Macarthur RL season preview: Every club profiled ahead of the 2025 season
The race for Macarthur RL glory begins this Saturday as 11 teams take the field with revamped rosters. Discover all the key signings and departures for each club in our season preview.
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The Macarthur region’s top rugby league competition gets underway this weekend, with 11 clubs in the race to be crowned premiers in late September.
In an eagerly anticipated opening, Thirlmere host cross-town rivals Picton on Saturday evening in what shapes as a new era for both clubs.
Played over 18 rounds, reigning premiers the Camden Rams can expect stiff competition as they strive for a third title in just four seasons.
See how your team shapes up in 2025.
JUMP TO
Camden Rams – Campbelltown City – Campbelltown Collegians – East Campbelltown – Mittagong – Narellan – Oakdale – The Oaks – Picton – Thirlmere – South West
THIRLMERE ROOSTERS
With the likes of Corey Norman, Curtis Scott, and a host of top local talent going their separate ways, incoming coach James Towerton takes the reins of a new-look Roosters.
Since 2019, Thirlmere has ridden the crest of a golden wave, blending local talent with an abundance of ex-NRL stars to win three grand finals in six seasons.
“We’ve probably tried to shy away from signing big names this year, but we have a couple of irons in the fire, so we’ll see how it pans out,” said Towerton, who takes over from premiership winning coach Darren McLeod, and brings experience from the Canterbury pathways program.
“It will be a young side this year, plus some old heads leading the way. We’re excited and can’t wait for Round 1 at Thirlmere, which also happens to be Old Boys Day.”
Despite the long list of departures, proud skipper Kye Madden returns alongside backrower Justin Smith and premiership winning five-eighth Tim Simona. In addition, Australian Defence Force rep BJ Ruttley returns, and the versatile outside back will be joined by respected middle forward, Raui Theseus Poaru.
“We have 37 names on the books for first and reserve grade, and are in much better shape than we were a month ago,” Towerton said.
“Ideally we’d like to have 40-plus, and at the moment we are confident of hitting the target.”
Major new signings: BJ Ruttley (returns), Raui Theseus Poaru (returns)
Major departures: Ken Sio (Campbelltown Collegians), Levi Bromfield (Narellan), James Lee (Wollongong), Rielly Smith (Wollongong), Curtis Scott (De La Salle Caringbah), Corey Norman (Queensland)
Last season: 4th
Number of titles (Group 6, Macarthur): Eight - 2001, 2003, 2006, 2008, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2023
Opening month: Thirlmere
Round 1: Picton (H), Saturday, April 5
Round 2: South West (H), Sunday, April 13
Round 3: East Campbelltown (A), Sunday, April 27
Round 4: The Oaks (H), Sunday, May 4
CAMPBELLTOWN CITY
After finishing eighth on the ladder last season, Campbelltown City has high hopes of returning to the finals for the first time since 2022.
Ava Seumanufagai returns as captain-coach, and the former NRL front rower will once again pack down alongside fellow wrecking ball, Junior Moors.
“Ava and Junior will lead the way once again upfront,” said Kangaroos assistant coach, Nathan Wilson.
“They’ve had a great pre-season and the entire squad has been on board with the fitness program. We are confident of getting down field, we just need to get better at creating points.
“Unfortunately we’ve lost Bryce Wilson to Oakdale, however we remain confident of recruiting a quality half before the season gets underway.”
While the departure of Wilson isn’t ideal, the Kangaroos have managed to retain the majority of last season’s squad while adding depth with more than a handful of new recruits.
“The club is in a good space on and off field, and we are hopeful of challenging for a spot in the finals,” said Wilson
“Centre Jacob Williams has come back to the club, and we’ve signed Michael Taute – a promising fullback from Liverpool Catholic Club who can also kick goals.
“A couple of players from Minto’s premiership-winning side have also joined: Jamie Crawford, a quality middle forward, and Braydon Ferguson, who provides utility value in the backline and has also played Jersey Flegg for Canterbury.”
Of the younger brigade, former Ingleburn RSL hooker Lorima Cosgrave is expected to start the season in U18s following his SG Ball commitments with Wests Magpies. In the backs, Amazon Pua’avase is expect to push for a first grade spot after making his debut last season.
