A LADIES tackle competition in some shape or form as well as two new Board members will grace the Group 4 Rugby League 2025 season.

These were the major outcomes of Group 4’s annual general meeting (AGM) where Clarence ‘Lad’ Jones was returned as chairman.

“It was a very constructive AGM,” Jones said.

He said the addition of two current players – North Tamworth’s James Cooper and Boggabri’s Bailey Lennox – to the Board was one of the positives.

They join Jones, Narrabri’s John Rumsby, Tamworth’s Ron Binge, Narrabri’s Mark Lyon and Werris Creek’s Lisa Dellar on the seven-member G4 Board.

Secretary Donna Follington and treasurer Matt Old complete the new committee.

“We have also formed a sub-committee for the ladies tackle,” Jones said.

“Lisa and Cody (Tickle) are on that. “There’s a lot of interest in that after the two gala days (ladies tackle days at Scully Park and Boggabri).

“‘They are looking at the best way to introduce it. We won’t rush into it, don’t want a failure.

“Whether it be more gala days or a shortened season we don’t know.

“They will discuss it and work it out. They have some different ideas to work on.”

Jones said the fact the Group 4 Junior League is starting Under 15 and 17 girls tackle competitions in 2025 is a great boost for a pathway into senior ladies tackle as well.

Cody Tickle, the NSW Northern Region League and Club Support Co-Ordinator, said the sub-committee will meet next week to “brainstorm all the ideas”.

“We will try to find the most suitable way to move forward,” Tickle said.

“We will have a good idea of the positives and challenges are and work on a new competition.”

Jones said all nine clubs – Gunnedah, Moree, Kootingal, North Tamworth, Boggabri, Dungowan, Werris Creek, Narrabri and Wee Waa – had nominated three or four teams for 2025: first grade, reserve grade, under 18s and ladies leaguetag.

“It should make for a good competition,” Jones said.

“We are also having the Footie Feast again.

“Last year it was at Gunnedah. This year it will be at Scully Park on the opening round of the comp. April 4.

“However, it will be just for lower grades.

“First grade will played later on, on a date to be decided.

“We are also having a Northern Region Tri-Series again. Group 19 and 21 will play Group 4 at Scully Park in June in men, women and Under 18.”

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