narrow lead into half-time, much to the delight of a largely pro-Razorbacks Wade Park crowd.When asked if he was surprised by the way the home side started the match, Willis said that he expected Group 20 to be ready for the contest given the hype surrounding the clash.“I wasn’t surprised, I knew that Jay [Little] would have them ready to go [and was] prepared for what was to come,” he said.“They came out of the blocks pretty quickly, and not surprised us but stunned us a little bit, and one of the things we struggled with, we didn’t complete sets early.“Once we were able to complete our sets of six, kick to corners and build some pressure, our fitness showed overall after that.”On a personal note, the victory was yet another rugby league achievement for the highly regarded Group 9 coach, with Willis adding the coaching title to his Kelly Cup victories as a player.“To win it in my first crack at it, I’ve won it as a player and it is good to win it as a coach as well,” he said.On the other side of the equation, the Razorbacks may have lost the match, but a strong showing, particularly in the first half, demonstrated the rapid growth and improvement of women’s rugby league in the district.Group 20 assistant coach Kelly Pauls said that she was proud of the way the side performed in the 13-a-side match, after the majority of players had played only nines tackle football at club level.“I’m super proud of the girls, going from 9 to 13 players across the field, the girls were just super keen in how they played the game,” she said. “It was just fitness in the end in that second half, and with the extra five players, we had players playing out of position.”The standout player for the Razorbacks in their first half surge was fullback Gonevulavula, who scored and effectively set up the side’s two tries.Group 20 women’s coach Jay Little said she looked a level above other players at points, while also praising another of his outside backs for her performance.“Wendy’s a standout player in our competition, as shown by yesterday’s performance, though she didn’t get as many opportunities as we would have liked,” he said.“She had a significant injury and still returned to the field and had a positive impact.“She was complemented by Lina Smith in the centres, and the go forward from our forwards gave her that platform.”Little also paid tribute to his partner and assistant coach Pauls, who played a massive role in getting the team together with a limited lead in.“Special mention to Kelly, without her we wouldn’t have been able to get the girls on board,” he said.“Having that gender balance in the coaching setup was a big thing, and she just wants to create pathways for the younger girls.”The Riverina teams is expected to be announced shortly ahead of its first Country Championships match against Western Rams in Parkes on Saturday.

Fourteen Years of Dominance: Group 9 Claims Kelly Cup in Gritty Yenda ClashIn ShortThe Streak Continues: Group 9 defeated Group 20 28-10 at Wade Park, marking their 14th consecutive year holding the Kelly Cup.Defensive Masterclass: The "Gladiators" held the Razorbacks scoreless for the first 72 minutes, led by a best-on-ground performance from fullback Daniel Foley.Selection Stakes: Despite the loss, Group 20 showed significant improvement from 2022, with both sides now looking toward Riverina Bulls selection for the March 1 Country Championships.Group 9 has retained the Kelly Cup for a fourteenth straight year after defeating a gallant Group 20 outfit 28-10 in a physical clash at Wade Park in Yenda on Saturday evening.Playing in 31-degree heat, the Gladiators held the Razorbacks scoreless for the opening 72 minutes and took their opportunities when presented to retain the title and Riverina bragging rights for a 14th straight year.After a ferocious softening up period, it was Group 9 who emerged the better of the two sides, opening the scoring in the 10th minute when Daniel Foley burst into space off a Paul Karaitiana pass to put Gabriel Gul over in the corner for a 4-0 lead.After another hard fought period to end the first quarter, Group 9 put the foot down in the second, racing out to a 16-0 half time lead with back-to-back tries to Albury Thunder flyer Vili Cerei and Junee veteran Foley in quick succession.Group 20 had its chances, spending long periods camped on the Group 9 line on either side of the break, but the Gladiators held firm, fending off wave after wave of attack from the Razorbacks to keep a clean sheet.The moment of the match came late in the third quarter, when veteran Group 20 coach Ben Jeffery showed he still has plenty of pace, chasing down a runaway Dakota Ruta after the centre scooped up a loose ball and raced away downfield.The effort wasn’t ultimately rewarded however, with Group 9 spreading the ball to Gul two plays later who scored a simple try in the corner for his double.The Gladiators then put the result beyond doubt when Gundagai hooker Wilson Hamblin finished off a short side raid he started, backing up in support and racing in under the posts to score off a pass from Dakota Ruta.Not wanting to be held to nil on their home turf, Group 20 finally breached the Group 9 defence in the 72nd minute, running in two late consolation tries, with Beniel Dakunibubului and Sireli Vulaono scoring four pointers to leave the final margin at 18 points.Following the Gladiators’ victory, fullback Foley and Razorbacks lock Ulai Oti-Lahood were awarded best on ground for their respective sides.Speaking after the game, Group 9 captain Derek Hay said he was proud of his side for getting the job done in a match that was scrappy at times.“Unfortunately it was pretty stop-start, I don’t think either side could get into their rhythm, I thought there were some strange calls out there,” he said.“We did what we had to do, I think it’s always tough when you have to play at this time of the year, everyone is rusty, but I do think with the crowd that was here today, I think this is the best time of year to have it, I think it leads nicely into the Country Championships with Riverina.“It was a tough, physical game, there are some big boys out here in Group 20 and obviously there’s some strong physical boys in Group 9.“I think we went toe-to-toe for probably that first ten to fifteen and then we might have started to get the upper hand, but we probably kept them in it for a bit too long with errors and penalties.“All in all, a pretty good performance.”Above (from left): Group 20's Brad Pocock and Ben Jeffry, with Group 9 Gladiator Daniel FoleyAfter the fixture was left off the schedule for the past three years following uncompetitive clashes in the past, fears grew that the Kelly Cup’s standing as a major representative rivalry may have waned.However, Hay said that the Group 9 side placed huge importance on the match, a mindset which showed when they took to the field at Wade Park.“We spoke about it for the last two weeks at training and spoke about it before we ran out, we’re representing Group 9, and we’re representing our individual clubs,” he said.“It’s important to showcase the strength we have in our competition, obviously we fielded a fair side out there today and we still were still missing a few players through other commitments.“I do think Group 9 is a much stronger competition, but there’s still some quality Group 20 players and there is obviously going to be a couple of those guys in the Riverina side.“I think it’s important that the Kelly Cup is played every year and like I said before the crowd here today, it actually surprised me, so that was really good to see that people are still hungry for their footy and hungry to watch the Kelly Cup.”Victorious Group 9 coach Blake Dunn echoed the sentiments of his skipper, speaking of the reverence and respect that the Gladiators approached the fixture with.“We’re obviously very pleased, there’s a lot of prestige around the award, the Kelly family are obviously very important around this region and area, so we’re very happy to earn the right to keep it again,” he said.After being forced to make several changes due to player unavailability, Group 9 showcased its depth, fielding a strong team despite the withdrawal of a number of stars.When asked which of his players’ efforts he was most pleased with, Dunn said he was happy with the team across the board, but singled out a few who went above and beyond, including one of the late inclusions in Foley.