Major new signings: Jacob Williams (returns), Jamie Crawford (Minto), Braydon Ferguson (Minto), Salah Masri (East Hills), Lorima Cosgrave (Ingleburn RSL), Brendan Barlow (Appin), Michael Taute (Liverpool Catholic Club)
Major departures: Bryce Wilson (Oakdale), Lawdez Taurerewa-Yucel (Mounties SS/RMC), Chris Williamson (retired)
Last season: 8th
Number of titles (Group 6, Macarthur): 11 - 1946, 1949, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1980, 1983, 2017
Opening month: Campbelltown City
Round 1: Mittagong (H), Sunday, April 6
Round 2: Picton (A), Sunday, April 13
Round 3: South West (H), Sunday, April 27
Round 4: East Campbelltown (A), Sunday, May 4
THE OAKS TIGERS
The Oaks were a blade of grass away from pulling off a stunning grand final upset last season.
History shows Camden went on to hoist the trophy after extra-time, but the Tigers lost no admirers, and with captain-coach Mitchell Brasington back at the helm, they’re poised for another big year.
“It’s more of the same for us; we’ve managed to retain the majority of our grand final squad,” said Brasington, who will once again call the shots alongside game-breaking halfback Daniel Payne.
Joseph Ualesi was outstanding last season, and the addition of the damaging forward proved critical in the Tigers’ elevation to title contender.
“Joey’s coming back; however, our other prop, Evrett Vaurasi, still has a suspension hanging over his head. We’re hopeful he’ll return after the Easter break,” said Brasington.
“Although we’re not expecting to see much from the boys who are playing Jersey Flegg with Wests Tigers. Kohan Lewis is currently playing prop in SG Ball, but when that’s over we expect him to join Chad Daniels and Ryan Polsen in the Flegg squad.
“In the backs, Chris Taripo has signed to play but he is unlikely to be seen in the early rounds.”
With fresh upgrades, Dudley Chesham is the place to be when The Oaks kick off their campaign against fierce rivals Oakdale.
“The club is in excellent shape. The numbers are the best I’ve seen, there’s depth across all three grades and we’ve had around 80 at training,” said Brasington.
“Among the new faces, Jake Ennis and Daniel Smith are returning to the club. Jake is a handy outside back who can cover multiple positions, and Daniel used to be our regular fullback.”
“In the lower grades, plenty have joined to play with their mates and we now have an u18s Gold team. The juniors are thriving and the new grand stand is open, so there’s plenty for Tigers fans to be excited about.”
Major new signings: Jake Ennis (returns), Daniel Smith (returns)
Major Departures: Christian Nahlous (Berkeley Vale), John Finianos (Blacktown RMC)
Last season: Runner up
Number of titles (Group 6, Macarthur): Three - 1976, 1977, 1992
Opening month: The Oaks Tigers
Round 1: Oakdale (H), Sunday, April 6
Round 2: Campbelltown Collegians (A), Sunday, April 13
Round 3: Bye
Round 4: Thirlmere (A), Sunday, May 4
PICTON MAGPIES
After the horrors of 2024, returning Magpies coach Simon Woolford can already see the light at the end of the tunnel.
Ravaged by injuries, last season the proud club scored just four wins to finish ninth on the ladder.
“Coming into last year we had a lot of senior players retire and then a lengthy list of injuries meant we struggled for numbers for the majority of the season,” said Woolford.
“We lost two hookers in the opening round and we didn’t start the season with established halves.
“The club is in much better shape this season. Some players have moved on but we are happy with the squad and the commitment the boys are showing to training.”
In promising signs, former NSW Cup playmaker Daniel Roberts returns after overcoming numerous challenges last season.
“Daniel will start in the halves,” said Woolford. “He played at the end of last year while still recovering from a serious knee injury, but he is in much better shape now after a full pre-season.”
Rising pathways halfback Luke Keppie is set to return after spending part of the off-season training with the Storm’s Jersey Flegg squad in Melbourne
“Luke has had some recent health issues that resulted in stomach surgery earlier in the year. He returned home in January and is still working on regaining his weight.
“At this stage there’s no guarantee he’ll be ready for the opening round. But when he does return, the plan is to use him at fullback where we can use his speed.”
In a bid to generate extra spark around the ruck, the former hooker, who made over 250 appearances for Canberra and St George Illawarra, has cast his net beyond the Macarthur region.
“My preference is to play two hookers. Lincoln Miners is a quality No.9 from Shellharbour, and my son Charlie has joined from the Canberra competition.”
