Welcome to the May edition of Blues News!
After a soggy start to May, the Blues are more than ready to get back on the field. With two weekends of rugby largely washed out, it’s been a frustrating run for our Seniors and Juniors. Thankfully, our Wanderers Netballers have dodged the worst of the weather and kept the blue flag flying high with some great court time.
Ladies Day – Saturday 31 May, 2025
This weekend, all focus shifts to a massive return to No.2 Sportsground for one of the most iconic days on the calendar—LADIES DAY!
This Saturday promises big footy and even bigger celebrations, as our Premier Women’s team faces off against the Nelson Bay Gropers and our Men’s teams take on arch-rivals Merewether Carlton. With everything from top-tier rugby to gift bags and bubbles, this is a day you won’t want to miss. Let’s make it a day to remember—on and off the field.
ONLINE TICKETS: $90 – LIMITED AVAILABILITY!!!
Includes guaranteed goodie bag. Get in early to save and secure the perks!
ON THE DAY TICKETS: $100 – includes goodie bags while stocks last.
Senior Rugby Update
WOMENS TEAM UPDATE
As the final autumn leaves fell, the Wanderers Women XV wrapped up a jam-packed May with equal parts grit, glory, and good times. Though we kicked things off with a washout round against Uni, we didn’t let the weekend go to waste. Instead of lacing up our boots, we pulled up chairs at our second home – the Commy – for a wholesome team dinner. Because if we’re not on the pitch, you’ll probably find us there.
The following week saw us back in action, putting in a solid performance against Cooks Hill with a 38–0 win. That high carried us into supporter mode as we cheered on the Wallaroos in their clash against the Black Ferns. Big plays, bigger hits, and even bigger inspiration.
Mid-month, six of our very own – Georgie, Claire, Maddi, Teneah, Gabby, and Holly – headed to Tamworth to represent at the Country Championships. True to Wanderers form, they were relentless, only letting in one try across the entire tournament and finishing a hard-earned 5th. Safe to say the Two Blues were well represented.
May tried to rain on our parade again with another washout round, but in classic Wanderers fashion, we flipped the script and turned it into an all-club team bonding day. This time, it wasn’t trams and pubs, but more of a full-body workout across Newcastle. Some of us clocked steps like machines, while others realised beer counted for points and focused more on schooner curls at – you guessed it – the Commy.
Despite the relentless rain and field closures, we were lucky to have the hospitality of our sponsors, Concept Gym and coaching team that held us accountable.
MENS TEAMS UPDATE
Our last round against Southern Beaches (which feels like years ago) was a fairly successful day, with P1 & P2 gaining comfortable wins over their rivals. P3 had a tough day in the office going down to an experienced side by 2 points in the final phase of the game.
Three of our men also ventured up to Tamworth representing Hunter Rugby at the Country Championships. The team managed to get some great wins over some tough opponents and managed to finish with a bronze medal in the end. Congratulations to Jack, Jeronimo and Kyle on your hard work and dedication!
Festivities were in full swing afterwards with the return of the (infamous) “Rookie Night”! Our rookies of all ages were paired up and put to the test in various challenges to determine this year’s victors. Congratulations to our Wanderers Junior Zinzan and countryboy Jason (responsibly babysat by Nik Mylo)!
Unfortunately over the past couple of weeks we have been belted by a 1 in 1,000 year dose of rain. This left No. 5 looking like Hexham Swamp. Not keen on swimming, the boys underwent a couple of gruelling strength and conditioning sessions run by Sam Coates of Coalface Gym. These workouts saw the boys bike and row for endless kilometres, and perform 100s of situps that left abs sore for days after.
1ST ANNUAL SCAVENGER HUNT
After weeks of rain, the clouds parted for a glorious Saturday upon which both Men’s, Women’s and u18s teams participated in the 1st annual “Scavenger Hunt”. Teams were tasked with taking photos in front of various landmarks and sponsors around Newcastle – such as Nobby’s Lighthouse, Merewether Baths, the Commy, Coalface and Three Monkeys Cafe. One group even managed to take a photo in front of the Sydney Harbour Bridge (although this group is currently under investigation for photoshopping this photo due to eyewitness reports stating they were actually sinking beers at the Commy).