“I thought there were some really good contributions across the field, I don’t think we had any bad players today,” he said.“I think Daniel Foley, who obviously was named man of the match and he was our players’ player as well, was a standout, I thought he did really well.“In attack he created some opportunities for us, but in defence, he just looked like he had our whole line organised the whole time, [and] he came up with some really important defensive plays, he was definitely a standout.“We had some really big efforts from blokes in our forward pack like Mitch Bennett, [who] got through a full game at lock, tackling his backside off, the same goes for John [Downes] in the back row, and Wilson Hamblin came up with some really big defensive plays.“There [were] players that were unavailable, but I was very pleased with the side that we got together and were able to put on the field today.“I’m not sure we could have done any better under the conditions that we were playing under today, really proud of the boys, I thought it was a good effort.”One dampener on the match were injuries to Albury five-eighth Paul Karaitiana and Brothers star Cleve McGhie, with both limping from the field in the first half.Despite obvious concern from clubs regarding timing of the match in regards to injury, Dunn said that it still makes the most sense to hold the Kelly Cup in February as a lead-in to and selection trial for Riverina’s Country Championships campaign.“Injuries are a part of footy, you could get injured going for a jog on a Sunday [or] at training, unfortunately it’s just a part of footy,” he said.“I don’t think it makes sense to have it anyother time of the year, if you’ve got Riverina coming up at the end of February, you’ve got to have it [before] that, to pick the best possible side to represent our area.”On the other side of the ledger, while the 14-year drought continues for Group 20, an improved showing compared to the 52-6 demolition in 2022 will add weight to calls to re-instate the fixture as an annual event. Group 20 coach Ben Jeffery said that it was just errors at crucial times and some class from Group 9 that saw the Gladiators take the trophy home once again.“The first half was really close, [but they] scored tries off the back of our errors, and we bombed a few tries,” he said.“We’d get within inches of the line and just couldn’t get over.“We made a lot of errors [on the] first and second tackle.“We [only] had one ballwork session last night, [but] I thought everyone backed each other and we fought hard, but all credit to Group 9, we had a lot of sets on their line and they just kept turning us away.“They stuck at it all game, their structure was good, they played their short sides really well.”One big reason behind the push to bring back the Kelly Cup from Group 20’s side was to give players a chance to play in a full selection trial for the Riverina team after just three Group 20 players were picked last year.When asked if he believed many of his teammates would earn a Bulls jumper, Jeffery said that he thought a few of them certainly increased their chances through their performance.“You’d like to think so, a few of our guys went really well,” he said.“Group 9, they’re a quality team, they won, they will no doubt have the majority, but I think a couple of our guys definitely deserve to push for a spot.”The Riverina team will be selected in the coming days ahead of the region’s Country Championships opener against Monaro at Junee on March 1.In the curtain raiser women's match Group 9 also took the win - match report tomorrow.

The Bold Plan to Revive Rugby League in the Far WestIn ShortThe Comeback: After a three-year hiatus, NSWRL representative Blayne Murphy is leading a push to revive the game in the Far West and Sunraysia regions.Game-Changing Incentives: To lower barriers for players, the new competition model proposes zero registration costs and free transport to away games to combat rising fuel prices.Community Unity: Local coaches are calling for a dual-sport culture where Rugby League and AFL coexist to increase overall participation and social connection in Outback towns.After three seasons without football, rugby league is set to return to the Outback district after a renewed push from the region’s clubs and the appointment of a new NSWRL representative in the region.Passionate local Blayne Murphy will lead the state governing body’s effort to revive the game in the region, with incentives such as zero registration costs, free transport to and from away games and neutral officiating aimed at attracting players back to the game after a period of inactivity.Competition mainstays Menindee Yabbies, Wilcannia Boomerangs and Broken Hill’s Silver City Scorpions are expected to take the field in any new competition, while hopes are high that teams from Mildura, Robinvale and Wentworth will also be involved, after the NRL Victoria administered Sunraysia Rugby League competition folded in 2022.Silver City Scorpions First Grade coach Rossi Morris said that the return of the game would mean a lot to communities across the region.“It’s the heart and soul of a lot of these guys out here,” he said.“Broken Hill may be an AFL stronghold in the region, but a lot of the community and neighbouring communities love rugby league.“It [would] mean a lot to me if rugby league can get the continued support from community, local business, CBD sponsorships, and financial support.”Within the region, the towns of Menindee and Wilcannia are rugby league mainstays, fielding teams right back through to the original incarnation of the Outback Rugby League competition in 1980.Many players from these towns have continued playing the game in recent seasons, travelling long distances to join the Ivanhoe and Deniliquin clubs in the ProTen Community Cup.However, in Broken Hill, and the competition’s newly proposed towns of Wentworth, Mildura and Robinvale, Australian rules football holds sway, albeit with a growing rugby league community.Morris said that he hopes the sports could work together rather than against each other to increase sporting and social opportunities for people across the region.“It’s not a love-hate relationship out here, both sports should be sponsored, and should be supported,” he said.“If we can get more focused attention and support to run juniors, grassroots footy, then we’ll have a stronger base for rugby league, and it means so much to a lot of these guys out here to play it.“Some of them play AFL, some of them will back up play AFL one day and rugby league the next.“Back when it was Saturday games, they would play AFL that day, and then back up on the same day for rugby league, this is how much they love rugby league, they want to keep rugby league alive.“For our players, to be able to have a dual-sporting setup out here, makes for better community participation.”One incentive that Morris said will be most effective at attracting players is the free transport, after players relied on carpooling and paying huge out of pocket fuel costs for the lengthy away trips to games in the region.“That funding in regards to helping with transport and getting to and from games, especially away games, that would boost the support, that would boost the community involvement, and it would also boost the clubs’ confidence in running a successful competition,” he said.“Most of the clubs out here, the players organise carpooling, we can’t get the finances to hire a coach or a bus to take them.“It [was] probably going to pose a problem if we [got] teams from down south like Mildura, Dareton, Wentworth, same thing, those guys depend on carpooling [...] paying out of your own pocket.”With teams still building ahead of a potential return, interested players, sponsors and supporters are encouraged to reach out to their local club or via the Outback Rugby League’s facebook page.