In a major loss, the Magpies will be without prop Alec Susino after the former captain decided to hang up his boots.
Veteran centre Michael Lett remains on the books and with a host of multiple-premiership winning teammates set to return, Picton won’t be short on experience and motivation.
“Tim Dengate and Anthony Provost are back from a year off,” Woolford said of the halfback and hooker who guided the club to its last finals appearance in 2022.
“At this stage they’ll play reserve grade. We’re not pushing them to play firsts, but they could be an option if needed.
“Forwards Jack Twist and Alex Peters also won comps at the club and are set to return in reserve grade. It means there’s plenty of depth, and our trial form has been encouraging.”
Major new signings: Kynan Clough (Corrimal Cougars), Joel Etherington (South West), Jaycob Oloaga (Campbelltown Collegians), Noah Mackenzie (Emu Plains), Lincoln Miners (Shellharbour Stingrays, Steelers SG Ball), Charlie Woolford (Yass Magpies), Tim Dengate, Anthony Provost, Barry Baird, Jack Twist, Alex Peters – all out of retirement
Major Departures: Henry Lealuga-Puhotau (Campbelltown Collegians), Leon Longbottom (Campbelltown Collegians), Rua Hona (Camden), Tukaha Kyriacou (Camden), Matthew Dengate (Wests Illawarra), Alec Susino (retired)
Last season: 9th
Number of titles (Group 6, Macarthur): 13 - 1935, 1966, 1981, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1999, 2005, 2009, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2018
Opening month: Picton Magpies
Round 1: Thirlmere (A), Saturday, April 5
Round 2: Campbelltown City (H), Sunday, April 13
Round 3: Narellan (A), Sunday, April 27
Round 4: Mittagong (H), Sunday, May 4
CAMDEN RAMS
After an unbeaten 2024 and three consecutive grand finals, the Camden Rams juggernaut shows no signs of slowing down.
A driving force behind the club’s golden run, captain-coach Brad Speechley is one of 13 players set to return from the squad of 18 that edged out The Oaks in last season’s decider.
With the reserve grade and under-18s trophies also in the cabinet, Camden are blessed with depth and have quickly moved to fill the voids left by several departing stars.
“Our first grade side is very similar to last season,” said Speechley, who will once again partner with Jackson Willis in the halves, behind a pack led by multiple premiership-winning props Danny Fualalo and Bailey Dickinson.
“In a major loss, goal-kicking centre Jack Miller has returned to Mounties and we’ve also had three players retire.
“We have quite a few juniors rising through the ranks, but all going well we don’t expect to see much of Harry Delaney and Ewan Xuereb who are both playing front-row for Wests Tigers in Jersey Flegg (U21s).”
Veteran playmaker Chris Browne and lightning quick fullback Lindsay Munro are two of five from the successful reserve grade combination to move on.
“We’ve lost some depth but we have nine players stepping up from the U18s,” said Speechley.
“There’s some spots up for grabs and we are keen to give the younger boys an opportunity.”
In a like-for-like replacement, the retirement of Josh Goulton has been balanced by the return of John Ryan, the 2022 premiership-winning winger, after his stint in Sydney Shield.
Other new signings include centre Rua Hona and prop Tukaha Kyriacou from Picton, while a couple of new faces are expected to challenge for spots in the top grade.
“Zach Riley is a hooker from Corrimal and Sam Lynch is a young half currently playing SG Ball for Wests,” said Speechley.
“Cam Lawrence is one to keep an eye on in first grade. He played fullback in Flegg for Canterbury and can cover multiple positions in the outside backs.”
Major new signings: Rua Hona (Picton), Tukaha Kyriacou (Picton), Cameron Lawrence (ex Canterbury pathways), Zach Riley (Corrimal Cougars), Sam Lynch (Winston Hills Tigers, Wests SG Ball), John Ryan (Ryde-Eastwood SS)
Major departures: Jack Miller (Mounties), Patrick Dumont (Mounties), Logan Matapuku (retired), Kisi Taulani (retired), Josh Goulton (retired), Lindsay Munro (train/trial South Sydney NSW Cup), Chris Browne (Figtree captain/coach), Alex Vincent (Figtree), Brendon Tapuai (Blacktown RMC)
Last season: Premiers
Number of titles (Group 6, Macarthur): 11 - 1948, 1951, 1978, 1994, 1997, 1998, 2000, 2002, 2016, 2022, 2024
Opening month: Camden Rams
Round 1: Narellan (H), Sunday, April 6
Round 2: Oakdale (A), Sunday, April 13
Round 3: Mittagong (H), Sunday, April 27
Round 4: Campbelltown Collegians (A), Sunday, May 4
MITTAGONG LIONS
Mittagong head into the 2025 premiership as an unknown quantity.
