A women’s tackle competition in some shape or form as well as two new Board members will be part of the Group 4 Rugby League 2025 season.
They were the major outcomes of Group 4’s Annual General Meeting where Lad Jones was returned as chairman. North Tamworth’s James Cooper and Boggabri’s Bailey Lennox were the new additions to the board, joining Jones, Narrabri’s John Rumsby, Tamworth’s Ron Binge, Narrabri’s Mark Lyon and Werris Creek’s Lisa Dellar.
Secretary Donna Follington and treasurer Matt Old complete the new committee.
Lisa Dellar and Cody Tickle, the NSW Northern Region League and Club Support Co-Ordinator, have also formed a sub-committee to develop the new women’s competition.
“There’s a lot of interest in that after the two gala days (at Scully Park and Boggabri),” Chair Lad Jones said.
Having multiple New England women in the NRLW, including grand final star Rhiannan Byers and Sharks team mate Jada Taylor, might have something to do with the interest level too.
“‘They are looking at the best way to introduce it. We won’t rush into it, don’t want a failure. Whether it be more gala days or a shortened season we don’t know. They will discuss it and work it out. They have some different ideas to work on.”
He said the fact the Group 4 Junior League is starting Under 15 and 17 girls tackle comps in 2025 is a great boost for a pathway into senior women’s tackle as well.
Cody Tickle said the sub-committee will meet next week to “brainstorm all the ideas”.
“We will try to find the most suitable way to move forward,” he said.
“We will have a good idea of the positives and challenges are and work on a new competition.”
Jones said all nine clubs – Moree, Kootingal, North Tamworth, Boggabri, Dungowan, Werris Creek, Narrabri and Wee Waa – had nominated three or four teams for the 2025 season. First grade, Reserve Grade, Under 18’s and Ladies League Tag.
Most have four nominated four teams, just three – Boggabri, Moree and Narrabri – don’t have Under 18’s but are hopeful of fielding juniors.
“It should make for a good competition,” Jones said.
“We are also having the Footie Feast again. Last year it was at Gunnedah. This year it will be at Scully Park on the opening round of the comp on April 4. However, it will be just for lower grades.
“First grade will played later on, on a date to be decided.
“We are also having a Northern Region Tri-Series again. Group 19 and 21 will play Group 4 at Scully Park in June in men, women and Under 18.”
Top image: Gunnedah in the action at the Women’s rugby league gala day earlier this year. (Gunnedah Rugby League Club Facebook Page)
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