In ShortSquad Overhauls: Both Group 9 and Group 20 have made massive late changes, with nine total players withdrawing from the men’s representative squads.Pocock’s Debut: Hay Magpies star Brad Pocock earns a shock late call-up for his first rep appearance, set to debut in an unfamiliar position on the wing.Match Times: Action kicks off at Wade Park, Yenda tomorrow, with the Women’s clash at 4:00 PM followed by the Men’s feature at 5:30 PM.Both Group 9 and Group 20 have made wholesale changes to their teams ahead of tomorrow’s Kelly Cup clash at Wade Park in Yenda.Four players have been called into the Group 9 team from outside the original squad after five team members withdrew from the 18-man side announced late last month.Fullback Daniel Foley, winger Vili Cerei, centre John Downes and interchange forward Waratana Hartley have been called into the Gladiators team to replace Mat Lyons, James Morgan, Hayden Philp, Shane Hannam and Joe Ward.The changes have also meant shuffles in the line-up, with Cody Hodge moving from fullback to centre, and Simione Naiduki elevated to starting front row from the bench.Meanwhile, Hay flyer Brad Pocock and Leeton enforcer Brandon Catlin have been called into the Group 20 team after the withdrawal of four squad members in Ulu Akolo, Sina Tatofi, Eseroma Nawaqa and Tupou Uhi. After the shock non-selection of any players from the Grand Finalist Magpies in the initial team, Pocock said he was very happy to receive the call-up from coach Ben Jeffery.“I’m pretty stoked about it to be honest,” he said.“I thought I played pretty good [last year] anyway, there wasn’t many people in these sort of positions that I would say beat me on any day through the games that I did play, so the selections did surprise me a little bit.”In by far the best season of his career, Pocock thrived at the Magpies in 2025, playing a central role in the team’s run to its first top grade Grand Final in 30 years.However, after spending the whole of last season at centre, a new challenge awaits him on Saturday, when he will play on the wing for the Razorbacks.“I’ve never played wing in my life so it will be interesting,” he said.“I played centre last year for the Magpies, but it’s not really my position either, I get stuck a lot, a lot of people try and get on the outside of you rather than running over you.“To be honest I’ve always entertained the idea that wing would be pretty well suited to me, I love catching the ball.“I never got to run back a kick return or anything like that, and that’s the sort of stuff I thoroughly enjoy, and obviously in attack, playing AFL before, [when it comes to] kicks, I generally start licking my lips over them.“It’ll be interesting, I’ll definitely enjoy it, that’s for sure.”Though he has previously played interleague Aussie Rules at a junior level, the call-up marks the first time that time Pocock will play representative rugby league, with the talented winger saying he was eager to make the most of the opportunity to make sure his mates know he is playing higher level footy.“I’ve never played Group 20 representative, because I didn’t play any juniors,” he said.“Senior rep doesn’t really happen that often, so I jumped at it.“I got into one of my mates and said I can’t wait to wear my Group 20 rep gear to school on Monday, because that’s what they used to do when we were younger.”On the women’s side of things there have also been a number of changes to both teams.Scarlett Wallace, Taylah Axtill and Sophia Kelsey have withdrawn from the Group 20 team, with Samantha Simpson and Jessie Carter coming into the side.Carter was initially thought to be ruled out after recent surgery but will take her place in the line-up.Group 20 Women’s assistant coach Kelly Pauls confirmed that the team may also call in an extra player before the match.Meanwhile, Maisy McCrone was not named in Group 9’s final team list after being picked in the original squad.The rest of the Group 9 team is identical to the one named two weeks ago.The women’s game will begin at 4pm, followed by the men’s clash at 5:30pm.Full Kelly Cup TeamsGroup 9 Men’s Team: 1. Daniel Foley (Junee), 2. Vili Cerei (Albury), 3. Dakota Ruta (Wagga Kangaroos), 4.Cody Hodge (South City), 5. Gabriel Gul (Gundagai), 6. Paul Karaitiana (Albury), 7. Derek Hay (Gundagai), 8. Simione Naiduki (Wagga Kangaroos), 9. Wilson Hamblin (Gundagai), 10. Nikola Sovatabua (Cootamundra), 11. John Downes (Wagga Kangaroos), 12. Cleveland McGhie (Wagga Brothers), 13. Mitchell Bennett (South City), 14. Kyle McCarthy (South City) 15. Faafetai Vaavale (Cootamundra), 16. Waratana Hartley (Wagga Brothers), 17. Brody Tracey (South City). Coach: Blake Dunn (Wagga Brothers)Group 20 Men's Team: 1. James Girdler (Griffith Waratahs), 2. James Tafiti (Leeton), 3. Chaise Sergi (DPC), 4. Billy Dickinson (Leeton), 5. Brad Pocock (Hay), 6. Ben Jeffery (DPC), 7. Jaden Kelly (TLU), 8. Elvis Nauer (Griffith Waratahs), 9. Nathan Morris (TLU), 10. Guy Thompson (DPC), 11. William Charles (Griffith Black & Whites), 12. Jon Huggett (DPC), 13. Ulai Oti-Lahood (Yanco), 14. Sireli Vulaono (Griffith Black & Whites), 15. Jim Ratulolo (Yanco), 16. Beniel Dakunibubului (Leeton), 17. Brandon Catlin (Leeton). Coach: Ben Jeffery (DPC)Group 9 Women’s Team: 1. Abbey Flanagan (Gundagai), 2. Kate Foley (Junee), 3. Josey Hoey (Young), 4. Alicia Haisell (Temora), 5. Abbey Field (Junee), 6. Kassie Hiscock (Estella), 7. Anabelle Willis (Junee), 19. Deanna Smith (Gundagai), 9. Milly Lucas (Estella), 12. Jorja Brennan (Estella), 11. Caitlin Blackford (Young), 13. Ivy Merlehan (Estella), 8. Emma Hickey (Junee), 14. Shania McKinnon (Young), 15. Dana Seward (Estella), 17. Keyarna Merritt-Wedge (South City), 10, Charlotte Gray (Young), 16. Claire Foley (Junee). Coach: Damian Willis (Junee)Group 20 Women’s Final Squad: Ellie Darlow (Hay), Janae Downey (West Wyalong), Olivia Downey (West Wyalong), Amie Fazekas (Yanco), Wendy Gonevulavula (Hay), Bobbi Goolagong (Griffith Black & Whites), Monique Higgins (Yanco), Zoey Ingram (Narrandera), Annie James (Yanco), Olivia Light-Wate (Narrandera), Christine McDonald (Yanco), Falesiu Chauncy-Moli (Griffith Black & Whites), Madison Morris (TLU), Lina Smith (Griffith Waratahs), Larissa Sorenson (Hay), Ashley Sterchow (Hay), Hannah Stewart (Hay), Claire Strachan (Yanco), Lily Weymouth (Hay), Samantha Simpson (Yanco), Jessie Carter (Hay). Coach: Jay Little, Assistant Coach: Kelly Pauls