Groups racked up a solid 10kms of running that day (except Simmo’s group which was caught in the act of using the tram). Players proceeded to enjoy a beer and barbecue before limping onto the Commy later that arvo. Ultimately this was a fantastic bonding event for the team and huge props to the coaches for planning such a fun event!
MILESTONES TO BE CELEBRATED THIS WEEKEND
The teams are itching to get back on the field this Saturday – Ladies Day – against our cross-town rivals with the hope of payback against our last meet on ANZAC day, and a celebration as two of our club’s most dedicated players hit major career markers against Nelson Bay!
Kirsty (Girkin) McGrorey will become the first woman to reach 200 games for the Wanderers—and potentially the first woman to hit this milestone at any club in the competition. Girkin has been part of the Two Blues since 2001, starting her journey at just 15 years old. Over more than two decades, she’s racked up multiple premierships, captained both Hunter and NSW Country, and led the Wanderers Women to a remarkable three consecutive titles (2022, 2023, 2024). This year, she continues to lead the way as one of our club captains, all while juggling life as a mum to Jaxon, Cooper and Rylen.
Also celebrating a major moment is Ashlee Rehbein, who will run out for her 100th game in the blue jersey. Since joining in 2015, Ash has served as vice captain, club captain and a key figure in the team’s recent premiership hat-trick. She’s also proudly represented Hunter and balances her rugby commitments with raising her son, Max.
Both Girkin and Ash are true stalwarts of the club—fierce competitors, loyal teammates, and leaders who have helped shape the WXV culture into what it is today. Congratulations to both legends on these incredible achievements.
NEW CANTEEN OPERATORS FOR HOME GAMES
We’re excited to announce that Food by Zed has taken over canteen operations for all Seniors home games. With experience delivering professional canteen services across multiple sporting clubs, they’ll bring an upgraded food and beverage offering to match the quality of the rugby on the field. Importantly, this change still generates vital income for the club—so we encourage everyone to support the canteen on game days. The U15s will also continue to lend a hand, with proceeds helping fund their 2026 Japan Tour. Grab a bite, support the Blues, and help us keep the club thriving!
Junior Rugby Update
SEASON UPDATE
The season kicked off well, but recent wet weather has disrupted most games over the past four rounds. Despite this we’ve already seen some great results, and teams are now working to reschedule and catch up on missed games. Our junior teams have shown great team spirit, continuing their training and building camaraderie. Many have made great use of indoor facilities to stay active and connected, keeping the momentum going despite the weather.
JUNIOR WILDFIRES ANNOUNCEMENTS
Junior Wildfires teams have recently been announced, including development squads for U10s, U11s, and U12s, as well as competitive teams from U12s through to U16s. Wanderers Juniors are proudly represented across all age groups.
The State Championships are set to take place over the June long weekend at various locations across NSW. In addition, the Development Squad Galas are scheduled for mid-July, along with the rescheduled U12s State Championship, postponed due to community flood recovery efforts in Forster-Tuncurry.
Congratulations to all our selected players. We wish you the best in your training and preparation for these exciting events.
JAPAN TOUR
The journey of a lifetime is within reach — and you can help make it happen! Our U15’s boys are gearing up for the journey of a lifetime with their 2026 tour of Japan. We’re calling on our amazing community to get behind them as they work hard to raise the funds needed to get there via the below initiatives.
🎟️ 100 Club Tickets
Be in the running to WIN BETWEEN $500 to $2500 IN CASH with our 100 Club Raffle! This is your chance to support a great cause and win some fantastic rewards — a win-win! Only 100 tickets will be sold at Ladies Day, Sponsors Day and other major home games with prices ranging from $10 – $50 per ticket.
Raffle – Let’s Make It Unmissable!
We’re building one amazing raffle, and we need your help to make it shine! We’re seeking prize donations – big or small! Think vouchers, hampers, gift packs, experiences, or anything fun! Know a business or individual who can donate something awesome? Let us know!
