‘High risk of folding’: Longstanding Newcastle and Hunter Rugby League club issues plea to save season

A proud Newcastle region club with over 70 years of history has its future in jeopardy with a lack of volunteers to step up to key roles. Here’s why the club is putting out at SOS to members.

The Raymond Terrace Magpies are desperately seeking executive volunteers to keep their 2025 season alive. Picture: Contributed

Raymond Terrace Magpies have issued an SOS for volunteers to step up and help the club in its time of need.

Executive positions are yet to be filled for the 2025 season, putting the future of the historical club in doubt.

Luke Handsaker and wife Shenae have filled key positions of president and secretary over the past four seasons, with Brooke Roach and Rodney Wade also taking important positions since 2020.

Commitments for the quartet mean they will be unable to continue that for another year, and with no fresh faces stepping up, it creates a tense situation for the Magpies.

“There’s no issues or falling outs, our commitments just aren’t aligning with what the club needs (for these positions),” Luke said.

“For myself personally, my kids are getting older and they need a bit more from me for their footy careers.

“I need to take a step back and focus on them, which makes it hard for me as president and Shenae as secretary.

“I’ve watched about half a dozen of my kids games over the past few years.”

Handsaker said the current committee has helped to put the club in a strong position going forward for prospective members to run with.

“There’s a big old boys base and the club is in a strong financial position with sponsors and a good standing in the community,” he said.

The Raymond Terrace Magpies have built a strong female playing base. Picture: Contributed

“It’s not like I’m leaving. I’m not going anywhere and will help transition into the new phase.

“I’ve been doing it for four years and have sacrificed a lot of time with my family and kids.”

The current issue Raymond Terrace is facing isn’t an unusual one for country rugby league teams, as many clubs struggle to get that needed commitment.

“It’s very hard to find volunteers to put in that time and effort,” he said.

A statement from the club highlighted the seriousness of the situation as they strive to continue their 70+ year history.

“The Magpies are yet to set a date for the Annual General Meeting (AGM), which is a crucial step in handing over the club’s management,” it read.

“The primary reason for this delay is that we have received NO applications for any executive positions within the club. These positions are a minimum requirement for the club to continue its operations.

“The lack of applications puts the club at a high risk of folding in the 2025 season. I cannot stress enough how vital it is for us to have active community engagement at this time.

“We are the largest senior club within our region, boasting 156 playing members across six teams, including Women’s Tackle, Women’s League Tag, and Men’s Tackle”

Originally published as ‘High risk of folding’: Longstanding Newcastle and Hunter Rugby League club issues plea to save season