Bush Sports Funding: The 2026 Playbook for Our Local Clubs and FamiliesIn ShortDouble Vouchers: Eligible families can now stack 2025 and 2026 vouchers for a $100 discount on kids' sports and creative fees.School Funding: Applications for Sporting Schools grants (up to $3,650) open February 16—parents are encouraged to nudge their school principals to apply.Club Upgrades: Results for the Local Sport Grant Program are being announced this month, potentially bringing up to $20,000 for facility repairs and gear.Families across Hay, Balranald, Carrathool, and Central Darling are well-acquainted with the "regional tax" on youth sports. Between the long-haul drives to away games and the mounting cost of registration, keeping kids active in the Far West and Riverina is a significant financial commitment.However, as of February 2026, a series of state and federal funding windows have opened, offering a much-needed financial reprieve for local households and community clubs.For parents receiving Family Tax Benefit Part A or B, a unique overlap in the voucher cycle means $100 is currently available per child.The second voucher from 2025 remains valid until July 14, 2026, while the first 2026 voucher has just been released. When used together at registered providers—covering everything from netball in Hay to swimming lessons in Balranald—they provide a $100 deduction from registration or equipment fees.Local schools are also in the spotlight this month. On February 16, 2026, applications open for the Term 2 Sporting Schools grants. Schools in remote and regional LGAs like Carrathool and Central Darling are particularly well-positioned, as they often qualify for additional funding to cover the high travel costs associated with bringing in qualified coaches.While parents cannot apply for these $1,000 to $3,650 grants themselves, the program is designed to run during school hours, ensuring kids who rely on afternoon bus schedules don't miss out.For the committees running our local clubs, February marks a month of anticipation. The outcomes of the 2025 Local Sport Grant Program are due for announcement. In the Murray electorate, which encompasses Hay and Balranald, significant funding is expected to flow toward facility upgrades and coach training.Additionally, the Local Sport Defibrillator Grant Program remains a critical priority. With up to $3,000 available to install AEDs, local leaders emphasize that these devices are a "no-brainer" for rural grounds where professional medical help may be many kilometers away.The key to securing these funds is preparation. Regional experts suggest that clubs in smaller communities often see their money go further, but success depends on being "shovel-ready."Successful applicants are encouraged to connect with their representatives. Helen Dalton, Member for Murray, and Sussan Ley, Member for Farrer, both maintain staff who track these funding cycles and can provide early notice and letters of support for local projects.While grant funding doesn't shorten the drive to the next carnival, for a small town club, it can be the difference between thriving and folding.To help our local schools and clubs in the Hay, Balranald, and Carrathool areas get their applications moving, here are the essential contact details and resources for the funding mentioned in the story.These offices are your first stop for letters of support or early intel on grant cycles.Helen Dalton, MP (Member for Murray)Hay/Griffith Office: 286 Banna Ave, Griffith NSW 2680Phone: (02) 6962 6644Email: [email protected] Hon. Sussan Ley, MP (Member for Farrer)Griffith Office: 152 Banna Ave, Griffith NSW 2680Phone: (02) 6964 1212Email: [email protected] & Club Grant SupportSporting Schools ProgramFor Schools: If you are nudging your principal, they can contact the Program Operations Centre for help with the February 16 application.Phone: 1300 785 707Email: [email protected] Office of Sport (Local Sport & Defibrillator Grants)Phone: 13 13 02Email: [email protected]: sport.nsw.gov.au/grantsVoucher AssistanceService NSWOnline: service.nsw.gov.auIn Person: Visit the Hay Service Centre at 122 Lachlan Street.

In ShortWhen & Where: Friday 27 February to Sunday 1 March 2026 in Barellan, NSWSomething for Everyone: Ten sports are on offer, including tennis on the Goolagong courts, triathlon, 3x3 basketball, and the crowd-favourite cattle team sorting.Low Cost, High Impact: Entry is just $25 plus sport levies, with all proceeds—over $200k to date—going back into Barellan community projects.For the 276 residents of Barellan, the end of February marks the biggest weekend of the year. For the over-35 athlete, it marks the perfect excuse to find those old tennis shoes and see if the "white line fever" still burns as bright as ever.The 2026 Barellan Masters Games are officially set to run from February 27 to March 1, bringing together athletes from across the Riverina for two days of competition that balances fierce rivalry with country hospitality.Now in its 13th year, the event is a significant fundraiser for the small wheat town, having poured more than $200,000 back into local infrastructure and school programs.Competitors in the tennis events will have the honour of playing on the recently resurfaced courts named after local legend Evonne Goolagong Cawley. The town’s connection to sporting royalty doesn't end there; the triathlon begins at the pool where Olympic icon Dawn Fraser once taught lessons.Ian Goolagong, Evonne’s brother and a Wimbledon veteran himself, is a regular participant, proving that while the atmosphere is social, the pedigree is high.The 2026 Games feature a diverse lineup of ten sports:Saturday - The Barellan Run, Tennis (Singles/Doubles), Women's three on three Basketball, Mixed Touch Football, Cattle Team Sorting, and the new Mixed Tee-ball. The night concludes with Lawn Bowls under lights.Sunday - Triathlon, six-a-side Cricket, Netball, and Tennis Mixed Doubles.Golf will be held separately on Sunday, February 11.Organiser Carl Chirgwin emphasizes that the Games cater to all skill levels. "The social aspect is as important as the sport, but once the white line fever hits, everyone wants to get a medal," he said.Stories of resilience are common here. Griffith’s Lachlan Date, the 2024 "Master Blaster," is returning to defend his crown after recovering from a broken leg. Meanwhile, 68-year-old Cheryl Rawle remains a force to be reckoned with on the tennis court, proving that strategy often beats speed. "I'm a bit slower but I can still play with people's heads," she laughed.Registration is straightforward - a $25 flat fee covers your participation, with small additional levies per sport to cover insurance and officials.For Hay residents planning the trip, individual entries are welcome, if you don’t have a full team for netball or touch football, the organisers will find a squad for you.Registration is available online at www.barellanmastersgames.com or via email. For those who prefer to decide on the day, cash and card registrations are accepted at the Barellan Sports Ground from 7:30 am on the Saturday of the event.

