RUGBY LEAGUE
IN MACKAY
Rugby league has a long and rich history in Mackay, Queensland, Australia – and is still well-supported by the local community, with fans turning out in large numbers to cheer on their favourite teams and players. Overall, the history of rugby league in Mackay is a testament to the enduring popularity and importance of this great sport in regional Australia.
Early
1900s
Rugby league was first introduced to the Mackay region – and quickly gained popularity among the local community.
Early
1911
The first rugby league club was established in Mackay, known as the Mackay Rugby League Football Club, formed by a group of local enthusiasts. They wanted to provide a platform for the community to participate in the sport. Over the years, the Club grew in size and became an integral part of the local sporting landscape.
1920s
-
1930s
Rugby league continued to flourish in Mackay, and the local competition saw teams from across the region compete against one another in fierce battles for supremacy. Some of the most successful clubs during this time included the Souths Rugby League Football Club, the Norths Rugby League Football Club, and the Brothers Rugby League Football Club.
1940s-1950s
Rugby league in Mackay faced many challenges during this time, including the impact of World War II and a decline in player numbers. However, the sport managed to survive and even thrive in the following decades.
1960s
-1970s
The Mackay rugby league scene experienced a resurgence and the establishment of new clubs, such as Magpies and Sarina Crocodiles, brought fresh talent and enthusiasm to the sport. The local competition became increasingly competitive, with fierce rivalries developing between the various Clubs.
1980s-1990s
Rugby league in Mackay continued to grow in popularity, and the region produced a number of talented players who went on to achieve success at the state and national level. Some of the most notable players include Ray Higgs, Martin Bella, Kevin Campion, Dale Shearer and Wendell Sailor.
2019
The amalgamation of the junior and senior leagues was designed to create better pathways from one to the other, and assist with the future development and longevity of the sport. The Mackay football community embraced the new structure, which also allowed the Clubs to focus on their own development and volunteers.
Today
Rugby league remains a popular and integral part of the Mackay community. The local competition continues to thrive, with a number of strong and competitive clubs vying for supremacy. The jurisdiction of the league has extended out to include Moranbah and Proserpine, and the junior and seniors are together under the one banner of Rugby League Mackay & District Limited (RLMD).
