August 23, 2026 ·
Tim Booth
·
Old Colleagues
OLD COLLEAGUES NEWS AUGUST 2026
What a month or three weeks since our last newsletter. Some incredible performances by the Kentwell Cup who’s finals aspirations were up for grabs every game. And all the while the lower grades ,Colts and Blue Birds were growing in confidence and winning their ways into finals position.
In fact as I write I suspect the Clubs Halligan Cup 6th grade Blue Giants are feeling a little below par today after big celebrations after winning their comp yesterday. A Grand Final win against Kings Old Boys 2nds 22-3, 4 tries to none.Their third premiership in a row, a credit to the Taylor brothers last years Honour cap winners and sons of Old Colleague Peter Taylor (1980’s) who coach, organise the beers and sometime play. First silverware of the season, and a great start to the finals series.
The final 3 rounds were against Blue Mts at home, Hunters Hill at home and Mosman away, all must win propositions.
Due to over night rain round 12 the top two grades were moved to the synthetic Easts Beasts ground across the creek. The wider field and the harder surface seemed to be enjoyed by both teams and the game was played in a Grand Final spirit. Some great running rugby however the Blue Giants found them selves under the pump late in the game with plenty of points to make up and the season on the line for both teams. However the never say die attitude of he Blue Giants clicked into gear and the tiring big Blue Mts forwards were feeling the pinch. Three tries in 15 minutes final scoreline 32-31 to the good guys. The last try in the dying minute came through a shift on the blind side to the big number 4 the clubs favourite irishman (100 gamer) Evan Culhane who bumped off a few would be tacklers and powered 10 metres to score next the to the posts. UNBELIEVEBLE !!!
The Blue Mountains game has been the turning point for the Blue giant Kentwell Cup season. The following week the Kentwell played another competition heavy weight Hunters and played some confident and determined footy racking up a big score. Hunters were not done with however and in the latter part of the game scored several tries, making the scoreline 50-40 (Giants 6 tries all backline scorers).Taking the foot of the pedal is always dangerous against a quality oppo.
In the final game of the season the Blue Giants crossed the harbour to do battle with the Mosman Whales. Key interest In the Colts game being a contest for the Minor Premiership. It was not to be going down in the final minute 20-18. I am confidant that this loss will spur the Colties on and they will be a team to be reckoned with during the finals.
In the main game Mosman didn’t put up a contest which they are known for at home and even their ladies day wasn’t going to help! Blue Giants scoring a club record 69 points in their 69-24 drubbing of the whales who also lost the Burke 50-0. Talking Burke congrats to those (D. K. coached) Blue Giants who put it together at the tale end of the season winning their last three game and causing a lot of grief to teams higher up the comp ladder.
So the season ends, all bets are off, sudden death all the way, big defence, unbreakable set piece, safe hand, and play tough will do it.
Here is the draw for week one Drummoyne Oval except for the 5ths
(Following two weeks are at Concord)
Sutherland v Waves at Boronia Park
Judd v Waves
Blue Birds v Waves
Whiddon v Drummoyne
Colts v Mosman
Kentwell v Lindfield
Full details on the NSW Subbies web
See you at Drummoyne Oval
Go the Colleagues and a big thank you to Vance Lowry for his contributions this season. certainly lifted to standard of the newsletter!
‘Around the Grounds’: Vance Lowry (Author: Sky Blue Winters)
Many old Colleagues will have some sort of enduring memory of the ‘business end of the season’. For some it will be the ‘sweet taste of success,’ with a medal or inscribed tankard (Premiers)as a memento Others may have to contemplate ‘the one that got away.’ (I could have been a contender or Rocky syndrome.)
As the legendary Tom Petty cynically vocalised ‘I’m a loser at the top of my game’.
One certainty is that no one will remember who got second place! Colleagues have had an impressive record of success so far. Statistics do not lie. Since 1933 Colleagues has won 16 Kentwell Cup Premierships,20 Burke,12 Whiddon,6 Judd, 7 Sutherland, 5 Barbour and 10 Noice/Halligan Cups.
All of these have been contested on a wide and diverse variety of grounds. Some have been of high quality, while earlier in our history, dust bowls and cow paddocks. Poor field marking, lack of basic facilities (showers with freezing cold water or no showers at all, poor seating etc.) This year the semi-finals will be held at Drummoyne Oval (upper field) and Taplin Park (lower field). Drummoyne has been used previously as a grand final venue in the late 50s and early 60s. It was redeveloped in 2012-13 when six fifty-metre-high light towers were constructed. It is a multi-purpose sports field catering for Cricket, Australian Rules and Rugby Union. One essential principle adhered to by Subbies Admin has been that a ‘neutral ground’ (when possible) is allocated for these important games. This year both the preliminary final and grand final will be played at Concord Oval. This field has figured prominently in Colleagues recent history as a successful venue for the club.