2025 was the year Jack Ward proved he’s the real deal.In ShortDual-Discipline Dominance: Jack Ward secured both the Elite Men’s XCC National Title and the UCI Oceania Continental Series win on dirt, alongside the inaugural ProVelo Super League GC Title on the road.Going Global: Following a stellar 2025, Ward has signed a multi-year deal with Lidl-Trek Future Racing, moving his base to Europe for the 2026 season.2026 Season Opener: Fans can catch the 20-year-old phenom in action at the Giro di Sardegna in February and the iconic Paris-Roubaix Espoirs in April.If there were any doubts that 20-year-old Jack Ward is the future of Australian cycling, the 2025 season just silenced them. From the lung-busting climbs of Mt Buller to the tactical sprints of the road circuit, the Yarra Ranges-based athlete hasn't just been participating - he’s been dominating.As the son of Stuart and Janelle (nee McKeon) and Bob and Gay McKeon of 'Kitcho' Oxley, Jack has a solid band of supporters cheering him on.He began racing at age six and has very successfully transitioned from a childhood focus on mountain biking (MTB) to becoming a dual-discipline threat on both the dirt and the road.Ward’s 2025 campaign was defined by a relentless ability to shift gears between disciplines. In March, he arrived at the GWM Mountain Bike National Championships with a target on his back and lived up to the hype.In a thrilling battle at Mt Buller, Ward showcased his trademark explosive finish to claim his first Elite Men’s XCC (Short Track) National Title, out-sprinting veteran Scott Bowden. He followed that up with a gruelling silver medal in the Elite XCO (Cross-Country Olympic) race, finishing just over a minute behind Sam Fox in a brutal seven-lap test.Earlier in the month, Ward proved his consistency by securing a massive victory in the final round of the UCI Oceania Continental Series at Mt Stromlo, where he went toe-to-toe with New Zealand powerhouse Anton Cooper and came out on top.While his MTB pedigree was already established, 2025 was the year Ward truly cracked the code on the road. Racing for Team Brennan p/b TP32, Ward claimed the inaugural ProVelo Super League (PSL) GC Title.The victory was sealed in dramatic fashion during the league's finale in Brisbane. Entering the final stage with a narrow 43-point lead, Ward powered up the Campbells Pocket climb to take a stage win that guaranteed him both the U23 and Overall League titles. This performance didn't just earn him a trophy; it earned him a ticket to the big leagues.The Road Ahead: Lidl-Trek and the World StageSo, where is the Jack heading next? The answer is Europe.Following his breakout PSL victory, Ward signed a multi-year contract with Lidl-Trek Future Racing, the high-performance development squad for the UCI WorldTour giant. This move is a serious shift toward a professional road career, though Ward has famously said, "I don't think I'd enjoy doing one thing all the time."Where to watch him in 2026:Europe: Ward will be spending the bulk of his 2026 season in European U23 racing. Keep an eye out for him at the Giro di Sardegna (late February) and the prestigious Paris-Roubaix Espoirs in April.National Duty: After a strong showing at the U23 National Road Race (4th) and Time Trial (8th) in January, Ward is poised to be a key figure for Australia in international representative events throughout the year.Watch Jack's interview HERE

Coach Zac O’Neill - The New Era of Hay MagpiesIn ShortNew Leadership: Local stalwart Zac O’Neill takes over as First Grade coach following last year’s Grand Final run, replacing Chris Stewart.Roster Reality: The club faces recruitment challenges after the loss of stars Ben Arandt and Will Barnes, shifting focus toward old school fitness and local grit.Secret Weapon: Rumours of a Fijian prospect from the local touch footy scene and potential PNG recruits offer hope for a refreshed backline.The Hay Magpies first grade team will be led by a new mentor in their quest to go one better than last year’s Grand Final appearance after the appointment of Zac O’Neill as coach for the 2026 season.After leading the Reserve Grade side to their own big dance last season, O’Neill takes the reins of a Magpies team determined to break the club’s 31-year first grade premiership drought and win a maiden Group 20 title.In an exclusive interview with The Riverine Grazier, O’Neill said that following last season’s success, the departures of stars Ben Arandt and Will Barnes have left a hole that so far the club has struggled to fill. “As everyone here knows, we’ve lost a few players and we haven’t recruited well at all,” he said.“We’ve lost Harley Hey too, he’s retired.“[It’s] just where we live, a lot of people are interested, but as soon as you tell them where we’re at, we just can’t get them here.“We’re going to have to go back to the drawing board and put in a good pre-season.“I’ve been brought up to train hard and keep things pretty simple, so we’ll put in a good pre-season, I’ll get them fit as a fiddle, and we’ll let the fitness do the work hopefully.”However despite the setbacks on the recruitment front, O’Neill did deliver some good news surrounding some of the club’s locally-based stars, with the majority committing, and others hopeful they will be able to pull on the black and white in season 2026.“Kynan [Headon]’s on board, the Crighton boys, they’ll be there, but Hugh may go travelling, so I don’t know whether I’ve got him for the full season or not yet,” he said.“I’ve spoken to Poey [Brad Pocock], I’m hoping he might be able to play, he’s got a little bit going on with work.”O’Neill was also quick to silence the rumours surrounding a potential move to arch-rivals Darlington-Point Coleambally for star centre Rex Rokosusu.“I’m pretty sure Rexy and the boys will be here again next year.”“I’ve spoken to them fellas, and a couple of them, once I told them I was going to have a go at the gig, they were pretty happy to stay on board.”Due to the town’s isolation, the Hay club has had some well-publicised struggles with attracting new recruits in recent years, most notably last season, where the club failed to find a halfback despite advertising the role heavily.In hindsight, this proved to be a blessing, with Ben Taylor playing arguably his best year of football, starting every game and steering the team to an 8-1-7 record and a Grand Final.However, O’Neill said that rumour has started to circulate around town that the Magpies’ luck may have changed, with a potential new halves prospect to complement Taylor and Toby Whitehead unearthed through local touch football.“There is a young Fijian kid in town who’s played a bit of SG Ball I think, I haven’t seen anything of him, but I’ve heard he’s been playing a bit of touch in town and he’s pretty nippy,” he said. “He’s a running five-eighth [or] centre, [so] he’ll slot into five-eighth or centre, depending how we go elsewhere.In addition to this mysterious young talent, the club also has a few more irons in the fire as the season creeps closer.“Other than that, we’ve got a couple of Papua New Guineans we are speaking to, they were working on visas, and if they show up, their football on video looks pretty handy too.”In an outstanding year for Hay sport, the Magpies were at the forefront, with three Grand Final appearances across three grades culminating in the club’s women’s team joining the Hay Lions in bringing trophies back to the plains.Central to the success at a first grade level last season was rookie coach Chris Stewart, who led the team through a difficult and at times dramatic season to a positive regular season record, a playoff position, and a subsequent run through the finals.However, Stewart made the call to step aside over the off-season, paving the way for club stalwart and fellow Grand Finalist coach O’Neill to take the reins.Now, as he prepares for the start of the season, O’Neill said that the experience players gained last year will be a big advantage when crunch time arrives in important games this year,“The boys would have got a lot out of that, the whole club got a lot out of that last year,” he said.