Office Bearers WESTERN AUSTRALIAN RUGBY UNION (INC)
Board Members
Founded 1893. Re-formed 1928.
G M Stooke OAM (Chairman), T J Bradbury, S Fink, A Harvey, D Redpath
Patron in Chief His Excellency Lieutenant General J Sanderson AC Governor of Western Australia
A Hill (ret. May 05), B French (ret. May 05), R Watsford (ret. May 05), G Sampson (ret. May 05), R Henning (ret. May 05)
Patron
R Perry (appt. Jul 05), R Viol (appt. Jul 05)
Dr D Haultain
V Reid (appt. Oct 05), B Stewart (appt. Oct 05)
Vice Patrons
B Cannon (appt. Oct 05), J Welborn (alternate for B Cannon)
The Honourable Justice D K Malcolm AC Chief Justice of Western Australia
Secretary
The Honourable R C Kucera APM MLA
D Round
The Right Honourable Dr P Nattrass Lord Mayor of Perth
Judiciary Board
Life Members
R Todman (Chairman), M Cashman (Deputy Chairman), R Brain, G Sampson, R Roberts, J Hancock, M Hunt
P Bailey, Mrs V Bleakley, T J Bradbury, Dr D Butcher, P Davies-Moore, Rev R Davis, M Day, B French, E Hall, Dr B Hartley, M Harvey, Dr D Haultain, A Hill, M Hunt, Dr A Johnson, J McCullough, G Mickle, B Olney, Dr R Perry, D Redpath, M Siddons, G M Stooke OAM, J Suckling, T Wilkinson, B Reinecke, A Harvey
President A Harvey
Chairman
Australian Rugby Union Delegate G M Stooke OAM
Western Australian Sports Federation Delegate B French
Auditor Ernst & Young
G M Stooke OAM
RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report l 3
Contents
President
3 Office Bearers
The RugbyWA year started with feverish activity as we prepared a submission for selection as the new Australian Rugby Super 14 team. The expectation and excitement boiled over on the 10 December when the rugby throng came together at Rugby Park to hear “The location of the new Super 14 Rugby team will be – Perth, Western Australia”.
5 President 7
Chairman
11
Chief Executive Officer
13
Marketing, Media & Sponsorship
16
Head Coach
19
Academy Coach
20
Argonaut Gold
25
Coaching
29
Community Rugby
32
Rugby Development Report
35
Referee Manager
39
Judiciary Report
41 Affiliated – WAJRU
4 l RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report
43
Affiliated – WARURA
45
Affiliated – WACRU
47
Affiliated – WAWRU
48
Affiliated – WASRU
50
Awards
51
Grade Tables
54
Chief Finance Officer
55
Financial Report
73
Sponsor Acknowledgements
In the company of WA Sports Minister Bob Kucera, Rugby Mums Irma Cooper and Jennifer Hoskins, players and even Brownlow Medallist and champion Eagle Chris Judd, RugbyWA officials celebrated the remarkable day well into the night. The steady flow of congratulations was just reward for so many people who had worked so hard, whilst the Perth public rejoiced in what had been an amazing display of people power. Immediately plans were in place to find on and off field leaders, and by the end of February 2006 we had appointed as Chief Executive, Peter O’Meara, and John Mitchell as the inaugural Coach of the ‘Team’. With these appointments in place the enormity of the task ahead became very evident. We new that we would get only one chance to do things right, so with professional aplomb recruitment started both on and off the field. By the end of July 2005 our staff level had reached some 30 plus, membership of the new team was in excess of 13,000, and at a Burswood lunch for some 800 supporters, media and sponsors it was announced that EMIRATES would be the naming rights sponsor for the WESTERN FORCE. John Mitchell also named 32 players who had committed to the team and indicated that they would be proud to wear the Ocean Blue jersey in our first year An amazing effort which had been whole heartedly endorsed by a sporting public – the ‘Force’ was a sporting icon in Western Australia. With so much happening at the professional level it was impossible for the Community Rugby clubs to ignore the opportunity created by the enthusiasm and consequently worked hard to reap the harvest. We immediately had
increased playing numbers across all levels with a very large influx in juniors and schools. For the first time since 1993, when the development committee started in earnest to set about developing the game, coaches and administrators were able to offer an 8 year old the total pathway to a Wallaby jersey. Thank you to the considerable number of volunteers, players, coaches and sponsors who contribute so much to club life and to make our game what it is. The Argonaut Perth Gold continued to prove that Western Australia is the strongest rugby state outside of the big two by winning the Telstra Australian Rugby Shield. Our thanks and congratulations the management team Wayne McCulloch (Manager) Des Thornton (Coach) who again brought great credit to themselves, their team and the state. Captained by Scott Batters the amateur players that made up this team should be congratulated for their tireless efforts to achieve this much coveted crown. In the local competition Wests Subiaco, who had waited 26 years to win a Premier Grade premiership, made it three in row. This year proved to be the toughest and closest contest in many years with several clubs being in the position to win. Finals weekend was a wonderful display of the talent available in this state, starting with finals in all junior grades on Saturday morning and concluding with the major final on Sunday afternoon. Special thanks to our loyal and long term Competition Sponsors Home Building Society who, along with Swan Brewery, Department of Sport and Recreation, Esplanade Hotel and Healthway, make a very significant contribution to our sport. You are urged to support where possible these sponsors and others mentioned elsewhere in this report. To our staff, under the astute guidance of RugbyWA Chief Executive Peter O’Meara, a very special thank you for your exceptional work ethic and total loyalty in what has been a year of many challenges and extremely hard work. Thank you to all players, coaches, referees, administrators and volunteers at all levels for their enthusiasm, hard work and devotion to the game We extend our appreciation to the Australian Rugby Union, Chairman and Board of Directors, Chief Executive Gary Flowers and employees for their continued financial and managerial support and also in other areas of the game in particular development and in bringing International rugby to Perth.
RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report l 5
Chairman The 2005 season has been the most eventful year in the history of rugby in Western Australia.
ten person Board. This Board consists of five members
After announcing in December 2004 that Perth was the location of the fourth Australian Super 14 team, 2005 saw the total ‘landscape’ of rugby in the
The significant changes in RugbyWA have necessitated
state change. Highlights of the year included:
elected by the RugbyWA Council, four appointed by the five elected members and one nominated by professional players.
the development of a new strategic plan for the organisation. The process for the development of this plan was commenced in the middle of the year and will be submitted to the Council for approval in early 2006. There has been wide consultation with all stakeholders and a number of workshops and/or information sessions involving the Board, Management, Clubs and Affiliate Bodies. The plan will provide a basis for the integration
• The appointment of a Chief Executive Officer, Peter O’Meara, and a Head Coach, John Mitchell. Also the increase in the number of permanent RugbyWA staff from seven to more than 50 which included new appointments to most of the senior management positions. • The naming of the Super 14 Team as the Western Force and the announcement of Emirates as the major sponsor. • The release of the playing and training colours for the Emirates Western Force Super 14 Team.
We have closed previous seasons with so many expectations – the World Cup, W and associated Perth games, the growth in numbers resultant on the world cup and the promise of Super 14 in Perth. We left no stone unturned in our quest to have a Super 14 team based in Perth to ensure future rugby growth in Australia. As we close 2005 I can say that we will leave no stone unturned in ensuing that rugby in this state, whether it be under 8s or the Emirates Western Force, will
6 l RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report
have every possible opportunity to perform at the ultimate level. Thank you for your past support. I eagerly look forward to seeing you at Subiaco and back at your club for what promises to be a very special season in 2006 Tony Harvey President
and ongoing operations and development of professional and community rugby in Western Australia. It also defines the roles and functions of the service departments to support those two areas. Barrington Consulting is assisting RugbyWA with this process. Following an extensive recruitment campaign in the first part of the year the Emirates Western Force squad commenced full time training in October 2005, with the touring Wallaby players joining the squad in December 2005. All players have relocated to Perth and are now identified amongst the sporting elite of Western Australia.
• Recruitment of 33 contracted players and seven adult apprentices. This included the recruitment of the new Emirates Western Force captain Nathan Sharpe and fellow Wallabies Brendan Cannon, Scott Fava, Matt Henjak David Fitter, Lachlan Mackay and veteran home grown Wallaby John Welborn.
The development of the squad has been encouraging
• The securing of over 20,000 members for the Emirates Western Force and the sale of all hospitality suites and boxes at Subiaco Oval for season 2006.
won their third consecutive Premier Grade Premiership.
and we look forward to the team being competitive in its inaugural year. The Perth competition was the most competitive for many years and congratulations must go to Wests Subiaco who Premiership winners were as follows: Grade
Major Premier
Minor Premier
• The securing of over $4 million in corporate sponsorship for RugbyWA for 2006.
Premier
Wests Subiaco
Cottesloe
• The Argonaut Gold winning the 2005 Australian Rugby Shield Competition.
Reserves
Associates
Cottesloe
A Grade
Rockingham
Rockingham
B Grade
Associates Green
Associates Green
Under 19’s
Associates Gold
Rockingham
Women’s
Cottesloe
Cottesloe
• Strong growth in community rugby participation levels and in particular a 30% growth in the number of junior players. • The establishment of the RugbyWA Rugby Academy. • RugbyWA continues to be in a very sound financial position. In 2005 significant changes were made to the RugbyWA Constitution. These included the establishment of a
Congratulations to Matt Aitken from the Cottesloe RUFC on winning the PG Hampshire Award for the Best and Fairest Player in the Perth competition. This is the second occasion which Matt has won the award. All award winners are as follows:
RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report l 7
During the year the Board established three standing committees, these are:
Award
Winner
PG Hampshire Award
Matt Aitken – Cottesloe
Agronaut Gold Best Player
Ryan Lenegan – University
Sue Roberts Trophy Women’s Competition
• Audit & Compliance Committee Debby Hodgkinson – Cottesloe
Fairest & Best George Newsted Trophy Most Outstanding Colt Tristan Winnall – Associates Laurie de la Hunty Trophy Most Improved Player
Michael Patching – University
RugbyWA Coach Award
Des Thornton
RugbyWA Referee Award
Geoff Patching
Most Improved Colts Team
Rockingham
Top Try Scorer
Dave Dunstan – Associates
Home Building Society Club
Associates
Champions Healthway Champion Club
• Governance, Nomination & Remuneration Committee • Community Rugby Advisory Committee All committees were active during the year and in particular the Community Rugby Advisory Committee. This Committee worked closely with the Manager of Community Rugby in identifying and addressing issues related to community rugby. They also assisted in improving communications between clubs, affiliate bodies and RugbyWA. In 2005, RugbyWA retained its strong core of community rugby sponsors. Their support is greatly appreciated and these sponsors include: • Department of Sport & Recreation
Associates
rugby will be participating in a restructured Perth competition. This competition will also see contracted players playing for various clubs from time to time. The Argonaut Gold will be looking to defend their Australian Rugby Shield title and on the 24 June 2006 the Wallabies will be playing Ireland at Subiaco Oval.
