Established in 1934, Nedlands Rugby Union Football Club (Nedlands RUFC) has a rich history intertwined with the area it represents. Just a few years earlier, in 1931, the Claremont Roads Board had split to form the Nedlands Road Board before eventually becoming the City of Nedlands. The land, originally settled in the 1850s by Captain John Bruce, was passed down to his son Edward. Over time, the area became known as “Ned’s Land,” later evolving into the name “Nedlands.” The Club’s emblem, the rampant lion, is believed to have come from the Bruce family crest.
The Club came to life on 5th April 1934 at a meeting hosted in Alec E Davies’ tearooms, located on the corner of Broadway and The Esplanade. Called by Cliff Stark, this meeting saw the birth of what is now an institution for rugby in Western Australia. Initially, the team donned black jumpers with a large gold “N” emblazoned on the chest. However, in 1962, the jersey colours were changed to blue and gold, reflecting those of the original Claremont Road Board.
During its formative years, Nedlands played on a temporary ground comprised of four vacant blocks on Aberdare Road. After nearly 20 years of moving between fields, the Club finally secured its permanent home on the Nedlands Foreshore in 1951, a location it had unofficially been using since 1946. The foreshore, originally reclaimed from the Swan River, had previously served as a camping and holiday ground before becoming a sports facility after World War II. Initially shared with the Associates Rugby Club, the ground became exclusively Nedlands’ in the 1980s.
Nedlands began its competitive rugby journey in 1934, and just a year later, the Club won its first B Grade grand final. This success drove membership numbers, which grew from 24 in 1935 to 55 in 1936. By 1939, the Club had earned promotion to A Grade and solidified its reputation by winning the 1940 A Grade grand final. This team boasted legends like Cliff Stark, Bob McMillan, Laurie Simmonds, John Poor, and Joe Poynton. Of note is the Simmonds family’s legacy, as Laurie Simmonds’ son Ken featured in the 1970 A Grade premiership team, and, in the present day, a further generation of Simmonds graces Neddies’ junior teams proudly wearing the blue and gold.
The post-war period brought challenges, including World War II’s disruptions and a breakaway group leaving for rugby league in the early 1950s. Despite these setbacks, the Club secured an A Grade premiership in 1957. During this period, the determination and dedication of figures like Joe Poynton, Jim Stitfall, Jim Macauley, and the unwavering support of Charlie Duncan and his wife, Jess, ensured the Club’s survival.
The tide turned in 1963 with the arrival of Peter Bailey, known as the father of the modern Nedlands club. Bailey arrived in Perth for the Commonwealth Games in 1962 and immediately fell in love with the city and the Club. He introduced a “Kiwi connection,” which brought in skilled players and strengthened the Club’s foundation. Over the years, Bailey played various roles, from player to coach to Club President, and mentored leaders such as Steve Takiari, Terry Bradbury, Peter Shaw, and Chris Lowson. Thanks to him, Nedlands became synonymous with premier rugby in Perth.
During this era, the Club welcomed talented players like Dave Brock, Dave Rosewall, John Walker, Tim Lowson, Rob McKenzie, and many more, who contributed significantly on the field. Meanwhile, stalwarts like Rex Julian and Garry Ash fostered a strong club culture, with traditions like the now iconic Thursday night dinners.
The ‘80s and ‘90s heralded another wave of success for Neddies as experienced players flowed into the Club, many due to Perth hosting the America’s Cup yacht races. Rugby fans had the pleasure of watching talents like All Black Paul Koteka, Peter Chadwick, Reg Walters, and Nudge Edwards perform under top-tier coaches Wayne Hill, Viv Booker, and Dave McKnight.
At a time when professionalism was still a dream, Neddies were fielding players who could have easily competed on the world stage today. However, having so many representatives in the WA State touring team placed such financial pressure on the Club that supporting touring levies became a burden. Nevertheless, the enormous contributions of players and administrators alike laid the foundations for Nedlands’ ongoing success.
Neddies Women’s team, steered by Sue Roberts and Freda Black, dominated during this period and remains fondly remembered for its excellence. There are hopes to see the women’s team reignited in the future.
The past 30 years have seen a shift toward developing homegrown talent. Thanks to the Club’s strong junior program and colts teams, many players have come through the ranks to represent the blue and gold. George Forster-Jones, with an incredible 500 appearances, epitomises this culture. Other familiar faces like Michael Botes, Matt Caporn, and Damian Pacecca have left their marks on the Club’s illustrious history with over 200 games each. Meanwhile, the next generation, including Jamie Hawgood and David Bailey, continue this tradition.
Fast forward to the 21st century, and Nedlands continues to be a symbol of excellence. Leaders like Tony and Rod Ball, Wendy Hickman, Lisa Vaughan, and Craig Holdcroft have contributed to the Club’s evolution. The 75th anniversary in 2009 was celebrated with the release of “Neddies – The First Seventy Five Years” by Life Member Mark Drummond, which updated Bob Messenger’s “The Golden Lion”.
Innovations like transitioning to a Board of Management in 2013, coupled with financial oversight from a Board of Trustees guided by Rick Wolozny, have ensured long-term sustainability. On the field, players like Nathan Roberts, Richie Naylor, and Alvin Lau have carried the Club forward, with former Neddies players Michael Ruru, Anaru Rangi, and Jermaine Ainsley all going on to enjoy professional careers with the Western Force and beyond.
Nedlands RUFC doesn’t just aim to preserve its legacy; it actively builds on it. Many of its administrators, including Hans Sauer and Josh Aislabie, have served on the Rugby WA board, while Terry Bradbury and Peter Bailey have earned Life Membership for their contributions.
With a forward-thinking approach underpinned by strong leadership and community spirit, Neddies looks to the future with confidence and determination. From a pioneering rugby team in 1934 to a powerhouse Club today, the Nedlands story is far from finished.
Here’s to the next chapter in this incredible history and to continuing the tradition of blue and gold excellence.