In the 1960s it was referred to as ‘the dustbowl’. Thankfully it was redeveloped, first in 1995 ($85 million), and later in 2020 ($51 million). The current stadium is now a wonderful venue for the conclusion of the Suburban season. Older Colleagues may also recall playing grand finals at Chatswood Oval (Gordon rugby) in the early 70s. It too was a dustbowl, with a cement like cricket pitch in the middle. In the late 90s and mid -2000s, the Macquarie University fields in North Ryde were the venue for all elimination semis, prelim finals and grand finals. It a was a well- maintained oval with a ‘Colosseum like spectator pit.’ The Blue Giants strode out like Roman Gladiators, as the Colleagues ruling aristocracy looked down upon their opposing victims, and pontificated over the expected result.
In the early 2000s grand-finals were held at the grey hound dog racing track at Wentworth Park. The oval itself was encircled by the race track. This set the scene for one of the most bizarrely amusing afternoons I have ever experienced. The ground’s man had obviously been ordered to prepare the dog track for a race meeting in the evening following the rugby. As a diligent employee, he sat in the driver’s seat of his tractor, towing specialised tractor equipment which levelled, watered, and packed the sand surface. His ultimate objective was to achieve a safe and uniform surface for the dogs. He was oblivious to the rugby being played only metres away on the oval, and carried on undeterred. This process continued for the majority of the afternoon. In the end, most of spectators were mesmerised watching him go round and round this dog track. The rugby took second place. The crowd gave him three cheers when he completed his task! Many spectators were asking each other what the score was when he finished. It could only happen in subbies! What pity Wentworth Park is being demolished!
The UNSW David Phillips sports field in Daceyville has also served as an important venue. It has hosted semis, finals, and grand finals but, perhaps, was not as centrally located as it could have been. It is nevertheless a high-quality facility. Because of its location, the T.G. Millner was the perfect venue for both spectators and players. It has two well prepared pitches, bar and kiosk, grandstand and good spectator viewing. The only downside was a shortage of parking. The facility is ageing but is still a great venue. It was also the site of Colleagues ‘Grand Slam’ in 2011 giving it a sentimental aura. It is such a pity that its continued existence remains in limbo. The following development was announced originally in 2024 however the whole saga of uncertainty evolved in 2017. The battle between Ryde Council and the NSW State Government has highlighted tensions between housing growth and increasing pressure on sporting fields around Sydney. A $128.9 million plan would see the home of Eastwood being bulldozed to make way for a 106- home housing estate. Eastwood players and supporters see T.G. Millner as their spiritual home Well done to Eastwood rugby club in being a competitive force in the Shute Shield despite this background drama.
We hope you have enjoyed our combined columns.
Best of luck to the Blue Giants teams who make through to the big one in 2026
Vance.
August 10, 2026 ·
Tim Booth
·
Old Colleagues, Weekly news
OLD COLLEAGUES NEWS JULY 2026
Old Colleagues News July
In rugby terms July August rounds 9-11 has been an 8 man shove towards the finals. The usual pitfalls mid season, injuries, work trips,and skiing holidays included.But Colleagues as a club have put in the big ones in and its been a great effort to see the majority of teams in finals contention.
Round 9 After a couple of narrow losses the Giants were back a home in Must win game against Petersham. The Shammies through every thing at the Giants and were dangerous the whole game. It was not until the final few moment that the Giants class shone through.
A Chip and chase in front of the club house balcony was worth the admission price alone!! A couple of Cowra country giants emerging as Kentwell quality standing out during the game and doing the job.
Round 10 Away again this time to Drummoyne all games played on the back field Taplin Oval (Due to a Crap weather week) This time last season we had an identical scenario and disappointingly the Kentwell went down ina narrow arm wrestle. This I was thinking was going to happen again half way through the second half however the Blue Giants pulled together and came away with a solid 49-27 with Simmo showing his speed from full back setting up a spectacular full field tri many hands contributing. Again the lower grades were powering along with a majority of wins.
The round 5 catch up game was played next the Blue Giants put their number ones on and manned the bus to Blue Mountains for the annual posh and add some class to the mountains round.
The away game in the mountains is always a challenge but the posh Giants and the Colleagues Blue Birds rose to the challenge winning 4 of the 6 away games!In the Kentwell a magnificent breakout downfield run by Colleagues back rower stalwart Aidan Brown and finished off by the all skills Giants Captain Theo Strang put the mountains away in the dying minutes of the game.An outstanding never say die come from behind performance
Round 11 and Giants traveled over the bridge and up the highway to Old Soldiers Lindfield Rugby (Old Boys Day).
At Soldiers Memorial Park so called because of a memorial in the park remembering local residents who fought not played in the 1st World War!!!
In the Kentwell Lindfield came out firing every ball stuck and they took advantage of a couple of Blue Giant penalties and turnovers to run up an early score line. The second half the Giants found their mojo and powered home to just go down 29-24 in a hard fought but entertaining game. Tough day in the office for the boys on a grassless rock hard deck. (Lindfield showing signs of being a contender for the Cup)
Season Standings Update
With round 11 behind us and just two games to go ( Hunters Hill at home 8th Aug, and Mosman away 15th Aug. )
Kentwell are sitting 4th on the ladder just in front of Blue Mountains.
