Macarthur Rugby League: Battling club sensationally booted from 2024 after teams vote them out

Less than 12 months ago the South West Goannas were on track to grow rugby league in the Macarthur region. Now their expansion plans are on hold after being voted out of the 2024 season.

After an arduous season on and off the field, the South West Goannas have been axed from the 2024 Macarthur Rugby League competition.

This time last year, with the majority backing of the other 10 top-grade clubs, the Goannas were reinstated to the competition’s top-tier.

Now, after a meeting on Thursday night between the clubs and the Macarthur Advisory Committee, club president Mark Baird’s vision of growth between Oran Park and Leppington lies in tatters.

From the moment key 2023 signing Tony ‘T-Rex’ Williams departed without lacing on a boot, the club lurched from one problem to another.

Winless on the park, the Goannas faced roadblocks at their temporary Onslow Park home-base and were left hamstrung by delays surrounding the development of the club’s proposed hub at Catherine Field.

Despite the setbacks Baird’s commitment never wavered, and in early November he announced the signing of former Kiwi international Greg Eastwood for the 2024 season.

South West Goannas battled hard in 2023. Pic by Julian Andrews.

A long time supporter of Group 6 and Country RL, Baird couldn’t hide his frustration.

“This is about NSWRL domination of country and metropolitan clubs to the detriment of junior development,” Baird said.

“At Thursday’s meeting we were given five minutes to answer four questions. We did that, and then were voted out.

“The Goannas face challenges, but at the end of the day we just want to promote and grow the game. We have the drive and energy to get the job done, but this decision shows that volunteers aren't appreciated.”

Contacted for comment, an NSWRL spokesperson explained the decision and offered hope for the future.

“The Macarthur Advisory Committee invited all teams who participated in the Wests Group Macarthur Premiership in 2023 to nominate for the 2024 competition,” said the spokesperson.

“As part of the process, the South West Goannas were asked to submit a business plan and evidence of their suitability.

“The Macarthur Advisory Committee invited the Goannas to present their submission to other clubs last night (Thursday) for a final vote on their entry, but the Goannas bid was unsuccessful.

“The NSWRL continues to work with the Goannas to place them in a suitable competition for 2024 and to assist them for reapplying for the Wests Group Macarthur Premiership in the future.”