In 2005, RugbyWA retained its strong core of community rugby sponsors. Their support is greatly appreciated...
Council and the RugbyWA Board for the support and assistance they have given to enable the necessary changes and initiatives to be implemented. Thank you to Peter O’Meara and his management team and staff for the significant personal and collective contributions they have made throughout the year. Last but not least, thank you to the players and team management of the Western Force, whose efforts have enabled rugby in WA to now compete on the international stage Kind regards Geoffrey Stooke OAM Chairman
In conclusion, let me thank all those who have contributed to making 2005 such a successful year for RugbyWA. Thank you to the Clubs and Affiliate Bodies for their tireless efforts and support. Thank you to the RugbyWA
• Home Building Society Congratulations also to Steve Fink who is to be awarded Life Membership of RugbyWA. Steve is a long term servant of the game in the state and is currently a member of the Board. He was President of the Junior Rugby Union for many years and is a past President of the Perth Bayswater RUFC. He has played grade rugby for the Cottesloe and Perth Bayswater clubs. Between November 2004 and December 2005 the RugbyWA Board (Executive Committee) met on fifteen (15) occasions. Attendance at these meetings was as follows:
• Argonaut Ltd • Healthway, promoting SportSafe • Esplanade Hotel • Burley Sekem • Lynford • Gray-Nicolls (Gilbert) In addition, significant sponsorship has been secured for 2006 and beyond, as part of RugbyWA’s involvement in Super14. Fortunately, a number of these sponsors commenced their sponsorship with RugbyWA in 2005. These include:
Eligible
Attended
Geoff Stooke
15
15
Tony Harvey
15
10
Terry Bradbury
15
15
David Redpath
15
11
Steve Fink
15
10
Russel Perry
6
6
Rob Viol
6
4
Vern Reid
3
3
Brent Stewart
3
2
• Lion Nathan
Brendan Cannon
0
0
• Goundrey Wines
John Welborn (Alternate)
3
3
• Oceanus
Arthur Hill
7
6
Again, this support is greatly appreciated
Brian French
7
5
Rick Watsford
7
1
Gary Sampson
7
5
Richard Henning
7
5
8 l RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report
• Emirates • ISC • Firepower • MBF • Woodside • Integrated Group
Whilst 2005 saw many changes in RugbyWA, 2006 will be an even more challenging and exciting year. Emirates Western Force will be competing in the Tooheys New Super 14 Competition for the first time and community
RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report l 9
Chief Executive Officer What a year 2005 was for RugbyWA! The organisation has achieved well above expectation in all aspects, and we have set new off field standards for clubs within Australia. The West Australian public has embraced the Emirates Western Force in an already brimming sporting scene in this state, and I would like to thank them for this terrific support. The bid for the new Tooheys New Super 14 team, won in December 2004, was lead by the public thirst to see top level rugby in WA (with the strong backing of the State Government). The people of this state have followed through, with 21,000 signed up members and almost 40,000 attending our debut match in the Tooheys New Super 14.
the Gold in 2006 as they aim for a third ARS victory in the last four years. In the Home Building Society Premier Grade competition, Wests-Subiaco won a third straight premiership under coach Tom Fearn, beating minor premiers Cottesloe in the Grand Final. Tom is now part of the Emirates Western Force staff, joining the four man coaching staff as Skills coach. Tom’s appointment reflects the success he has had in the Perth competition and the quality of local rugby standards. WA was also well represented at underage levels, with our U19s, Schoolboys and U16s showing tremendous promise. Our U19s went undefeated through the Transition Tournament in Queensland, while the Schoolboys drew with Victoria in the final of the National Division II Championships. The U16s struggled a little at the National Division I Tournament, but worked hard and will a powerful unit in the future.
RugbyWA
Emirates Western Force
Since my arrival at RugbyWA in March, the organisation has blossomed from a small but excited group of dedicated individuals to a finely tuned professional outfit ready to face the demands of a Super 14 rugby season. After all the long hours and hard work in preparation, RugbyWA staff is more excited now than twelve months ago, which says a great deal about the passion for rugby and commitment to the cause this group has.