Colts (Barber Cup) are on top of the comp while Whiddon are 4th, Judd are 2nd, Sutherland 1st (undefeated), 6ths (Haligan) 1st, the Blue Birds are 5th and the Colts 2nds (Radford) are 5th.
Ladies day and last home game this weekend 8th August
(Black arm bands for Sandy Ross R.I.P.)
See you on the Balcony
“Go the Colleagues”
Boothie
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August 2, 2026 ·
Tim Booth
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Old Colleagues
Vale’ Alexander (Sandy) Ross
Saddened to inform Old Colleagues of the passing of Sandy Ross on the 25th July, after a period of ill health. Sandy was an active and committed club member for over 20 years. An Old Colleague who with many of those of his era formed the foundations and traditions of the Colleagues Rugby Club. Respected both on the field and in business he was a person who inspired many. Sandy played 300 Games for the club from Kentwell Cup to Whiddon Cup, it was many an Old Colleague who was proud to run on knowing he was in your team.
Sandy was a leader for the Colleagues in so many ways, he was always immaculately dressed and I can remember to my amazement his shiny polished leather boots in the dressing room when I first played for the club.
From all Colleagues our thoughts are with his family and friends at this time
The list of his huge commitment to the Colleagues including multiple premierships. 1963-1964 Kentwell, 1969-1971 Kentwell Captain, 1973-1974 Whiddon Captain (back row), 1975-1978 Burke Cup (Front row),1979 Whiddon Captain, 1980 Judd Cup Captain, 1981 Burke Cup Premiers, 1982-1986 Whiddon Captain, 1985 awarded Oldest and Boldest cup and Life Membership in 1988.
In 1970 was the Club’s Secretary and general committee in 1974 and 1975.
From all Colleagues our thoughts and prayers are with the great man’s family and at this time.
Sandy’s memorial service
Thursday 6th August
Sacred Heart Church
2 Richard Porter Way, Pymble
11.00am
Tributes can be left at www.tributes.smh.com.au
Live stream available via Gregory and Carr Website on Thursday.
June 24, 2026 ·
Tim Booth
·
Old Colleagues, Weekly news
After what seemed an eternity, Blue Giant rugby returned after a wash out against Blue Mts away and then the following weekend’s Kings birthday long weekend.
It looked like rust took hold fairly quickly for the Kentwell Giants as they looked all at sea and suffered a surprise lost to Mosman on Old Colleagues day. (Boo)
Disappointing especially as I had been spruking the possibilities of the Kentwell Cup season to anyone who would listen for 4 hours at the previous days exceptional Long Lunch.
Talking about the Long Lunch, plenty of laughs from Wallabies Gita,Ashley Cooper and Drew Mitchell (who said later it was one of the best lunches they had been to for years). All magnificently MC’ed by our own Ben Wood (not woods lol)
A big representation by the 1996 Giants reminisced as Club President Chris Price went through the stories and personalities that made up that incredible season 30 years ago.
A presentation by Cam Ireland launched the fund raising drive for the revamp of the club hse facilities was well received and on that point now is the appropriate time in the financial year to make a tax deductible donation giving back in a small way to our great club
Donations for the club can be made through the Australian Sports Foundation. Old Colleagues will remember this was the successful process that raised moneys to build our Club House opened back in 2003 and now the envy of every subbies club.
//asf.org.au/campaigns/woollahra-colleagues-rugby-union-football-club/woollahra-colleagues-rufc-infrastructure-and-development-fund
Round 7 (of 12), The Blue Giants traveled to Boronia Park to face old foe Hunters Hill. Perfect conditions saw a fast moving game in the Kentwell Cup with Hunters getting away with a big start and the Colleagues grinding away in the second half to get very close before some defensive lapses, indiscretions a yellow card (again) proved damaging and the team suffered a brave loss against the team to beat this season.
The Days Highlight was the gritty and welcome back win for the Burke Cup. I suspect more to come for the Burkies as their combinations look to become more settled.
Next game sees the start of the second round V Waves away on 27th June,
then Shammies at home on the 4th July and then the Mts away catch up game on 18th July.
The Club’s teams are well positioned in each of the grades but experience will tell you these next few games are the hard yards and there are valuable points on offer before the back end of the season ( hear endeth the lesson)
As a special mention to the Colleagues “Blue Birds” girls team whose presence lit up the room at the long lunch, and whose rugby is respected by all opposition teams . (such a welcome addition to the Colleague family.)
See you on the balcony!
