Hunter Valley Group 21 Rugby League’s Referees Association has been given a major boost ahead of the 2026 season, with a Hunter Valley Operations (HVO) grant paying for a recruitment and development program for young refs.
The HVO Community Grants Program supports local organisations in the Hunter with funding for projects that build capacity, strengthen community connections and improve wellbeing.
For Hunter Valley Group 21 Rugby League the recruitment and development program the grant has enabled them to roll out has a strong focus on bringing more young people into officiating. It is also helping fund on-field uniforms, whistles, flags and radio equipment along with coaching and mentoring support to guide the new referees.
Secretary and Treasurer of the Group 21 Rugby League Referees Association Darren Whitbourne said the program is designed not just to train referees, but build confidence, culture and long term pathways.
“We’re putting particular emphasis on supporting junior and female referees, a group historically underrepresented in the sport.
“Creating opportunities for female referees is essential to meet the growing number of females now playing rugby league. There’s been a long-standing shortage and bias against females in the sport and it’s vital that this is addressed.
“There’s now a legitimate pathway for girls to progress from grassroots to the elite level, and we want to provide these opportunities here in the Hunter Valley,” said Darren.
Attracting women hasn’t been the only challenge, financial pressures on families and the long distance junior referees often need to travel on weekends is also a challenge.
There’s also the challenge of abuse from players, coaches or spectators that can deter new recruits. Darren said despite the challenges the impact of the grant has been immediate and encouraging.
“The new uniforms and equipment have made a huge difference to families by reducing the financial commitment. We’ve seen a real lift in training attendance and culture and we’re able to offer more support and opportunities for our members.
“We were able to organise an excursion to an NRL game, to help strengthen culture and connection among the members,” Darren said.
“Group 21 referees are already officiating at major events too including Women’s State of Origin, NRLW Magic Round and Newcastle Knights games. We are determined to show young people that referring can be a rewarding and respected part of the sport.”
In communities across Singleton, Muswellbrook, the Upper Hunter and Maitland, rugby league is more than a game – it’s a social anchor.
“Rugby league is the glue that holds these communities together. It’s the weekly event people look forward to and it brings players, families and spectators together in a way that’s really important for connection and wellbeing.”
| HVO’s Community Grants Program supports local organisations across the Hunter with funding for projects that build capacity, strengthen community connections and improve wellbeing. Learn more at: https://www.hvo.com.au/community/ |
