Newcastle Hunter Rugby League (NHRL) has locked in the key dates and competition structure for the 2026 season.
After clubs were officially notified this week, preparations are now underway for another year of growth across one of the region’s largest sporting associations.
Defending premiers Waratah Mayfield will be looking to make it three straight premierships in the top grade, with the promise of some fresh sides entering the fray.
Both Lakes United and Maitland are poised to exit the competition to join the Newcastle Rugby League (NEWRL) open grade format.
There’s no word yet if Dora Creek will make a return either, following its expulsion from the 2025 final series.
The Hamilton Ducks are looking to revive their club and have the wheels in motion for a return in the lower divisions at present.
Kick-off is scheduled for the weekend of 10 April, launching a 14-round regular season.
The league has again shown great foresight with the inclusion of three designated wash-out rounds into the calendar after unusually heavy weather caused widespread disruption in 2024 and 2025.
As in previous years, no matches will be played across the Anzac Day or June long weekends.
The season will culminate in a full final series before grand final day on 12 September, which officials expect to be a major showpiece event in 2026.
NHRL chairman Kevin King said early indicators pointed to one of the strongest seasons yet.
“We’re looking forward to another big year,” he stated.
“Even though we are well before the first ball is kicked, we’re already seeing growth across the association.
“Last season we fielded 66 teams… and we expect even more to join us in 2026.”
King reiterated NHRL remained the premier community rugby league competition in the Hunter and the largest in the Southern Hemisphere.
“We can’t wait to see which teams rise to the challenge and fight for their place on grand final day,” he said.
The league also confirmed continued expansion interest, with several clubs seeking entry across both men’s grades, as well as the women’s, with organisations such as Wallsend Maryland Tigers looking to take its first tentative steps into battle.
The ladies’ tag competition is described as a particular growth area, with strong momentum and increasing demand for the non-contact option with both Central Newcastle and Waratah Mayfield expected to maintain their strong presence in the game.
Grading is likely to take place in quarter one of season 2026.
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