A finals regular over the previous two seasons, the Lions have lost a core of big names while they welcome a mix of familiar and unknown faces.
In a significant blow, last year’s captain-coach, Keiran Rankmore, has returned to the Wollongong competition. A tireless worker in the middle, the NSW Country representative will be joined at Shellharbour by several former Lions teammates including Country playmaker Jake Brisbane, utility Liam Henry, and prop Troy Martin.
Other notable omissions include livewire fullback James Coyne who has decided to return to the Shire, while reliable prop Jacob Mayer has made the move to Cessnock.
One of the Lions’ chief organisers, hooker Blake Barbuto, takes over as captain and will share the coaching duties alongside the experienced Russell Lewis.
“We’ve had a stack of players leave, so we are working on rebuilding before the season gets underway,” said Lewis.
“It’s Blake’s first season in charge. He’s still only 24, but we’ve surrounded him with good people which is important for his first season.
“Former Mittagong first grade coach Scott Borg is part of the group, and fitness co-ordinator Daniel Alvaro brings a wealth of knowledge from his playing days at Parramatta and St George.”
The arrival of former Narellan captain-coach Levi Dodd is a crucial addition. The former NSW Cup star is also joined by several former Jets teammates, including prop Josiah Tamasi and powerful centre Gordon Toomalatai.
Despite the exodus of frontline talent, it’s not all doom and gloom for the Lions. Former New Zealand international Bryson Goodwin returns for his fourth season. Halfback Nicholas Eccleston is back, while forwards Tyler Slade and Liam Cassidy are also expected to return.
“We’ve signed the Narellan boys and picked up five-eighth Jake Steadman from Oakdale,” said Lewis.
“We thought we’d signed front-rower Kurt Dillon from Newtown, but it fell through after he picked up a new job that included a large travel component.
“A couple of boys from Souths A-grade have joined. Kyle Wilson is a fullback and Liam Balzan comes with a reputation as a reliable half.
“Ideally we’d like a squad of 20 or so for reserve grade and another 17-20 for first grade. The numbers aren’t quite there yet, but we’ve still got a month or so to go.”
Major new signings: Josiah Tamasi (Narellan), Levi Dodd (Narellan), Jake Steadman (Oakdale), Will Saunders (Narellan), Gordon Toomalatai (Narellan), Kyle Wilson (Matraville), Liam Balzan (Matraville)
Major departures: Jake Brisbane (Shellharbour), Keiran Rankmore (Shellharbour), Liam Henry (Shellharbour), Troy Martin (Shellharbour), Dallas Collins (Gymea Gorillas), James Coyne (Gymea Gorillas), Jacob Mayer (Cessnock), Michael Meadows (retired)
Last season: 5th
Number of titles (Group 6, Macarthur): 10 - 1937, 1945, 1959, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1967, 1988, 1991, 1995
Opening month: Mittagong Lions
Round 1: Campbelltown City (A), Sunday, April 6
Round 2: Narellan (H), Sunday, April 13
Round 3: Camden (A), Sunday, April 27
Round 4: Picton (A), Sunday, May 4
OAKDALE WORKERS
Despite battling a lengthy list of injuries last year, Oakdale still finished within striking distance of the decider and with the Oaks were the only two sides to seriously challenge Camden’s unbeaten run.
But in a major blow ahead of the opening round, the Workers face the prospect of being without inspirational player-coach Kyle Fraser for the entire season.
Grounded by a training related back injury, the 34-year-old backrower remains fiercely determined to finish his career on his own terms.
“I sustained the injury while lifting weights at the gym,” said Fraser who expects to make a full recovery.
“I’ve had surgery and all going well there’s a chance I could be available to play late in the season. I’m on light duties for six weeks, but I don’t want to go out like this and I’m certainly not about to write off playing again.
“The support from the boys and their families has been unbelievable; it’s such a great club, and I can’t thank everyone enough.”