“The girls have been so well for years, and then the two senior men’s sides both made Grand Finals in a small bush town, [which] is a pretty big thing.“A lot of people said that the culture at Hay there for a while, they didn’t know how to win, and I think they know how to win now, and like Benny Arandt said most of the year, you don’t have to start winning until mid-August, as long as we put a few on the board, that’s when you’ve got to start playing your better football, and that’s what they did.“It might have been a bit before mid-August, but you know what I mean, you don’t have to win them all early, you’ve just got to stay there and be competitive.”As for whether the success of last year will put a bigger target on the Magpies’ backs this season, O’Neill is under no illusions about what to expect around the Group this year, but he remains confident of a finals finish should things go to plan.“You always know what you’ll get when you go to Lake Cargelligo in both grades,” he said.“I’ve got high hopes for the top five, especially if they can knuckle down to a bit of old school fitness.”The Magpies will open their Group 20 campaign against Tullibigeal-Lakes United at Group 20’s season opener Magic Round in Leeton on April 12.

GWS GIANTS Academy Talent Search Heads to BalranaldIn ShortProfessional Pathway: Local youth (born 2008–2014) can showcase their skills directly to GWS GIANTS Academy scouts.Save the Date: The high-energy session takes place Sunday, February 1, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm at Greenham Park, Balranald.Registration Required: Participation is free but requires registration via the official QR code or by contacting Wayne McCraw.Greater Western Sydney (GSW) GIANTS Academy will visit Balranald, as part of their pathway program - the Next Gen Talent Search. Local aspiring footballers across the region will have a rare opportunity to showcase their skills under the watchful eyes of academy scouts.This talent search is designed to give young athletes a first-hand taste of the professional academy pathway. Whether you’re a seasoned junior player or a raw athlete looking to swap codes, this is the prime entry point for the next generation of AFL and AFLW stars from regional NSW.Are You the Next Big Thing?The GIANTS are specifically looking for young talent who meet the following criteria:Location: Participants must reside in NSW.Age Group: Open to both boys and girls born between 2008 and 2014.Ambition: Aspiring footballers keen to test their mettle against professional standards.Event DetailsThe search will take place in a high-energy, two-hour session focused on skill assessment and athletic potential.When: Sunday, February 1.Time: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm.Where: Greenham Park, Balranald.How to Get InvolvedWhile the event is a community-focused talent search, registrations are required to participate. Prospective players can secure their spot by scanning the QR code on the official event flyer (below).For those needing more details or parents with specific questions regarding the academy pathway, the academy has designated Wayne McCraw as the local point of contact. He can be reached at 0402 125 067.

Hawks Fly High: Yanco-Wamoon Retains Rep Stars as 2026 Premiership Tilt BeginsIn ShortCore Retained: The Hawks have re-signed representative stars Ulai Oti-Lahood and Jim Ratulolo, alongside six other key first-graders to maintain their 2025 finals momentum.New Leadership: Experienced mentor Kye Longford joins as a non-playing coach, allowing Ratulolo to focus solely on his on-field performance.Grand Ambitions: Following their 1996 premiership reunion year, the club is targeting a top-three finish and a deep run toward the 2026 title.After embarking on a shock run to the finals last season following a year out of the first grade competition, the Yanco-Wamoon Hawks have moved to retain several key players for the 2026 season. The club has re-signed Group 20 representative stars Ulai Oti-Lahood and Jim Ratulolo, as well as established first graders Billy Ingram, Jacob Good, Glen Borg, Jye Sainsbury, Taine Pauls and Josh Onekawa in a massive boost heading into the new season.Yanco-Wamoon President Adam Watterson said that retaining the majority of the squad is a significant step forward for the club after the team impressed with a top five finish last year.“It’s been big for the club to re-sign them all, last year was our first year back in the first grade [competition] from falling out the year before,” he said.“We’ve built it now, so we’re just trying to keep the core group together and just bring in a couple of pieces around it to fill in the voids where we need it.“It’s seamless at training now, we’re having high numbers at training each week, from 30 up in the men’s competition and then a big influx of women.”In addition to the string of re-signings, the club has also welcomed two new players to the club in Krish Henao and Vagi Toua Vai for the upcoming campaign.Watterson said he was extremely happy to have the pair on board for the upcoming season, detailing the different skillsets they will bring to the team.“Krish’s grandfather was one of the first PNG centres to represent the country,” he said.“He’s shown what his grandfather would have shown, pace, speed, flying around the oval and stuff like that.“Vai, he’s going well, more of a lock, second row type player so we’ll go from there.“Hopefully they turn out to be some good first graders.”Another change at the Hawks in 2026 has been the appointment of a non-playing coach in experienced former Narrandera premiership mentor Kye Longford.Watterson said that the decision was made both to bring in an extra, experienced perspective, as well as take pressure off Ratulolo, who balanced playing and coaching in steering the team to the finals last year.“It will be massive [having] Kye as a non-playing coach, just being off the field all the time, doing things behind the scenes like he does, [he’s an] unbelievable professional,” he said.“Running benches and things like that [for] Jim was a bit difficult last year with playing and coaching, but that’s just one of those things you do when you’re a captain-coach. “We just thought about going down the [path of a non-playing] coach instead of a playing coach this year, so Jim can just play his natural game and not be worrying about everything else and just do what Jim does.”After surprising nearly everyone outside the club by making the finals last year in just their first season back in the first grade competition, and with most of that squad retained, the Hawks are shaping as a serious contender this season.In terms of a goal for the upcoming season, Watterson said that earning a double-chance in the finals is the target.“We’re going to try for a top three finish by the end of the year, and everyone’s ambition is to win the premiership,” he said.“It’s a reunion year [fpr] our last of the five-peat Grand Finals in the 90s, the ‘96 side, so we’re hoping to go all the way, but just the top three at the moment [is the goal].“First year back it was a pretty big achievement too for the club to [make] the finals from where it was.“Knocking off the Waratahs too in the last round to make the finals was a big win for the club.”Yanco-Wamoon’s season will kick off with its annual nines tournament at the Leeton No.1 Oval on March 28, with up to $15,000 in prize money on offer.