Cans for Japan – Small Acts, Big Impact
Our Cans for Japan drive is underway! We’re collecting cans and bottles for recycling — and every return adds to the total.
Drop-offs welcome see image above for details.
Community First – The Boys Are Here to Help
The boys are willing to lend a hand in the community as a way of giving back. Need help with a project, event, or odd job? Let us know — we’d love to assist in return for your support.
📣 Get Involved Today!
Every raffle ticket bought, can collected, or donation made brings the team one step closer to Japan. Plus we also have a Bunnings BBQ coming up – stay tuned for the date! Let’s rally behind them and make this tour a reality.
👉 Contant Brooke Cotterell to donate, get involved, or grab a raffle ticket.
JUNIORS DAY
Juniors Day took place on 10 May and was a fantastic celebration of rugby, with games across both fields. Our junior players enjoyed a sausage sizzle and a drink as they cheered on the senior teams, creating a great atmosphere throughout the day. It was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate our junior players and to thank our generous sponsors for their ongoing support.
ANZAC DAY WREATH LAID
A heartfelt thank you to Michael and Sam Noonan, and Edward Morton for proudly representing the Two Blues on Anzac Day by laying a wreath at the Townson Oval Memorial Dawn Service. Your gesture honoured the memory of those who have served our nation in the armed forces and reflected the deep respect and gratitude we share as a club. Thank you for upholding this important tradition on behalf of all of us at Wanderers.
VOLUNTEERS
National Volunteer Week was marked recently, and it’s a great time to acknowledge the contributions of all our volunteers. Our club couldn’t function without the dedication of families who give their time and energy week after week.
From Ground Marshalls and canteen helpers to coaches and the parents who lend a hand getting kids to training each week, your efforts make everything possible.
Thank you for being the heart of our club.
Netball Update
The netball gods were smiling on the Two Blues last weekend as all eight of our teams stormed the courts and came away with a clean sweep of wins! Well done ladies!!
With another big round ahead, we’re backing the girls to bring the heat again—then celebrate in style at Ladies Day!
Wanderers Rugby Community Update
1975 PREMIERSHIP REUNION
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Peter Cook, David McKinlay, Tom Atkins, Daryl Bailey, Steve Holmes, Carl Van Rugge, Peter Krempin, Greg “Monster” McKenzie, Ian Sheriff.
Kevin Hitchcock, Phil “Storky” Whetham, Fred Wivell, Chris Mahony, Morgan Jones (Coach), Geoff Hill, Dave Hankin, Roy Blackshaw, Phil “Bunga” Burns.
It was a weekend to remember as our 1975 Premiership legends reunited over the ANZAC Day weekend. The team formed a special honour guard for Premier 1s at the The Adams-Halter ANZAC Shield before gathering at the Commonwealth Hotel to share stories, laughs, and a few well-earned beers.
Thanks to all who came along and helped celebrate this iconic chapter in Wanderers history!
CENTENARY BOOKS – STILL AVAILABLE
Haven’t grabbed your Wanderers Centenary Book yet? This keepsake packed with Two Blues history is still available—pick up a copy at any home game for $50 or order online for $56 including postage. Don’t miss out on this special slice of club history!
Upcoming Events
2025 GOLF DAY
Friday 6 June 2025 – Newcastle Golf Club
TIMES:
- Shotgun start at 8am
- Bus departs No. 2 Sportsground at 6:40am
- Breakfast from 7am
COSTS:
- $760 per team of 4 – includes breakfast, lunch, golf & prizes
- Hole Sponsorship: $1320 – includes everything above + promo opportunities & 2 x golf carts per group
Sponsors Shout Out
Bright & Duggan Strata Professionals
A huge thank you to Bright & Duggan for their ongoing support of the Two Blues. As one of Australia’s most respected names in strata and community title management, their team delivers professional, reliable service that keeps buildings and communities running smoothly.
We’re proud to have Bright & Duggan backing the Blue and supporting our club culture. Learn more about their services below.
That’s all for now!
Let’s go for this weekend’s games!
Go the Two Blues!