Go the Colleagues
Boothie
Verbal Rugby. Vance Lowry (Author: Sky Blue Winters)
The Game
‘In 1823, William Webb Ellis first picked up a ball in his arms and ran with it. And for the next 156 years, forwards have been trying to work out why.’ (Sir Tasker Watkins President of WRU)
‘Rugby is a good occasion for keeping 30 bullies far from the center of the city.’ (Oscar Wilde)
‘Nobody in rugby should be called a genius. A genius is a guy like Norman Einstein.’ (NZ Jonno Gibbs)
‘Rugby players are either piano shifters or piano movers. Fortunately, I am one of those who can play a tune.(The ever- modest Pierre Danos)
‘It’s the first time I’ve been cold for 7 years. I was never cold playing rugby league.’ (Johnathan Davies on his return to rugby union)
‘The only thing you’re ever likely to catch on the end of an English backline is chilblains.’ (David Campese)
‘Rugby is a game for big buggers. If you’re not a big bugger then you get hurt. I wasn’t a big bugger but I was a fast bugger and I, therefore, avoided big buggers. (Spike Milligan)
‘Sure there have been injuries and deaths in rugby – but none of them serious’. (All Blacks team Doctor, John ‘Doc ‘Mayhew)
‘If History repeats itself, I think we can expect the same thing over.’ (NZ Anton Oliver)
‘You never want to be the guy that talks it up and then can’t back it up, training like Tarzan and playing like Jane’. (England’s James Haskell)
‘You’re a clever fucker, aren’t you’: hooker to winger. Winger to hooker: ‘Yeah well you’re short, fat, bald and old and your wife doesn’t love you.’(anon)
Young scrum half on debut to opposing experienced half: ‘Don’t hurt your back putting the ball in, old man.’ Retort: ‘I would give you some abuse but I have no idea who the fuck you are.’ (England’s Andy Gommersell)
Refereeing
‘Refereeing is the only job where you start the game with no friends and actively work to make it stay that way.’ (anon)
‘Without referee’s rugby would be just a bar fight with uniforms.’ (anon)
‘I’m the referee. One of us is right and the other is you.’ (Nigel Owens)
Referee to argumentative player: ‘You have been under the misapprehension that this is a dialogue…. when it is, in fact, a monologue.’ (Nigel Owens)
‘I’m not sure we have met before, but I’m the referee.’ (Nigel Owens)
Referee to 2 disagreeable players in a ‘he fuckin started it’ confrontation: ‘I don’t care who started it, you can both fuck off with your yellows right now or continue it and fuck off with your reds later. What’s it going to be?’ (anon)
‘Referees: masters of flags, whistles and silent stares.’ (anon)
‘Why do referees carry cards? To handle adult arguments quickly.’ (anon)
‘Abuse directed at the ref is self-explanatory – or kept simple enough so he’ll at least understand it.’ (Justin Brown)
‘We want consistency, but don’t want a consistent referee to consistently blow their whistle.‘ (Murray Mexted, All-Black)
Unsteady Eddie & his visionary role model view: ‘We need to make sure that we have respect because we are asking kids to be respectful to the referee and if they see coaches being disrespectful it gives them an example of how to do it at their level.’
Reality of the same Eddie, May 13th 2026 SMH – Footage of Eddie Jones pacing the sidelines and abusing a young referee in Coffs Harbour has emerged after a complaint from Rugby Australia led to the Wallabies & England coach being suspended for 6 weeks by the Japanese RFU.
Jones was suspended for 4 matches and fined for his behavior toward match officials during a Japanese under 23 Tour of Australia in April. He was also fined more than $10,000 because of verbal abuse directed at local match officials.’ He was stunned by the severity of his punishment and apologized having deeply regretted his behavior!
‘I never comment on referees and I’m not going to break the habit of a lifetime for that prat.’ (Ewen McKenzie, Aust Coach)
Rugby and Relationships (all anonymous)
‘My wife told me to choose between rugby & her. I said sure, just give me 90 minutes to mull it over.’
Text between troubled couple – 3pm girlfriend: ……’Me or rugby?’ 5pm boyfriend: …. ‘You, of course, darling’.
Perspective on Rugby Players: ‘I can tell from the people you attract that you are, indeed, quite popular with a certain type.’
First date to Rugby Player: ‘I don’t think I drink enough to date you.’
Girl friend to Rugby Player: ‘Your orthodontist sure had his work cut out for him!’
Rugby player to Lecturer after a loss on the field and a failing tutorial grade: ‘I chose your class for its awesome student-to-pompous- asshole ratio.’
Date to rugby player: ‘Having met your brother, I thought you’d be really hot.’
Rugby player to date: ‘Let’s go Dutch. I don’t want you to have any expectations.’
Girlfriend to rugby player: ‘I need to discover who I am without you’.
Coach to rugby player: We both failed. You failed to succeed and I failed to drop you sooner.’
Coach to rugby player: ‘You’ve got a very bright future ahead of you in another club.’
‘Rugby is just like love. You have to give before you can take. And when you give the ball it’s like making love—you must think of the other’s pleasure before your own.’ (French full – back Serge Blanco)
June 1, 2026 ·
Tim Booth
·
Old Colleagues, Weekly news
OLD COLLEAGUES NEWS MAY 2026
Season 2026 is well underway and the Colleagues Blue Giants are in to it both on and off the pitch including a huge squad of Colts and the Colleagues girls team “Blue Birds as I call them causing a noticeable positive vibe throughout!