In April 2005, after much consultation, we announced that the new professional team would be known by the name ‘Western Force’. The logo that was chosen, the native Black Swan, has been the symbol of WA for more than a century. It encapsulates the energy and vibrancy of the iconic WA forces of the sun and the ocean.
Obviously, things have changed a great deal in the past twelve months. With the support of the RugbyWA Board, led by Chairman Geoff Stooke and President Tony Harvey, we have created a structure that we believe will provide the best possible service to rugby in the state. I would like to thank Geoff, Tony and the entirety of the Board for their help, both to me personally as I commenced my duties, and to RugbyWA in this phase of massive growth. I would like to thank my predecessor as CEO of RugbyWA, Rick Smith, for his fine contributions to rugby in this state and being a leading player in the bidding process. We are pleased to have Rick’s ongoing involvement in the organisation, now in the role of Manager of Strategic Projects. There was also plenty of action ON the field in 2005, and early 2006. Our representatives in the Australian Rugby Shield (ARS) competition, Argonaut Gold, were crowned champions after defeating Queensland Country in the Final at Rugby Park. Congratulations to coach Des Thornton, players and support staff. Des will again lead
The brand launch was followed by the launch of our home and alternate jersey, and Emirates as our naming rights sponsor, on 5 July. Over 800 people attended the launch in the Grand Ballroom at Burswood, during which we got our first look at 13 of the players who came across to be models in the parade. We also auctioned off our two original jerseys, for an amazing $30,000 each. The announcement of Emirates as our naming rights sponsor was a terrific result for us. Emirates have a proven track record of excellence, and I believe that we share key values that will work well for us in the future. We also announced Firepower, MBF, ISC, Tooheys New, Woodside, Karma Resorts, Integrated Group and Thrifty as major sponsors, which we are very proud of. I would like to thank each of these for their support of rugby, and we look forward to working together with you in the future. In the initial bid submission, we had forecast 4,400 rugby fans would become members of the new professional side. When memberships closed in January 2006, we had around 21,000 paid up members and 270 companies partaking in corporate hospitality. This is an astounding achievement by WA rugby fans, and a great result for our hard working marketing and membership team.
RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report l 11
Marketing, Media & Sponsorship Congratulations to both – the Emirates Western Force is now the most well supported rugby club in Australia. One of the duties faced by Emirates Western Force Head Coach John Mitchell and I was to assemble a squad of players that would fill the criteria of growing the quality and quantity of elite players in Australian rugby. We recruited with the plan of giving more opportunities and playing time to Australian players with great potential around a core of experienced players with leadership credentials and potential, and we did not deviate from that. The fact that 21 players in our 40 man senior squad had no previous experience at Super 12 level prior to 2006 is testament to that. These players are in the enviable position of being able to form the culture of the club as inaugural members. I believe these players are of the right character and possess the mental and physical capacities to fulfill this incredible opportunity. The coaching staff of the Emirates Western Force must be commended for their terrific work in 2005. By the start of 2006, John Mitchell and his team of assistants turned a 40 man squad into a team with shared focus and vision. John has worked diligently in mapping a path of preparation for the teams’ pre-season training schedule right through until the completion of the Super 14 season. His presence within the organisation and insistence on one-ness throughout the staff – both on-field and off-field – has been important in developing a positive atmosphere.
Marketing It has been a challenging and exciting year for the Marketing Services team. The year commenced with the development of a new brand for the team. Under a cloud of tight security, the ‘Western Force’ and iconic black swan logo were launched and quickly embraced by the Western Australian community. A re-branding program for RugbyWA followed with the creation of guidelines and implementation process. The branding program then stretched to the involvement in the ‘look and feel’ of the player’s attire and full merchandise range. The formulation of the Jersey was next on the agenda. The project cumulated with the successful launch attended by the who’s who of the WA business and media community, during which a staggering $60,000 was raised by the auction of the two inaugural jerseys. The crucial financial project for the division was the creation of membership and corporate hospitality packages, which has resulted in over $10m in revenue. The hurdles of the project were numerous, with newly hired staff seated at tables from the 60’s; intensive scrutiny from the expectant public; and establishing a brand new membership system from the United States on a dial-up internet connection! The launch of the packages saw over 10,000 members signing up within three days, with even a Federal Minister lining up in the
Monday morning queue. A core team now services over 21,000 clients (inclusive of both personal and corporate members). Membership events have been fast and furious in development and held in quick succession. Due to the overwhelming support of membership, the ticketing strategy was carefully planned to attract the fringe supporters’ and non core rugby supporters in an AFL heartland. Marketing activities have been numerous with key deliverables the advertising program and promotions calendar. It was vital to differentiate from other sports creating of point of difference in the market place. On game day the team is there to oversee and support potentially 20,000 members with 2,700 corporates dining in Suites, Boxes, Premium Dining and Black Swan Bar (this particular form of corporate hospitality is new to WA and becoming the place to be seen). Finally, what has been achieved is due to the fantastic marketing services team, who against all odds, have continually delivered and worked countless hours and weekends – to them my sincere thanks and admiration. Nicola Davies Manager, Marketing Services
