Nedlands Rugby Club Secures $455,000 Funding for Exciting Upgrades

Nedlands Rugby Club is kicking off a new era with a remarkable funding announcement. The club has secured an impressive $455,000 grant from the Cook Labor Government, marking a significant investment in its facilities.

This refurbishment will not only enhance the club’s offerings for local players but also prepare the grounds for upcoming international excitement in the world of rugby.

Upgrades to Elevate the Club's Potential

The funding grant, announced by Mary Monkhouse, WA Labor Candidate for Nedlands, will revitalise Charles Court Reserve, the home of Nedlands Rugby Club. Key upgrades include:

New Lighting Systems

Better training and match lighting will provide a premium experience for players, whether they’re locals or international teams getting ready for global tournaments.

Turf Upgrades

Both main pitches will have their turf removed and re-laid to meet international rugby standards. This will allow domestic games to be played at a higher quality and solidify the club as a potential training hub for visiting international teams.

Realignment of the Third Field and Cricket Pitch

The third field will be adjusted for better alignment with the clubhouse, improving overall usability and convenience for club members.

These improvements will transform the club into one of the best-resourced rugby facilities in Western Australia.

A Legacy for the Rugby World Cup and Beyond

The timing of these new developments couldn’t be better. With Australia hosting the Rugby World Cup 2027 and aiming for the Women’s Rugby World Cup in 2029, Nedlands Rugby Club is solidifying its place as a key hub for the sport. The upgraded grounds and state-of-the-art facilities will be ideal for hosting HSBC Sevens, Super Rugby interstate teams, and even international squads during their training camps.

This transformation will not only enhance the experience for current members but also attract new athletes and enthusiasts to the club, building what could become a “decade of rugby excellence” in the region.

A Thriving Local Sports Hub

Mary Monkhouse highlighted the importance of this funding in revitalising the club. She stated:

“I’m absolutely thrilled to be able to announce this election commitment of $455,000 to Nedlands Rugby Club. Nedlands Rugby Club is one of the major sports organisations in Nedlands, and this funding will allow the club to reach its full potential for locals and as a training base when international teams arrive on our shores for the 2027 Rugby World Cup.”

A Bright Future Ahead

With these upgrades, Nedlands Rugby Club is paving the way for its local players to train on world-class grounds, while also creating opportunities for the community to connect with the global rugby stage. This investment is not just a win for the club, but also for the City of Nedlands, as it gears itself up to shine in the international spotlight.

Stay tuned for updates as the refurbishment takes shape and starts putting Nedlands Rugby Club on the map as a key player in Australian rugby’s future.

See official media statement.

Nedlands Rugby Club Secures $455,000 Funding for Exciting Upgrades Read More »

Mike Panoho Joins Neddies to head up new Coaching team

We are delighted to announce that Mike Panoho will join Neddies as the new Premier Grade Head Coach and Director of Rugby. He will be assisted by Brett McCormack and S&C Coach Jye Welch and the team at Jump Lift Run, who have come joined as our Strength and Conditioning partners.

Bringing an extensive wealth of experience, Mike joins Nedlands with a proven track record. He holds the highest Coaching Award in English Rugby and has furthered his expertise with a Masters in Professional Coaching.

Throughout his coaching journey, Mike has made significant contributions to Gloucestershire Counties, England Counties, Richmond RFC, RFC Haarlem, Delta Super Cup, and recently served as the Netherlands National team forwards coach.

Mike’s coaching philosophy revolves around inspiring dedication, commitment, fitness, creativity, and fostering a strong team culture. Notably, Mike’s roots in the game extend to his early playing days with Nedlands, where he started as a young kid, playing for The Mighty Nomads at 5th Grade and Colts. Now, with excitement, Mike returns to the club as the Head Coach.

Brett McCormack has also come on board to assist Mike with the Premier Grade Coaching. Brett brings significant experience, having played Professional Rugby, representing New Zealand at u17 and u21 levels, Otago and Southland in the NPC and the Highlanders and Chiefs in Super 12.

As a coach Brett, has experience coaching 1st Division in the UK and a multitude of Otago age representative teams and most recently coaching the Neddies u15’s 7’s team in 2023.

Brett has said, “I am very excited to be part of the Coaching Set at Neddies and to work with Mike Panoho, a very respected Coach will bring great learnings and new ways to the rugby club.”

We are also extremely lucky to have Andy Cole joining us as Head Coach of the Colts and David McKnight as Reserve Grade Coach. Both bringing decades of coaching experience within WA Premier Grade and Perth Gold. Andy will be assisted by Dean Woodham and former Nedlands Premier Grade Captain and 100 gamer, Dylan Loversidge will assist with Reserves.

Nedlands Stalwarts, Rod Ball, Danny Iti and Terry “Max” Smith have formed a super coaching team to lead the 3rd Grade and Luke Powell and Duane Wee will resume as spiritual leaders of the Nomads. We are working hard in the background to confirm our Women’s team coach and will make the announcement once confirmed.

We are all very excited for the season ahead.