The season started with a cracking Anzac day event against Waverley. The two Kentwell teams lined up with the last post playing remembering those who served and protected the freedoms we enjoy today. A memorable and unique day for the club, and the Kentwell Blue Giants did not let the big crowd down putting together a stern defensive effort followed by some brilliant ball play running out winners 43-21. Wins also in the Colts, Sutherland and Blue Birds (Girls).
Second round saw the Blue Giants take on Petersham at Camperdown oval (where a car parking withing a km radius is a myth) on a fine day on the sideline (with seating as scare as the parking) not troubling the Colleagues winning Kentwell, Colts, Whiddon, Judd, Sutherland and a draw for the Blue Birds. Kentwell continued where they left off against Waves and scored a most entertaining win 29-12.
Third round, another away game this time against Drummoyne (another inhospitable venue) on their ladies day (looking a bit short on numbers compared to the Colleagues version). Again the Giants came in force dominating in most games. The Kentwell running out winners 26-12. Highlight of the day, a number of Old Colleagues attending and also Old Colleague dads on the fence to watch their sons going round including Matt Collett watching son Hugo and Pete Calligeros watching son George making his debut in the Kentwell in the front row !
Fourth round after a wet weather bye the Giants were back at home in wintery drizzly slippery conditions against Lindfield. The club house was buzzing as the sideline crowd and players took refuge under cover, also a massive colts party going on with the club fielding three colts sides and the first colts scoring a 99-5 win with one of the boys scoring a huge 34 individual point. Both stats club records. It was a different story in the Kentwell. In the toughest contest of the season, an arm wrestle in any sense and not surprising considering the conditions Linfield were victors worrying the Colleagues into a few errors late in the piece and just edging ahead 27-22
Next up is Blue Mountains away at Lapstone. (This round I’ll be happy watching the game from home in the Tim Booth stand on NSW Rugby TV). Www.nswrugbytv.com.au
DIARY note: LONG LUNCH Coming up fast with a celebration of the 1996 season wins (4 from 5)
Friday 12th June,12.00 kick off Dockside, 2 Wheat Rd Sydney. LINK BELOW
//checkout.square.site/merchant/90N9424CH4K4A/checkout/EPM7WCBFBCO2UV4OZTX3CNQF
DIARY Note
Old Colleagues Day and long lunch recovery !
Saturday 13th June, home game Vs Mosman. If last years day is anything to go by a huge day beckons with Old Colleagues from all generations making an appearance.
The Evolution and Dynamic Development of Suburban Rugby.
Vance Lowry (Author: Sky Blue Winters)
Many Suburban rugby clubs were formed and named after the local municipalities where they originated and this still characterizes Division 1 Suburban rugby today. (Woollahra Colleagues, Drummoyne, Waverley, Hunters Hill). Some were also named as old boy clubs based around schools (Knox OB, St Pats, St Ignatius, Trinity, Newington). In the early days, others were named after the primary activity of their members (Bondi Lifesavers, NSW Fire Brigades, Bank of NSW).
Since 1932 the Kentwell Cup has been contested some 98 times.
In 1932, Waverley College (the school) contested, and won, the Kentwell Cup against Hunters Hill. This was a remarkable achievement pitted against older, bigger and heavier opponents. The schoolboys played running rugby with great ball handling skills and fluency. Sanity prevailed and they did not contest it the next year, preferring to compete in the newly created schools’ competition and not against adults.
The concept of promotion and relegation, along with other factors, has fundamentally altered the profile of the Division 1 clubs. Briars (a powerhouse club in the 50’s and 60’s) now plays in a lower division. Furthermore, many of the old boy clubs have had to join them. Some have completely disappeared. Others have had to merge with another club to survive. At the end of each playing season, the promotion and relegation of clubs is based on club championship points: this alters the composition of Division 1.
At the time of writing in 2026, Newport had been relegated and Petersham promoted. Some handle the upward transition while others find it more difficult.
Petersham have a checkered recent history as they won the Kentwell Cup in 2017 (also Club Champions) and 2018. After spending some time in Division 2, they have fought their way back up to Division 1 this season. Other fairly recent promotion success stories are Blue Mountains and Hunters Hill. Blue Mountains won the Cup in 2023-24, while Hunters Hill, who, previously, had been very dominant during the late 70’s and early 80’s, proved too strong for the mountain men in last year’s Kentwell Grand Final.
Change is the law of life and those who only look to the past or present are certain to miss the future.
- John F Kennedy. (35th President of the US 1961-63)
All clubs, both OB and Municipal clubs, have also experienced their own internal pressures of change through player demographics. Player retirement may be due to age, family, study, and other commitments. Players may also contemplate retirement having won a premiership and ‘go out a winner.’ All these factors account for a natural rate of attrition.
In 60 odd years, the following clubs have disappeared, having won a Kentwell Cup Premiership previously: Newington OB, 1969; Bondi Lifesavers, 1971; Matraville, 1985, 86, 88, 91 (joint Premiers with Waverley St Leos, 1992; Dundas Valley, 2003. It is significant that, from these clubs, only Matraville was successful in adding the Bruce Graham Shield (Club Championship) to their trophy cabinet along with their Kentwell Cup in 1986. There is a strong correlation between the depth of a club and success at the top level.