Looking Forward Now that the Emirates Western Force have commenced playing in the Super 14, RugbyWA will be looking to build on the momentum of 2005 and consolidate our position within the WA sporting and business communities. We are currently finalising our strategic plan for the next three years, with the aim of improving what are already high standards of excellence across the organisation. Irrespective of where we finish on the Super 14 table this year, we have already achieved an enormous amount. Finally, I’d like to thank the rugby community of WA, from our esteemed life members to game day fans and right through to club volunteers. We are grateful for the groundswell of support for rugby, and we will look to continue to nurture the game at all levels. I’d like to wish a safe and successful 2006 to all, and I hope to see you at Subiaco, Rugby Park or your local club soon. Peter O’Meara Chief Executive Officer
12 l RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report
RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report l 13
Media Our brief has been to maximize awareness and support for RugbyWA and the Emirates Western Force and to keep management and players informed of relevant issues. If only it were that simple! It’s been an amazing year of challenges and change in the area of media and communications as RugbyWA has gone from essentially a low-key manager of community rugby to a $20 million business. Each twist and turn has not been without its issues, typical, I suspect, of any start-up. Joining an international competition like the Tooheys New Super 14 has put us on the rugby radar around the world and led to countless and constant requests and inquiries from as far a field as Europe and Japan, not to mention New Zealand and South Africa. But managing this interest has been just a small part of our busy schedule over the past year. From next to nothing, we’ve built a website that now enjoys more hits than the Fremantle Dockers. We’ve developed policies and systems and supplied a steady stream of copy for speeches, press releases and match day programs. We’ve written a book and managed a television
documentary, run a song competition and helped fill the electronic ether and print presses with news of our great game. We’ve struck publishing and radio deals, written radio scripts and delivered regular electronic newsletters to our members, corporate supporters and local clubs. And then there’s game day! I would like to thank the journalists, players and coaches for giving the time to spread the good word. Certainly, the profile rugby now has in WA could not have been achieved without their involvement. I would also like to thank our partners, Cambridge Media, Southern Cross Broadcasting and Getty Images. Tim Archer, at the ARU, has also been a great sounding board and adviser. Finally, I would like to thank RugbyWA media officer, Crispin Roberts, for his good humour, good sense and commitment to the cause. It’s been a busy year of sowing the seed. Now for the fruits of our labour! Tom Baddeley Manager, Media and Communications
Sponsorship The sponsorship unit, as with other units associated with RugbyWA and the Emirates Western Force, faced a number of specific challenges following the announcement of successful bid on December 10 2005. A strategy was developed which involved analysing an achievable sponsorship budget for RugbyWA, and developing a range of benefits which would be appropriate for the sponsorship structure which had been designed. Targeted companies were approached and we were gratified with their positive response. The Emirates Western Force sponsorship group now represents a total investment by these organisations of over $4.6 million in 2006. A number of our major sponsors are new investors into the Western Australian sporting landscape. We are intent on ensuring that our sponsors have the opportunity to cross market to each other, and to our corporate hospitality members. We will continue to structure opportunities for this to occur.
14 l RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report
We are working to maximise the impact sponsors will have on our match day spectators, our membership base, our corporate members and the general community. We are grateful for the support our sponsors have provided to us in our initial year. Their enthusiastic and professional contribution has had a profound impact on the effectiveness of our organisation.
We are grateful for the support our sponsors have provided to us in our initial year. Our objective has been in this first year to do the achievable well, and not to stretch ourselves too thinly. Our challenge is to move into 2007 with more ambitious goals and higher aspirations. Mike Rees Manager, Sponsorship and Commercial Operations
RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report l 15
Head Coach First of all, let me say what a privilege it is to be the inaugural Head Coach of the Emirates Western Force. Even though I have had previous coaching experiences with Waikato, England and as coach of New Zealand at the 2003 Rugby World Cup, I regard this as the most challenging appointment of my career. To be handed a blank canvas; a brand new club, the ability to be heavily influential in player and professional staff recruitment and to create a unique culture is a fantastic opportunity.
Together with RugbyWA Chairman Geoff Stooke and Chief
However, as they say in the classics, with great power comes great responsibility.
for a man still in his salad days as a coach. Ben has
Executive Peter O’Meara, the Emirates Western Force have been able to recruit top class coaching staff and management, as well as a player group that I believe will uphold the characteristics of this organization – Integrity, Unity, Courage, Excellence and Energy. We are fortunate enough to have filled our coaching stocks with outstanding individuals. The appointments of coaching coordinator John Mulvihill and set-piece coach, former Wallaby Ben Darwin, are very pleasing. John is an astute rugby mind; he is well prepared and provides a fresh approach, having worked with the Gold Coast Breakers and The Southport School before heading to WA. Ben has excellent technical and tactical knowledge formerly had playing experience with the Wallabies, and
was coach of Northern Suburbs in the NSW Premiership competition. The player group that the Emirates Western Force have been able to recruit is top class. The group is varied in age and experience, but single-minded in its approach.