Roo Awakening: Balranald Bolsters Roster with Triple-Threat South Australian SigningIn Short• Elite Trio Joins the Roos: Balranald has secured South Australian standouts Ari Rigney (Central District), Mason Pitt (Ingle Farm), and Terrel Rigney (North Adelaide/Port Adelaide) for the 2026 season.• CMFNL Expansion: The signings come as the Central Murray Football Netball League expands to a 16-team competition with a new Top 8 finals format.• Proven Pedigree: The new recruits bring a combined resume of SANFL experience, Association Medals, and multiple Best & Fairest awards to Greenham Park.The Greenham Park faithful have every reason to stand tall this pre-season. \As the Central Murray Football Netball League (CMFNL) prepares for a massive 2026 expansion to 16 teams, the Balranald Roos have sent a clear message to the competition: they have their sights set on a solid seasonThe club has officially secured a triple-coup of South Australian talent, headlined by the hard-nosed Ari Rigney, the prolific Mason Pitt, and the electric Terrel Rigney. The trio arrives with a combined resume that reads like a coaching staff’s wish list, bringing SANFL experience and a cabinet full of individual accolades to the Roos.The Enforcer: Ari RigneyIn a league known for its physicality, Ari Rigney is the ultimate "player’s player." With over 50 senior games at the Central District Football Club in the SANFL, Ari brings a professional edge to the Roos' engine room.Renowned for his relentless pressure and "second efforts," Rigney is the type of midfielder who thrives when the ball is at its hottest. His time with the Kapunda Bombers saw him dominate the Barossa Light and Gawler Football League, claiming the A Grade Best and Fairest and an Association Team of the Year nod. For Balranald, he provides the defensive steel and contested-ball hunger required to break games wide open.The Finisher: Mason PittIf Ari Rigney provides the grit, Mason Pitt provides the polish. A versatile mid-forward, Pitt makes the move to Balranald following a career-best season at Ingle Farm. He arrives as the reigning Division 6 Association Medalist and club Best and Fairest winner.With five junior Best and Fairest awards at Para Hills and senior experience at Golden Grove, Pitt’s pedigree is undeniable. He is expected to be a nightmare for opposition defenders, combining a high work rate with a clinical ability to hit the scoreboard.The Speedster: Terrel RigneyRounding out the major announcements is the "silky" Terrel Rigney. A genuine line-breaker, Terrel brings elite pace and a "sneaky" goal-kicking knack that will give the Roos an extra dimension on the transition.Terrel’s journey has seen him touch nearly every high-level program in the region, from North Adelaide and the Port Adelaide SANFL program to a stint in the Northern Territory Football Leauge with Southern Districts. His ability to burn opponents off the mark and find space in a crowded forward line makes him one of the most exciting recruits in the CMFNL this year.The timing of these signings couldn't be better. With the CMFNL adopting a Top 8 Finals series for 2026 and 2027, the stakes have never been higher. The Roos are clearly positioning themselves to be a powerhouse in this revamped 16-team landscape.By raiding the South Australian ranks, Balranald has added a blend of SANFL experience and local league dominance.

Magic Round Kick-off & The Lizards' Return: 2026 Group 20 Draw RevealedIn Short• Historic Season Opener: The season kicks off with an inaugural Magic Round at Leeton No.1 Oval on April 11–12, featuring all 10 teams in one location.• The Lizards Are Back: After a 22-year hiatus, the Narrandera Lizards return to Group 20 senior football, hosting a marquee Anzac Day fixture in Round 4.• Grand Final Rematch: Mark your calendars for May 24 (Round 7), when the Darlington Point-Coleambally Roosters face the Hay Magpies in a heavyweight rematch.A blockbuster opening round, fan-friendly derby matches and an Anzac Day game are among the highlights from the 2026 Group 20 Rugby League draw obtained by The Riverine Grazier this week.Magic Round Kicks Off the SeasonAs revealed by Battlers For Bush Footy and Back Country Bulletin on Monday, the league will kick off its first 10-team competition this century with a Magic Round set to be staged at the Leeton No.1 Oval on the weekend of April 11 and 12.In a historic first for the region, the season will launch with an inaugural Magic Round staged at Leeton No.1 Oval on the weekend of April 11–12. The opening weekend is set to be headlined by a clash between the Griffith Black & Whites and last year’s standout performers, the Yanco-Wamoon Hawks.The Return of the LizardsPerhaps the most significant milestone of the 2026 season is the return of Narrandera to Group 20 senior football after a 22-year absence. The Lizards will make their long-awaited comeback in a reserve grade showdown against home-side Leeton during the opening round.The club is also set to host the competition's only scheduled Anzac Day fixture in Round 4 at the Narrandera Sportsground. This special event will feature a pre-game ceremony to honour local servicemen and women, organized in partnership with their new major sponsor, the Narrandera Ex-Servicemen’s Club.Key Rivalries and RematchesThe 2026 schedule has been designed with fans in mind, featuring several high-stakes matchups:• Grand Final Rematch: The heavyweight clash between the Darlington Point-Coleambally Roosters and the Hay Magpies is set for Round 7 on May 24.• Derby Saturdays: The Leeton Shire derbies between Yanco-Wamoon and Leeton have been strategically placed on Saturdays in Rounds 5 and 14 to maximize attendance.• Griffith Derbies: Arch-rivals the Waratahs and Black & Whites will face off in Rounds 7 and 17, aligning with the Grand Final rematch weekends.The home-and-away season will culminate in late August, followed by a traditional four-week finals series. The quest for the premiership will conclude with the Grand Final scheduled for Saturday, September 20, in Griffith.For the full detailed 2026 draw, visit The Riverine Grazier or Battlers For Bush Footy.