Colleagues are indeed fortunate to have developed a formula for long term success. This involves a strategic philosophy in conjunction with the fostering of a harmonious egalitarian culture within the club. Stability and good governance are also paramount. One must also not forget the role of coaches with their technical skills and their ability to enhance morale within their team and the club.
Colleagues, as yet, have not suffered the indignity of relegation and, whatever the complex components of this magic elixir are, we need to continue to bottle it, as it has reliably transcended decades. This is not to say that the club has not weathered some poor seasons across all the grades. However, Colleagues has demonstrated resilience over time and the ability to ‘bounce back.’
There are no secrets to success. It is the result of preparation, hard work and learning from failure.
- Colin Powell.(65th Secretary of State of US 2001-2005)
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Calling all 96 season Colleagues winners for this years long lunch,(30 year reunion)
Sutherland
McGrath,Small,Riddell,Tracy,Shaw,Marks,Nisbet,Reynolds,Perkins,Willis,
DeCarvalho,Jolliffe,Breeze,Campbell(Assist),Welsh(Capt/coach),The General Paton
Bowman(Capt)Paradice,Roberts,Clarke,Lanause,Herbert,Johnson
Judd
Goot,Maxwell,Booth,Tilley(Capt),Lamont,Holdsworth,Ryan,Williamson,Corbett
Lloyd-Jones x2,Smith,Macfarlane,McCarthy,Apps,Keats,Upton,Theakson.
Cullen(Coach)
Whiddon
Cox,Heron,The General,Brincat,Schall,Sinclair,Lotz,Creagh,Buys,LLoyd Jones,Kendell,McCure,Dance,Linker,Einfield,Okamura,Macbride,Haimovich,
Wood(Coach),Foote(Assist),Taylor(Assist)
Kentwell
Urquhart,Brahimi,Cummins,Warfield,Nelson,Poolman,Richard,Gill,Clarke,Forsyth,
Gibson,Gooch,Bannister,Crawford,Sproats,Upton,Griffiths,Woods,Day,Dance,
Collett,Gray-Spencer(Coach)Gray-Spencer(Assist)
Old Colleagues please track down as many 96ers as possible for a great reunion afternoon.
May 10, 2026 ·
Tim Booth
·
Old Colleagues, Weekly news
Welcome to the first edition of the Old Colleague News for the 2026 season.
Vance Lowry (author of the club’s history Sky Blue Winters) and myself,combining an old blokes perspective on how the seasons going with something from the archives.
Happy to report a great turnout for preseason training and trials against Orange, NSW Uni, Petersham and Mosman. The Colleagues girls (“Blue Birds” as I’ve nicknamed them) have had several hit outs as well and are looking to build on last years successes.
In comp news Newport didn’t make the sizeable jump to the Kentwell Cup and heads back to second division, while foundation club Petersham 4 time Kentwell Cup winners since their foundation in 1883 (One win with a Wallaby to be Charlie Gamble in the back row) comes back up for another crack at the big time.
Looking forward to the big clash Vs Waverley on Anzac Day. A unique date/event for the club and sure to be a memorable day.
See you on the balcony
“Go the Colleagues”
Boothie
DIARY Note
Long Lunch Friday 12th and the launch of fund raising for the new Club extensions. (Standby for more info)
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The ANZAC Spirit at Colleagues
When Colleagues was established in 1933, it was against the background of a world economic environment of Depression. Our five founding fathers were certainly both determined and resilient considering they were only teenagers at the time.
It was a brave decision to embark on the formation of a rugby club. There were many clubs around Sydney seeking members and all 5 of our foundation members had played Sub-District rugby for other clubs in 1932. Furthermore, the economic environment was certainly not conducive to the forming of a new rugby club.
The Depression had devastating economic impacts on Australia. Record unemployment (32% in 1932), a decline in Gross Domestic Product (-17%), poverty, low profits, deflation, plunging incomes and a subsequent psychological drain in national confidence. It took over a decade to recover from this.
Despite this gloomy economic environment, it was an amazing achievement that Colleagues played their first Whiddon Cup game at Lyne Park, Rose Bay on Saturday May 9th 1933 (and were defeated by Bondi Lifesavers 11-3). By 1935 Colleagues fielded three teams in Whiddon, Bourke and Kentwell Cups. This wave of success was continued and translated into securing the Club Championship in 1938 and 1939.
While it is only conjecture, perhaps there was a twofold positive impact for all Subbies Clubs at this time. The Depression, as with COVID, precipitated the need to have some outlet which provided enjoyment to lift one’s spirits. Furthermore, the growth of District Clubs required the more serious commitment to 2 nights per week training. Suburban Clubs suited many time-poor prospective recruits who were looking for employment, may have families, or who had other responsibilities. Only 1 night per week training with Subbies was appealing.
