At a meeting of the southern clubs held in Grenfell on Wednesday, which was chaired by Central West CEO Matt Tink, both Young and Boorowa were officially welcomed into the competition.

Mr Tink said that he was pleased and excited to have two new clubs of the standard of Young and Boorowa in the competition and there was bipartisan support from the other clubs who were looking forward to playing against them.

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Yabbies president Cec Finley said after three years in the ACT competition under the governance of Brumbies Rugby it was a great opportunity to play in a localised competition.

He further added that this was in no way dismissive of ACT rugby who has been most supportive of Young during our time with them.

However, the chance to play country rugby against neighbouring towns was a prime motivator in changing competitions.

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Finley further commented that other benefits included better exposure for our valued sponsors in a local environment, less travel to games and of course the opportunity to renew some old rivalries with local derby’s between sides such as Harden, Cootamundra, Grenfell, Boorowa and Temora.

Also, in the competition are West Wyalong, Condobolin and Canowindra.

“There is a real buzz around the club and it is an exciting time for Young rugby with a move to a more suitable competition that will be more attractive to players, our supporter base and our sponsors,” Mr. Finley said.

“The feedback around town had been extremely positive in relation to the change.”

The Young Yabbies Rugby Club annual general meeting will be held on Tuesday, October 23 at the Aussie Hotel commencing at 7pm.

The club is hoping for a large turnout to help drive a successful transition into the Central West competition.