20 April 2020

Letter From The President

Re: 2020 Season update re Covid 19.

Dear Hunter Rugby Family,

Firstly and most importantly, I hope you, your families and your friends are all safe and well as our Communities fight off this devastating virus. It’s changed our world in many ways and Hunter Rugby is no exception.

As we all go stir crazy and cabin fever sets in, we grow to appreciate the simple freedoms no longer afforded to us during these lock downs. The joy Grassroots Club Rugby brings to men, women, boys and girls…. and even referees, is priceless at times like this, so I want to give you an update on what the NHRU is doing to make sure Hunter Rugby will be ready to play.

Most importantly, we would like to thank our Sponsors – RAMS, Tooheys, Elders, The Hawthorn Club, Bar TV and the Newcastle Herald. Their continuing support is vital at this time.

The NHRU, like all businesses, have had to make some major adjustments. On Monday night, NHRU Board approved the reforecast budget and while it’s not pretty, if we all pull together, we can get through the Covid 19 affected 2020 season. Key changes to note are NHRU General Manager, Andy Fairfull, has voluntarily reduced his contract by 60% and is working two days a week with Directors supporting him on revival plans for the return of Rugby. Thanks to JobKeeper, the NHRU office is still functioning. Our Administration and Marketing team in Nicole and Anika are working from home on revised hours. The NHRU Board and staff have set tasks and are focused on making sure Hunter Rugby will not only be ready to play and will continue to broaden our horizons.

Rugby draws have been drafted on a number of scenarios and as the future becomes clearer, if we can play in 2020, we’ll be ready. Each of the NHRU Directors have “adopted” Hunter Clubs so we can keep close and understand the challenges they face and where we can help and support. For more information, you can contact Nicole on nicole@hunterrugby.com.au

Anika is keeping the Hunter Rugby News publications rolling as we keep the Hunter Rugby family engaged and informed. We’d like to share your stories of the personalities, camaraderie, and off field “Spirit of Rugby” even though we’re sidelined. Please contact and send Anika interesting stories of your Clubs coping mechanisms and any Club news. You can contact Anika on anika@hunterrugby.com.au

Please stay well and stay safe! When Rugby returns, we will be ready.

Yours in Rugby,

Bill Clifton,

President, NHRU.