Australia joined World War 2 on Sept 3 1939 following the Government’s acceptance of the United Kingdom’s declaration of war on Nazi Germany. Almost 1 million Australians, both men and women served in World War 2.
With the outbreak of war, Colleagues realized that they would no longer be able to continue as a normal rugby club and a special Emergency Meeting was held at Rushcutters Bay Oval on June 6th 1940. 31 members attended with the main agenda item being the disposition of club funds/assets. The decision was made to donate 100 pounds toward the war effort.
At an AGM on April 9th 1941, the Club Secretary announced that the club had just over 100 members serving in the armed forces.
At home, a skeleton crew of Colleagues continued to play in a smaller reformatted competition in 1940/41 winning both the Kentwell Cup and Club Championship in 1941.
Eventually the drain of numbers, through enlistments, took their toll and resulted in the suspension of the Sub-District Competition in 1942.
Colleagues re-united in 1946 and the 11th AGM was held on the 28th March 1946. It was announced that, in fact, 140 brave Colleagues had enlisted. Tragically 5 had sacrificed their lives in the service of their country. Seven had been captured as POW’S but returned reasonably healthy. No less than 18 were decorated for distinguished service.
Given the enforced break of the war, this AGM was very well attended. The resonance of the Club name Colleagues had been most appropriate: ‘We’re all in this together.’ Furthermore, Members had faithfully served their country, embracing the ANZAC spirit, and then re-united after the war; they proved they had (and still have) a commonality of purpose.
Vance Lowry (author Sky Blue Winters).
ANZAC Day Edition April 2026.
January 26, 2026 ·
Tim Booth
·
Old Colleagues, Weekly news
VALE’ Michael Stynes
Old Colleague Michael Stynes passed away Tuesday 20 January aged 86 years.
Michael joined the Colleagues in 1975, arriving from Randwick with a reputation as a quality rugby player with a lethal goal kick.
Michael who possessed a quite, mentor like personality coached the Kentwell Cup in 1975,1976 and 1977. Under Michael’s coaching each year team improvement was evident as was the implementation of the “Randwick” running game, a style the Colleagues club still enjoys playing today. Micheal a true club man played the odd game in Whiddon cup when called upon and was joint Treasurer in 1977 and on committee in 1978.
A loyal and good friend to many now welcomed into Rugby Heaven.
Tributes can be left by googling tributes.smh.com.au and searching Stynes
His funeral is being held at
St Francis Church,
Paddington at 10.30am on
Friday 30 January.
(Afterwards at Woollahra Golf Club)
…………………………………………………
VALE’ Jan Logan
The Colleagues are deeply saddened by the recent passing of Jan Logan mother of Old Colleague Angus Logan. Born in Narrabri, Jan raised her family on a farm before moving to Sydney. Jan an extraordinary businesswomen built a unique jewellery business nationally with three stores Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane.
Her jewellery has been worn by celebrities world wide including Tina Arena and Taylor Swift. All the time never forgetting the Colleagues, sponsoring the club for more than thirty years. On behalf of all Colleagues we extend our condolences to Angus and his family at this time.
(Jan’s son Angus,“Loges” a popular Old Colleague holds the distinction of hiding in the Whiddon Cup for several games before being a standout in the second half of the season for the 1992 Kentwell Cup).
………………………………….
Go the Colleagues
Boothie
October 12, 2025 ·
Tim Booth
·
Old Colleagues, Weekly news
OLD COLLEAGUES NEWS OCTOBER 2025
Thats a wrap.
Season 2025 came to a close for the Blue Giants with a bang.
Sutherland, Judd and Whiddon Cup teams all making their Grand Finals.
While the Sutherland came so close narrowly going down to season dream team heavy weights Waverley 16-15 under lights at Easts. It was victory to the Judd Cup Blue Giants 6-0 against Waverley (will bring the crowds back) and a big win for the Whiddon Cup Blue Giants with a come from behind 25-13 win against Waverley.(Again, serial pests).
And you put that silverware next to the Haligan Cup won the week before and its a bulging trophy cabinet 8 other clubs in the competition would be envious of.
All teams playing in the finals did the club proud, often playing well above their performances during the year. Over the years I have heard from many opposition players that Colleagues are always hard to beat in a Grand Final. No more so than season 2025.
Congrats to old foe Hunters Hill for winning both the Kentwell cup (after 28 years surprisingly) and the Club Championship (after 28 years surprisingly), there would have been some equally lengthy celebrations I would say.
Onward to 2026 with a Club chock full of club spirit, a club full of young Blue Giants and a young enthusiastic (proving to be successful) committee.
As far as club standings go 2026 looks like Newport will have another season down a grade and swap places with old club Petersham who took the Reliance Shield in Barraclough Cup after a season long running battle with NSW Uni. (Result came down to the last minutes in the last round)
Wishing all Old Colleagues a Sky Blue off season.