We are fortunate enough to have filled our coaching stocks with outstanding individuals. Our captain, Nathan Sharpe, is a born leader of men and has impressed with his enthusiasm and willingness to work hard. This sets a fantastic example for the younger guys. Scott Fava has an excellent track record on the field, but his appointment as vice-captain probably reflects more on him as a person than a player, which is saying something. Within the Emirates Western Force structure, Academy coach Steve MacFarland has taken his role in stride and has made a big improvement in the standards of his guys in a matter of months. Steve will be working hard with young men of the academy, along with our Coach Education manager and NTS/Academy coach Brenden Loag, in developing the future of rugby in WA. We believe that we will be a competitive side with a bright future, and it is exciting that the WA public has been so supportive in getting on board and becoming members. The staff and players will be focused on rewarding this support with good performances, quality rugby to watch, and hopefully some wins on the board. We are also well aware of the quality of our opposition and I acknowledge that just as Rome wasn’t built in a day, neither is a rugby club. We have a three-year plan in place to develop our team, and we will stick to that regardless of results. Finally, I’d like to thank RugbyWA Chairman Geoff Stooke and Board, chief executive Peter O’Meara, the entire staff of this organisation and particularly my coaching staff and playing group for their support and guidance since my arrival in this state twelve months ago. John Mitchell Head Coach
16 l RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report
RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report l 17
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Academy Coach Emirates Western Force Academy The inaugural Emirates Western Force Academy kicked off its program on November 1, 2005. After a selection process of the players over the domestic season, 20 players were eventually selected, with 18 of the players from Perth and 2 coming from interstate. The players selected have come through the local competitions and representative teams from the U16s, Schoolboys, U19s and Perth Gold. Ex-Perth players have also returned from interstate to continue their studies and rugby in the West. With the appointment of the coach at the end of October, the critical objective was to get the program running, in particular the coaching. Once this occurred the Academy players began training in earnest. The main focus during the early phase has been on skill development in the three core skill areas, as well as a vigorous strength and conditioning program. After an intense opening three weeks of skills, we now have 3 skills sessions a week. The skill progression is well underway. We will continue to work closely with the Super 14 squad in terms of input as well as a common theme in the core areas. Individual skills are also built into the program. During pre-season, two Academy players were invited each week to train with the senior squad, and once a week members of the Professional coaching team spent a skills session with the Academy. This has been most beneficial and gives the coaching staff and players alike the opportunity to assess their progress at an elite level. The
seven sessions per week not involving skills are taken up with strength, speed work and conditioning. Strength and Conditioning coach Vince Kelly has tested all the players in conjunction with WAIS and they are now following specialized training programs in these areas. The players have also had sessions with nutritionist Glenn Cardwell. The age of the cohort varies from 17- 23. It is envisaged down the track, the general age will be younger. In reality some of the older players in the squad in effect have a small window in which to attempt to make the step up. The structures have been put in place for future entry and exit procedures. This structure will be made available in due course. Players are set goals and are expected to meet the standards in all areas if they are to remain and continue in the program. They are tested on a regular basis and are given feedback as to their progress. Sessions are filmed and the footage will be used as an effective coaching tool.
Inaugural Academy Members Dan Bailey
Kris Martinick
Will Brock
Nathan McCourt
Tim Carslaw
Angus Neilson
Joe Egan
Scott Nimmo
James Dougall
Adam Scari
Lloyd Johnson
Matt Shaw
Bill Johnstone
Andrew Smith
Ryan Lenegan
Dean Tyrrell
Ben Lindegaard
Ryan Tyrrell
Kieran Longbottom
Tristan Winnall
Steve McFarland Head Academy Coach
Firepower are proud to be an Official Partner of the Emirates Western Force
www.firepowergroup.com RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report l 19
Argonaut Gold
Argonaut Gold enjoyed yet another terrific Australian Shield result in 2005, winning the competition for the second time in three years. Coach Des Thornton, assistants Andy Cole and Steve McFarland, and Manager Wayne McCullough are to be commended for their hard work and tremendous achievement.
Match Reports by Rick Boyd
The majority of the squad was made up of youngsters from the Premier Grade, although warhorse Trefor Thomas was again in the thick of the action. The squad, captained by halfback Scott Batters, battled injuries at times but still went through the season undefeated – testament to the attitude the guys brought to gameday. This commitment and courage was exemplified in the final, when the guys fought back from a half-time deficit to claim the shield.