While Fraser’s intensity will be missed on field, he’ll still call the shots from the sideline and is confident the Workers have a list capable of making an even greater impact.
“We’ve retained the majority of last year’s squad and made several handy additions,” said Fraser, before highlighting the squad’s upfront grunt.
“Tristyn Ball joins from East Campbelltown. He’s a highly rated prop who has come through the pathways with Wests.
“He has slotted in perfectly since coming across. I think he's starting to figure out how good he can be. He’s a big guy, but he’s in great shape and has been really vocal at training.
“With Francis Tuigamala coming back, the side is strong through the middle. He’s got his love for the game back and is looking phenomenal, he’s even been punching out road runs.”
Forced to juggle more than a handful of halves combinations in 2024, Oakdale are set to call on several familiar faces to start their campaign.
“Josh Burke is back to the days of old,” Fraser said of the five-eighth who captain-coached Oakdale to last season’s reserve grade grand final.
“He looks in better condition than when he won the comp with City in 2017. Jacob McKinnon and Brandon Maycock are back too and are both reliable options.”
Five-eighth Jake Steadman and utility Cooper Smith are the big name departures, and while disappointed to see them leave, Fraser is excited by the club’s two other key additions.
“Bryce Wilson has come across from City and can play anywhere in the backline,” said Fraser.
“He has Flegg experience, and I think he’ll shine under the captaincy of Jason Thompson. We’ve also signed Vaiala Tamati from Ryde Eastwood who can play right centre or No.6, he came through the pathways at the Roosters.”
Burdened by lengthy stints on the sidelines last season, Oakdale expect to be even stronger with the return of fully fit forwards, Josh Carr, Luke Williams and Emmitt Carlile.
Major new signings: Tristyn Ball (East Campbelltown), Bryce Wilson (Campbelltown City), Vaiala Tamati (Ryde Eastwood – SS)
Major departures: Jake Steadman (Mittagong), Cooper Smith (Cabramatta – RMC), Jackson Blatch (Cabramatta – RMC)
Last season: 3rd
Number of titles (Group 6, Macarthur): Two - 1993, 2011
Opening month: Oakdale Workers
Round 1: The Oaks (A), Sunday, April 6
Round 2: Camden (H), Sunday, April 13
Round 3: Campbelltown Collegians (H), Sunday, April 27
Round 4: Bye
EAST CAMPBELLTOWN EAGLES
They made the grand final in 2022, but since then it’s been slim pickings for East Campbelltown. Having failed to make the finals in the previous two seasons, Eagles club president Dan Draper has overseen a busy off-season with wide sweeping changes.
With Jake Tonitto now at Narellan, club stalwart Tom Morrison takes over as captain-coach. Voted last season’s Macarthur player of the year, the respected forward leads a squad mixed with new and old faces.
“It was a tough season last year, I was happy when it was over,” said Draper.
“We finished sixth but we only had five wins, so really we were quite a bit off the pace. There has been lots of changes in the off-season, and so far it’s all coming together.
“Tom is a popular choice as coach, and everyone is getting right behind him. He has adjusted the training programs and there’s a noticeable change in attitude across the board.
“We’ve had a big turnover of players, but we still had 40 signed by January 30, and there’s been around 60 making regular appearances at training.”
Despite the loss of more than a handful from last season’s starting side, the Eagles will count on a host of familiar faces topped up by recruits and talented juniors.
Major signings include Lucas Castle and Joseph Romeo from second division English club, Whitehaven. A damaging prop, Castle also brings experience from two seasons in the NSW Cup, while Romeo – a noted try scorer – is one to watch out wide.
“We are fortunate to have a core of regular players returning. Sean Connor, Brett Lahey and Alex Potifara are back alongside the likes of Tom, Raymond Redman and Kobe Chamberlain,” said Draper.
“Former NRL fullback Nathan Gardner has been training, but will see how his body feels before making a commitment for the entire season.”
With Tallyn Da Silva leading a crop of East Campbelltown juniors in the NRL ranks, Draper expects to see the pick of the next crop continue to develop in the senior grades later this year.
“The club takes great pride in the development of local talent. Our primary focus is bringing juniors through before we recruit from the outside,” he said.
“In the recent NRL trial there were five former Eagles representing the Wests Tigers. And our depth in the under-18s is still excellent, currently there’s 18 playing junior reps in the Wests Tigers’ pathways.
