The NRL is “putting a flag” in grassroots rugby league, within the region, thanks to a new partnership with the Hunter Sports Centre (HSC).
It means Lake Macquarie will become a major home base for the sport’s development in northern NSW following the announcement of a burgeoning alliance between the two parties this week.
Under the agreement, the NRL’s focused on establishing a dedicated presence at Glendale’s newly-redeveloped Sport and Community Building for its local and state office staff; providing a professional environment for seminars, training, coaching and officiating courses, workshops and community engagement programs; as well as its administration operations.
Former Cronulla Shark, and general manager game development, Dean Bosnich admitted the HSC hub aligned directly with the organisation’s commitment to strengthen rugby league’s footprint across key regional communities.
“The Hunter is one of NSW’s most important heartlands, with participation continuing to grow strongly across individual clubs and schools,” he said.
“So, the Hunter Sports Centre offers everything we need.
“That includes indoor and outdoor training spaces to modern education rooms, as well as a central location that connects us to the entire region corridor.
“This partnership reinforces our long-term investment in the Hunter and enhances our ability to support the code at every level.”
HSC’s acting general manager Michelle Preston‑Poole said the arrangement, which came on the one year-anniversary of its $52 million upgrade, fortified the centre’s role as one of NSW’s leading multi‑sport destinations.
“We are incredibly proud to welcome the NRL into our community,” she added.
“It follows on from the HSC’s relationship with the Newcastle Jets.
“The partnership showcases the world‑class facilities we have built for the region and provides a professional, centralised headquarters for the NRL to deliver programs that develop players, referees, coaches and the broader rugby league community.”
Participation in the sport continues to grow rapidly across the Hunter, with rising numbers in junior pathways, female involvement and school-based initiatives contributing to increased demand for local development opportunities.
So, the NRL’s expanded presence in Lake Macquarie will boost this growth, providing consistency in service delivery and improved access to high-quality spaces.
Lake Macquarie City mayor Adam Shultz said the affiliation reflected the momentum generated by the city’s $52 million investment in the redevelopment of HSC.
“The growth we’re seeing is transforming Lake Mac into a true regional hub for elite and community sport,” he stated.
“Welcoming the NRL into the HSC shows the strength of the precinct and its importance for the sporting future of the Hunter.
“As someone who grew up playing rugby league in Lake Macquarie, I know how passionate our community is about the game.
“This will provide greater opportunity for local kids to follow their dreams.”
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