half comeback that gave it a hard-fought 18-11 win over a
2005 Argonaut Gold Squad:
to blow a certain try after 8 minutes, lock Luke Classie
Peter Adams, Daniel Bailey, Scott Batters, Tim Davies, Kyle Edwards, Tyler Edwards, Leon Felton, Dwayne Grace, Ross James, Ryan Lenegan, Sililo Sagote, Kieran Longbotlom, Nathan McCort, Greig McKenzie, Rerekura (John) Menehira, Blair Morris, Bryce Mowill, Ashley Murphy, Tim Newton, Christopher Rovira, Mike Rowe, Matt Shaw, Trefor Thomas, Brendan Thomson, Ross Trend, Ryan Tyrell, Justin Webster, James Weir, Damian Wilson
cutting back in with a three man overlap. But a quick ruck
Mitch Hardy Manager, Community Rugby
stood up the fullback to score out wide. Wing Ryan
20 l RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report
Telstra Australian Rugby Shield Final – Argonaut Gold v Queensland Country Heelers Perth’s Argonaut Gold reclaimed the Telstra Australian Rugby Shield today at Rugby Park, Floreat, with a second solid Queensland Country Heelers team. The Heelers gained territorial advantage from the early kicking duel and flyhalf Ryan Roberts converted position into points with a drop goal from a handy scrum after 4 minutes. The Heelers continued to dominate territory and appeared
spun the ball blind and Roberts scampered over in the corner to give the Heelers an 8-0 half time lead. Gold opened the second half with promise but errors put the Heelers back on attack, Roberts kicking a penalty after 8 minutes when a Gold flanker unbound early. Gold worked downfield from the kickoff and flyhalf Nathan McCort cut in close through an ineffective tackle, and Lenegan converted from the sideline to make it 11-7.
Gold restarted play full of fire and hammered the Heelers’
The hard-fought win stands favourites Gold in good stead
line, winning a penalty for offside after 13 minutes. Lenegan
for the final to be played at Rugby Park, Floreat, on
converted from in front, and the Gold closed to 11-10.
Saturday June 18.
Gold were unlucky not to score from a ruck with an
The score was locked at 0-0 at half time as the Axemen
overlap waiting, but the Heelers knocked the ball down
dominated territory, playing a physical game that shocked
and conceded the penalty. Lenegan kicked the sitter and
Gold in the early stages. Melbourne took advantage of
Gold was straight back on attack with Lenegan kicking
the cold night conditions, using their size and weight
and regathering down the sideline. The ball swept the
to slow down play and take the visitors on one-on-one.
width of the field and fullback Dwayne Grace cut through
They applied pressure and Gold occasionally lacked
to score out wide and give Gold the lead 18-11.
composure.
Argonaut Gold reclaimed the title of the best amateur
Standout players were prop Kieran Longbottom, who
team in Australia in a fitting reinforcement of the ARU’s
performed strongly in the scrum and around the ground;
decision to award Western Australia the nation’s fourth
halfback Brendan Thomson, who displayed great intensity;
Super 14 side, the Emirates Western Force.
fullback Ryan Lenegan, whose positional kicking was excellent; and wing Justin Webster. Inside centre Tim
Argonaut Gold v Melbourne Axemen
Davies was again exceptional under pressure.
Perth’s Argonaut Gold did it tough in a hard, physical game against a big Melbourne Axemen team, winning 17-
Argonaut Gold v New South Wales Country Cockatoos
5 in the Telstra Australian Rugby Shield game in Victoria
Perth’s Argonaut Gold earned a home final in the Telstra
tonight.
Australian Rugby Shield Final with a resounding 27-12 win
over arch-rival the New South Wales Cockatoos in Lismore today. Gold ripped into the Cockatoos early, scoring four tries in the first 17 minutes, earning a valuable bonus point.
Perth’s Argonaut Gold won its second consecutive Telstra Australian Rugby Shield game, 38-23 against the Adelaide Black Falcons.
Gold led 22-0 at half time and scored a further converted try in the second half. The Cockatoos left its run too late with two tries and a conversion in the second half but Gold had the game wrapped up.
The young Argonaut Gold team scored two converted tries
Lock Tyler Edwards scored after 3 minutes and flanker Blair Morris added a second try six minutes in.
The Black Falcons played with a gale behind it in the
Inside centre Tim Davies went over for a try after 14 minutes, converted by wing Greig McKenzie and 3 minutes later wing Justin Webster scored the fourth. Centre Bryce Mowll added the fifth try 17 minutes into the second spell. Argonaut Gold v Darwin Mozzies Perth’s Argonaut Gold defeated the Darwin Mosquitos 4310 at Rugby Park, Floreat. Gold led 17-3 at half time with periods of high quality, precision rugby. Darwin worked hard to gain territorial dominance in the second half as the game became disjointed, but it was not enough to stop Gold scoring four more tries, often against the run of play. Argonaut Gold opened the game at bewildering speed, switching play from one side of the field to the other until fullback Ryan Lenegan sprinted into the corner on an overlap to score. This was followed soon after by a try to Justin Webster, and the Gold went ahead 10-0 after 16 minutes. Darwin was never out of the hunt and created good opportunities. Fullback Bernard Niki sliced through for an easy touchdown but was called back for a forward pass. Darwin had to settle for a penalty kick to flyhalf Robbie Davis after Gold was called offside a minute later. But Gold had the last word when a penalty lineout sent the ball out wide and strong fullback Ryan Lenegan bumped off three tacklers for a try. Lenegan converted it himself to take Gold ahead 17-3 going into the break. Four second half tries to one gave the Argonaut Gold a seemingly comfortable 43-10 victory, but it was a cruel reward for the Territorians, who had worked tirelessly for position but failed to penetrate
22 l RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report
Argonaut Gold v Adelaide Black Falcons
in the first half for a slender 14-13 lead at the break, but poured on the points in the second half for a strong win in difficult conditions.