Magic Round Extravaganza: Group 20 Unveils Blockbuster Season Opener in LeetonIn Short• Leeton to Host Magic Round: The 2026 season kicks off April 11–12 with every Round 1 game across six grades played at Leeton No. 1 Oval.• Narrandera’s Historic Return: After a 22-year hiatus from senior men's Group football, the Narrandera Lizards return to the reserve grade competition.• High-Stakes Clashes: Key matchups include a 2025 finals rematch between Griffith Black & Whites and Yanco-Wamoon, plus defending premiers DPC Roosters facing Yenda.The new Group 20 season is set to kick off with a blockbuster opening weekend after details and fixtures from a proposed Magic Round to open the season emerged last week.Every game of round one, which is set down for the weekend of April 11 and 12, is set to take place in the one location as the league works towards a huge festival of footy at Leeton to begin the year across all six grades.Headlining the opening round of the competition is a showdown between the off-season’s big movers in Griffith Black and Whites and last year’s surprise finalists Yanco-Wamoon Hawks.The Hawks’ final round upset win over Waratahs saw them beat Black and Whites for the final top five position, and with the nucleus of the Yanco team ready to go again under new coach Kye Longford in 2026, the maroon and whites are looking like a genuine premiership threat.However, the Black and Whites have been active in the player market over the summer, securing the services of stars Isaiah Buerckner-Little and Isaiah Nauer from Yenda and Waratahs respectively, and will be looking to start strongly from the get-go with their new combinations.After making last year’s Grand Final, the Hay Magpies’ quest to return to the big dance will begin with a showdown against evergreen dynamo Jaden Kelly and the TLU Sharks.Despite the losses of Ben Arandt and Will Barnes, the Magpies have retained the majority of their squad, and will be looking to impress in their first competitive fixture under recently announced head coach Zac O’Neill.The Sharkies have also had a quiet off-season on the recruiting side of things, with the club still yet to publicly confirm its coach, though most of its key players are committed to the upcoming campaign.Defending premiers Darlington Point-Coleambally will open their season against Yenda, who will be looking for redemption in 2026 after narrowly missing out on finals football last season.Both teams have lost a key player over the off season, in Billy Gilbert for the Roosters and Salesi Mahe for the Blueheelers, and will be looking to stamp their authority and claim two competition points first up.Rounding off the strong line-up of fixtures is a must-see clash between a rejuvenated West Wyalong side and last year’s preliminary finalists Griffith Waratahs.After collecting a rare wooden spoon last year, the Mallee Men have added several key pieces to their squad for the upcoming campaign, with new coach Luke Clarke being joined by fellow former Parkes player and PNG domestic competition star Joash Toringi as well as Forbes powerhouse forward David White.However, following two late finals exits the last two years, the Waratahs will be hungrier than ever in 2026, and with the addition of Auckland pair Sima Tau and Io Lotoa’atu, they will be ready to meet the Mallee Men’s challenge come round one.Meanwhile, in the other big story of the opening weekend, Narrandera’s return to the reserve grade competition will begin with a clash against the home side in Leeton, a fixture which is sure to draw plenty of attention.The Narrandera club is looking strong ahead of its return, with a new $30,000 sponsorship from the local Ex-Servicemen’s club helping to improve the club’s financial situation as it prepares for the jump back to Group football.The match will be the Lizards’ first senior men’s game in the competition since 2004, ending a 22-year wait for the Group 20 foundation club.Details around the Magic Round event are set to be confirmed over the coming weeks.Group 20 Round 1 FixturesApril 11/12 - Leeton No.1 OvalGriffith Black & Whites v YancoHay Magpies v TLU SharksWest Wyalong v WaratahsYenda v DPC RoostersNarrandera v Leeton (reserves)

Local league enthusiasts, in partnership with NSW NRL, have issued a rallying cry to players across Broken Hill, Menindee, and Wilcannia to lace up their boots and resurrect the regional competition.Following a series of high-level meetings between NSW NRL officials and local representatives, a clear roadmap has been established to bring rugby league back to the far west region. The goal is simple but urgent: four teams are needed to kick-start a formal competition.A Golden OpportunityBetween 2016 and 2018, the local league scene was thriving with a solid seven-team roster. Since then, a void has been left on the winter sports calendar - one that organisers are now desperate to fill.To lower the barrier for entry, NSW NRL has put a massive all-in offer on the table to ensure the competition’s success:• Zero Registration Costs: Every player’s registration fee will be fully covered.• Full Kit Provided: The NRL will supply all jerseys, shorts, and socks for the teams.• Neutral Officiating: Referees and officials will be flown or driven in from out of town to ensure professional standards every weekend.• Free Transport: A dedicated bus will be provided for players and coaching staff to travel to and from away games.Scheduling and ExpansionIn a move designed to unite the sporting community rather than divide it, the new league will be played on the opposite day to local AFL matches. This allows multi-sport athletes to participate in both codes and ensures maximum crowds for both sports.Furthermore, there are ambitious plans to eventually merge the Far West competition with the Mildura Rugby League, creating a powerhouse cross-border tournament that promises a higher level of play and greater regional prestige."All We Need is Players"The infrastructure is ready, the funding is secured, and the logistics are handled. Now, the future of the sport rests in the hands of the community."We know the hunger for league is still there," said one of the local organisers. "We’ve seen the talent in Menindee, the grit in Wilcannia, and the passion here in the Hill. We have the gear, the refs, and the rides - now we just need the people."Whether you are a veteran of the 2018 season or a newcomer looking to represent your town, the message is clear: get your teams sorted.