Brian Finlay can’t wipe the smile off his face.
After Mother Nature tried her best to derail the Newcastle Hunter Rugby League (NHRL) season, the committee will stage its eagerly-awaited grand finals at the Lakeside Sporting Complex this weekend.
That’s 10 matches scheduled to be played across two fields on Saturday 13 September.
The program features two women’s tackle deciders, three ladies league tag showdowns and five men’s divisions, making it one of the biggest and most historic days in the competition’s history.
Hence Finlay’s wide grin as he prepares to welcome more than 12,000 spectators to the Raymond Terrace grounds.
“I think people forget how massive Newcastle Hunter Rugby League is,” the chairman said.
“When we kicked off 2025 in April, we boasted 40 clubs and 66 teams.
“And, it’s continued to grow into the largest senior competition in NSW.
“Look at the diverse representation for the finale – there are sides from Waratah Mayfield (three), Mallabula (two), Stockton (two), Swansea, Raymond Terrace, Cessnock, Karuah, Newcastle Uni, Shortland, Dudley, Aberglasslyn, Central Newcastle, Nelson Bay, Clarence Town, West Wallsend and Kearsley.
“What a great cross-section of areas in the region.
“I’m sure those clubs will organise buses to ensure their communities can come together… and support their teams.
“We’re encouraging everyone to be part of this special occasion on Saturday.”
But, mid-year, things probably didn’t seem so rosy.
Cancellations, venue closures and postponements frustrated the hierarchy and organisations.
“I’ll admit, it’s been a challenging season with the wet weather,” Finlay said.
“You just couldn’t plan for it.
“However, this weekend is our chance to celebrate an incredible year.
“The resilience of our clubs and the talent we get to showcase from across the Hunter is remarkable.
“And, the best is yet to come.
“Waratah Mayfield and Central Newcastle are aiming for back-to-back titles in the men’s and ladies league tag A grade respectively.
“The Cheetahs have also achieved the rare feat of fielding three sides on grand final day, while Mallabula and Stockton should be well-pleased with their efforts, too.
“I’d like to thank Port Stephens mayor Leah Anderson and her staff for their fantastic support in making this finals series possible.
“Their commitment has been outstanding.
“We sincerely thank them for their partnership in delivering such a massive event for the region.”
Gates open from 8am.
NHRL GRAND FINAL PROGRAM
Saturday 13 September
Lakeside Sporting Complex, Raymond Terrace
Field 1
- 9.15am: Ladies League tag C grade – Swansea v Raymond Terrace
- 10.30am: Women’s Community Plate – Cessnock v Stockton
- 11.50am: Men’s C grade – Stockton v Karuah
- 1.45pm: Men’s B grade – Newcastle Uni v Shortland
- 3.30pm: Men’s A grade – Waratah Mayfield v Dudley
Field 2
- 9am: Ladies league tag B grade – Aberglasslyn v Waratah Mayfield
- 10.15am: Ladies league tag A grade – Central Newcastle v Waratah Mayfield
- 11.40am: Women’s Community Plate – Mallabula v Nelson Bay
- 1.10pm: Men’s D grade northern – Mallabula v Clarence Town
- 3pm: Men’s D grade southern – West Wallsend v Kearsley
For more sports stories:
- GALLERY… Pickers charge to fourth consecutive NEWRL crown
- ‘No regrets’ as Brown prepares to join wooden spooners
- Grand finalists locked in to contest 2025 NHRL deciders
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