“Brooklyn Millford and Matthew Lucas are two who could play first grade for us this year. Brooklyn is a hooker who tasted first and reserve grade last season and Matthew is a gifted halfback in the Magpies’ SG Ball squad.
In terms of surprises, the club president said there’s no shortage of talent to keep fans on edge.
“Jack Crichton is one who could have a major impact in the middle. He’s 200cm with a background including Shute Shield rugby union,” he said. “And we’ve picked up three from the NSW Police Rugby League competition who are showing plenty of promise.”
Major new signings: Joseph Romeo (Whitehaven UK), Lucas Castle (Whitehaven UK), Jack Crichton (rugby union)
Major departures: Shaun Sauni-Esau (Narellan), Salesa Tavui (Narellan), Eddy Fono (Narellan), Jacob Esau (Narellan), Alex Mataia (Narellan), Kilifi Tia-Kilifi (South West), Bailey Rye (South West), Tristyn Ball (Oakdale)
Last season: 6th
Number of titles (Group 6, Macarthur): One - 2012
Opening month: East Campbelltown
Round 1: Campbelltown Collegians (H), Sunday, April 6
Round 2: Bye
Round 3: Thirlmere (H), Sunday, April 27
Round 4: Campbelltown City (H), Sunday, May 4
NARELLAN JETS
It’s been no ordinary off-season at Narellan, with new coach Jake Tonitto clearing the decks and ushering in a host of new faces as the Jets prepare to climb off the bottom of the ladder.
After one season at the helm of East Campbelltown, Tonitto returns to Narellan and takes over the coaching duties from Levi Dodd who is set to continue his playing career at Mittagong.
“It’s good to return to the Jets and I’m keen to see the seniors get back on their feet,” said Tonitto, who coached the juniors for four years until 2017.
“Last season the club struggled for numbers and the results weren’t good across both grades. We’ve been fortunate to attract experienced first graders, but it’s difficult to have success without strength in the lower grades, so we’ve beefed up the numbers and taken on players eager for an opportunity.
“The goal is to put a system in place for the juniors to continually make the transition to the senior ranks, and all going well, attract players back to the club who have moved on.”
A pivotal piece in the club’s revival is the addition of former Sydney Roosters prop Poasa Fa’amausili.
“Building up strength in the middle was a priority, and we needed leaders too,” Tonitto said of the 29-year-old enforcer who brings seven seasons of NRL experience.
“Poasa finished up at Canterbury last season, and the way it turned out we were fortunate to sign him by the end of October.
“He was our first recruit and has been brilliant. Technically he knows the game inside out and the way he conducts himself and talks to the other players is very impressive.”
While several big names have moved on, more than a handful of former East Campbelltown players have followed the coach to Narellan.
“Jacob Esau and Eddy Fono have come across and alongside Poasa, we’ll be strong upfront,” said Tonitto.
“Levi Bromfield is another great addition. He’s a premiership winner and played 80 minutes on most occasions in the middle at Thirlmere last year.”
On the creative front, the Jets coach is comfortable despite the departure of gun half Tyrone Harding.
“Tyrone was excellent for Narellan last season and we wish him all the best at Collies. In terms of quality around the ruck, we’ve added Hosea Leuea and Joshua Taylor-Myles,” he said.
“Hosea is a livewire at No.7 and joins after a strong season with Collies. Josh is a talented hooker who played reps in the Shire last year, he controls the ruck and has a good turn of pace.
“The squad is shaping up well and we still expect to announce more signings before round one. I’m happy with where we are at.”
