With COVID-19 restrictions easing across southeast Queensland, the first round of the various Rugby League Brisbane competitions swing into action this Saturday... much to the delight of players and spectators.
There will be plenty of interest in the Intech Open men’s division 3 competition to see how newcomers Brisbane Veterans will fare against Pine River Bears, in what looks to be a tantalising ‘new versus old’ showdown.
See all the Queensland Rugby League returning leagues at the status of local leagues page.
The Brisbane Veterans Rugby League club was the brainchild of club president Aaron Wallis (pictured above with his family) which was spawned back in 2018.
Last year, the idea of a veteran’s team fully took shape and with the help of people with similar backgrounds, the club founded its first committee. From there, they began formulating plans to register and play in the Rugby League Brisbane competition in 2020.
Having cut his teeth at Waterford Demons in 1999, Wallis was excited by the challenges that lay ahead for the Veterans in 2020.
“I’ve been working hard on the admin side of things for Brisbane Veterans and trying to assemble some passionate committee members for our club,” Wallis said.
“Once our committee was established, we have worked hard to get the club to where it is today attracting lots of ex-serviceman who are excited to pull on the Veterans jersey.”
The passion Wallis has for the Veterans club is not only infectious, he is also passionate about his Australian Army background as well.
“I have transferred to the Army Reserves and now I have been voted in as president as well as a player,” Wallis said.
“We’ve got a shortened season this year, so preparation hasn’t been the best for all clubs, but I believe we are going to be competitive.
“Having played in the old Brisbane Second Division competition previously in the Arthur Sparks Shield, I know just how competitive this competition can be,” Wallis said.
Brisbane Veterans also have plans to establish a women’s side in the future for the many servicewomen eager to play rugby league.
“It’s about both men and women at this club and hopefully we get to see a big turnout in our very first game on the weekend,” Wallis said.
Wallis said the club was always looking for more players to sign up and be part of the team. To be eligible to play for Brisbane Veterans RLFC, players must meet one of the following criteria:
- Be a current or ex-service member of the Australian, New Zealand or United Kingdom Defence Force
- Be a current or ex-service member of Emergency Services
- Be an immediate family member of a current or ex-service member of the defence forces
There will be plenty of action throughout the Rugby League Brisbane competitions, with games happening across five men’s divisions.
Draws are linked below:
Open Men’s Division 1
Open Men’s Division 2 North
Open Men’s Division 2 South
Open Men’s Division 3 North
Open Men’s Division 3 South