Until next year “Go the Colleagues”
Boothie and Vance
August 3, 2025 ·
Tim Booth
·
Old Colleagues, Weekly news
‘In Search of the Holy Grail’
Since the foundation of the Colleagues in 1933, the pursuit of the Club
Championship in Division 1 of Suburban Rugby has been the number one priority. It
represents an accurate measure of the real strength of the club across the grades. In
the last 15 years Colleagues have won the Club Championship in 2011, 2015, 2016
and 2023. These were achieved on the back of premierships in Kentwell (3), Burke
(3), Whiddon (3), Judd (3), Sutherland (4), Barbour (2).
The Kentwell Cup has great history and value and remains the pinnacle of Suburban
Rugby however it is highly competitive. Consecutive Kentwell premierships are rare
indeed. The reward of this prized trophy is built over time, with the development of a
player pool.
The Kentwell Cup is allocated the highest weighting of club championship points,
thus, there is a strong correlation between the two. Nevertheless, Colleagues has, in
many instances, had to rely on what Tim Booth (Colleagues legend and icon) refers
to as ‘the spine of the club’ or our middle and lower grades.
In 1998, the club, after a poor year across the grades, needed victories in all grades
in the penultimate round against Waverley. This they duly did, thereby avoiding the
humiliation of relegation to Division 2. A narrow escape indeed. This is why every
game in every grade matters.
Anyone who has been around suburban rugby for a while has seen former ‘heavy
weight’ clubs end up down the divisions. Once relegated, it can be a one-way trip. A
club’s reputation and drawing power can slide, leading to a player deficiency, lower
club morale and a critical need to revitalize methodology of club management.
Sometimes over-confidence and ‘resting on one’s oars’ are the catalysts for
catastrophe. Suburban rugby history is littered with the flotsam of now defunct clubs
which have ceased to exist, while others have been relegated, reduced their number
of teams or have had to merge to stay alive.
On a more optimistic note, in 2011 the win of the Club Championship by Colleagues
and the achievement of 5 premierships in all 5 grades was unprecedented – a ‘Blue
Rinse’ – and represents the other end of the spectrum. This is another illustration of
why every grade matters.
Vance Lowry (Author Sky Blue Winters)
June 29, 2025 ·
Tim Booth
·
Old Colleagues
OLD COLLEAGUES NEWS JUNE 2025
Season so far…….
Round 5 – Club travelled to the inner west to play Drummoyne and what has to be a record of some kind for the club and for subbies for that matter fielded 9 teams plus the Colleagues Convicts. The “light blue hue” was on show from from East lakes to Waitara to Merrylands. A great day’s results for the club with wins in all grades on Drummoyne Oval excepting a draw by the Burke. ( still qualifies as a blue rinse i’m told) Turned the dirty Reds pink I say ! Spiralling them into relegation territory! In the main game the Kentwell just got home with a win ugly tag, knock ons being the entree’ and turnover ball the main course on the menu for the Reds pretend ladies day. Highlights on a chilly day sitting on a cement seat in a grandstand better suited to watching cricket were the DJ pumping out ABBA at half time and sitting with some proud Old Colleague fathers watching their sons going round.
Round 6 Vs Mosman. It was Country round Vs the north shore Whales. Every player nominating their rugby origin revealing an amazing stat. 75% of today’s Blue Giants have bush blood heritage. (Its no wonder the bar needs constant restocking) The big crowd in boots and hats watched an incredible comeback performance by the Kentwell Cup against the competition front runners. Coming from nowhere in a tough contest the Blue Giant scrum took charge resulting in several penalties (one penalty try) to win in the dying minutes 25-24. The big vocal crowd creating a fantastic atmosphere for a memorable win.
Round 7 Vs Newport. I wasn’t tempted by the almost widened (now 7 years construction) Mona Vale Rd to drive to Porter Reserve, instead chose the Tim Booth stand and enjoyed watching at home on laptop through nswrugbytv.com.au. Newport are newly promoted to the Kentwell Cup this season replacing the relegated Forest Rugby. Old Colleagues will remember Newport’s last visit to first division was during the late 80’s and 90’s.(They were Kentwell winners in 1999) In 2023 they opened a nice new club house which is a bigger brother to the 1970’s model refurbed in the 90’s. Round 7 at Porter Reserve was a great day out for the Colleagues winning (rinsing) Newport in all grades. In the Kentwell Cup as can be the case against Newport the Blue Giants were confronted by an un-structured style of Newport play. The game saw both teams swapping tries before finally class showed through with a good away win to those magnificent men.
Round 8 Vs Hunters Hill. Well it was a day that started with some Blue Giant champers rugby from the lower grades and colts and then finished with a hangover with Burkies (hug a Burkie) and the Kentwell suffering disappointing losses. The top two grades have been under pressure recently due to some key player injuries and unavailability(Don’t tell me its the ski season ?) I’m confident the Blue Giants Burke and Kentwell will reset and refocus on the games ahead and be part of the action at the business end of the season. With a weekend off due to the Lion Vs Waratahs game next game is another tough one our local derby away against Waverley
See you on the Balcony
“Go the Colleagues”
Boothie