Major new signings: Tomasi Tavui (after Wests – Laurie Daley Cup), Tipeni Tofilau (St Marys), Mark Aiatia (Minchinbury Jets), Salesa Tavui (East Campbelltown Eagles), Shaun Sauni-Esau (East Campbelltown Eagles), Levi Bromfield (Thirlmere), Joshua Taylor-Myles (Aquinas Colts), Hosea Leuea (Campbelltown Collegians), Eddy Fono (East Campbelltown Eagles), Justice Leota (St Marys SS), Poasa Fa’amausili (Canterbury NRL), Jacob Esau (East Campbelltown Eagles), Alex Mataia (East Campbelltown Eagles)
Major departures: Tyrone Harding (Campbelltown Collegians), Josiah Tamasi (Mittagong), Levi Dodd (Mittagong), Will Saunders (Mittagong), Gordon Toomalatai (Mittagong), Shane Kiel, Danny Ghantous, Kenny Niko, Alfred Smalley (Parramatta – NSW Cup)
Last season: 11th
Number of titles (Group 6, Macarthur): Two - 1996, 2004
Opening month: Narellan Jets
Round 1: Camden (A), Sunday, April 6
Round 2: Mittagong (A), Sunday, April 13
Round 3: Picton (H), Sunday, April 27
Round 4: South West (A), Sunday, May 4
SOUTH WEST GOANNAS
In a major signing coup for South West, the Goannas are on the cusp of agreeing to terms with former NRL journeyman Joey Leilua.
After surviving the axe to remain in the Macarthur competition 12 months ago the imminent signing continues a string of good news for South West, following a 2024 season in which the Luke Deller-coached outfit posted three victories
“Joey has been training every single day,” Deller said of the 33-year-old former NRL grand finalist, who represented Dapto in last year’s Illawarra competition.
“At this stage it looks likely that he will sign, but we are just waiting on the formalities.”
The loss of inspirational skipper Eddie Faalua isn’t ideal, but with former internationals Greg Eastwood and Brad Takairangi committed for another season, South West are perfectly placed to climb the ladder.
“We’ve kept most of the first grade squad from last season and added depth from outside the competition,” said Deller.
“Last year we came together at late notice, but this time we had good numbers at training before Christmas. At the moment we have 40-plus on the books and are confident we can build on what was achieved last season.
“It’s an exciting time for the club. There’s also new sponsors on board and we are starting to see the rewards of all the hard work.”
Major new signings: Bailey Rye (East Campbelltown), Shaun Va’alepu (Colyton), Noah Carberry-Beale (Griffith Waratah), Benet Maalo (ex Bulldogs/Bears pathways), Andrew Aiono (Glenmore Park, ex-RMC), Kilifi Tia-Kilifi (East Campbelltown), Troy Dargin (Windsor), Joey Leilua (Dapto, ex-NRL)
Departures: Joel Etherington (Picton), Eddie Faalua (Mounties), Jared Ross (Blacktown RMC)
Last season: 10th
Number of titles (Group 6, Macarthur): None
Opening month: South West Goannas
Round 1: Bye
Round 2: Thirlmere (H), Sunday, April 13
Round 3: Campbelltown City (A), Sunday, April 27
Round 4: Narellan (H), Sunday, May 4
CAMPBELLTOWN COLLEGIANS
Campbelltown Collegians were boom or bust in 2024. They only finished with five wins, but after a slow start to the season they showed glimpses of a team ready to crack the top five.
After riding the highs and lows of an entertaining year, Collies first grade manager Mitch Hoffmann believes that with the addition of the club’s six high profile recruits, they’re ready to climb above last season’s seventh spot.
“We’ve always been on the fringe and this year we want to improve and make the finals,” said Hoffmann.
“We had the ability last year but there needs to be an improvement in work ethic and commitment to training if we are to consistently match the top sides. Over the off-season we have worked on recruiting players with a strong mindset and focus.”
Former NRL outside back Ken Sio is a key signing from Thirlmere, and alongside former Narellan halfback Tyrone Harding, Hoffmann has been impressed with how the pair have settled in.
“Our pre-season commenced a month before Christmas, so the boys will be much fitter than the start of last season. Ken and Tyrone have already raised the benchmark,” he said of a squad that will once again be led by boom backrower, Tifa Iuta.
“Tyrone is a great signing. He’s super keen and looking good, he’ll be a great addition for us.”
Major new signings: Tyrone Harding (Narellan), Ken Sio (Thirlmere), Blake Clayton (Penrith Brothers), Viliame Seuseu Ravouvou (Guildford), Henry Lealuga-Puhotau (Picton), Leon Longbottom (Picton)
Major Departures: Hosea Leuea (Narellan), Jaycob Oloaga (Picton)
Last season: 7th
Number of titles (Group 6, Macarthur): None
Opening month: Campbelltown Collegians
Round 1: East Campbelltown (A), Sunday, April 6
Round 2: The Oaks (H), Sunday, April 13
Round 3: Oakdale (A), Sunday, April 27
Round 4: Camden (H), Sunday, May 4
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