first half, using the advantage well to keep Argonaut Gold pinned in its half, and Gold found it difficult to build momentum. But ten minutes after the break Gold broke the shackles and the points inevitably followed. Tries were scored by flanker Blair Morris (2), centre Leon Felton (2), and blindside flanker Ryan Tyrrell. Wing Ryan Lenegan scored one try and kicked three conversions, and wing Justin Webster kicked one conversion. The Black Falcons rounded out the game with a consolation try. Argonaut Gold v Queensland Country Heelers Perth’s young Argonaut Gold team overcame the solid Queensland Country Heelers to win 2005’s first Telstra Australian Rugby Shield match, 19-12. Centre Leon Felton cut through to score after four minutes and seven minutes later lock John Menehira was well placed in the back line to drive over for the second. Late selection as team kicker, hooker Ash Murphy, failed with the two conversion attempts but made no mistake with his third attempt, a penalty from a lineout offence, to take Gold out to 13-0 after 22 minutes. But the Heelers struck back five minutes later with an orthodox attack down the left wing. Wing Billy Bainibure collected the try and flyhalf Corey Niwa added the extras to peg Gold back to a 13-7 lead. Murphy slotted a penalty for a shoulder charge after ten minutes, and added another soon after to go ahead 19-7. Minutes later Gold was penalised for coming in the side of a ruck, and the Heelers punted into touch past Gold’s 22. Several phases later the Queensland Country forwards drove over the line and lock and captain Brad Tronc claimed the try to close the gap to 19-12.
RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report l 23
Coaching Introduction
• Optional education – Junior Player Pathway seminars,
The arrival of Super 14 Rugby to Western Australia and the birth of the Emirates Western Force has obviously swept rugby in the state off its feet. This huge groundswell has had a direct influence on the levels of interest and involvement people have taken in rugby coaching. At the same time, the Australian Rugby Union (ARU) and each of the state unions have worked hard on revamping the coach education and development system to provide new opportunities for coaches. These two factors combined have seen an exciting year unfold in the coaching fraternity and set the scene for a busy 2006.
Coaching Accreditation and Education Course/Seminar Advanced Coaches Seminar x 2
No. of Participants 63
Level One x 6
133
Level Two x 2
35
Level Three x 1
2
Foundation
62
Junior Player Pathway
73
A total of 368 participants attended one of RugbyWA’s
Foundation coaching & refereeing, Advanced seminars • Optional membership & accreditation – Level 1, 2 & 3 courses The Foundation coaching and refereeing course has been added to the Coach Development program for 2006. This one day certificate course is designed to educate participants at an introductory level to coaching and refereeing. This course is recognized by the ARU and RugbyWA as the 1st step in qualification, but not an official accreditation through the Australian Sports Commission. The level 1 accreditation will remain in the Coach Development program, however attending a coaching seminar is no longer a requirement to gain a Level 1 Accreditation. Attending a Foundation Course may be beneficial for the coach’s education and knowledge prior to commencing the level 1 accreditation. The level 1 and 2 accreditations are now assessment based courses where certain competencies must be sufficiently met to achieve a pass.
Coaching Success
coach education seminars during the 2005 season. This
2005 saw yet another successful year for our coaches
is an increase of 96% from last year’s 187. This can be
at many various levels. The highlight of the year was the
attributed to an increase in resources, funding and staff
appointment of local coach Tom Fearn to the Emirates
which in turn provided more efficient course promotion
Western Force coaching staff as the Skills Coach. Tom
and the provision of more accessible seminars.
has been coaching in Western Australia for many years with outstanding results including 2 premierships with
During 2005, a further 26 coaches completed the
Nedlands 1st Grade and more recently a hat-trick of
necessary tasks to gain their level 1 accreditations, while
premierships with Wests Subiaco.
another 14 met theirs for level 2.
New Coach Development System Overview The outgoing coach development system was reviewed in detail by both RugbyWA and the Australian Rugby Union. The results showed that the system was inflexible, outdated and in some areas lacked quality control.
24 l RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report
Steve McFarland has enjoyed a stand-out year in the area of coaching. Steve was appointed as the Emirates Western Force Academy Head Coach in November this year. Steve has enjoyed yet another successful year in winning an Undefeated Australian Shield Championship with the Argonaut Gold (assistant coach) and also taking out PSA 1st XV premiership for the third year running with
In response RugbyWA and the ARU developed a new system that not only provided an educational opportunity for coaches at all levels, but also aimed to improve the standards of those who were committed to progressing through an accreditation pathway. The final result was a new system that comprises of three components:
Hale School.
• Compulsory qualification – SmartRugby safety seminars
second of the assistant coaches Andy Cole must also be
Des Thornton received RugbyWA’s highest coaching honour by winning the Coach of the Year award. Des was again the Head Coach of the Argonaut Gold and successfully guided the team to the title in the highest competition available for Western Australians. The congratulated on his efforts. Andy has been Des’ right
RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report l 25
hand man for the last three Australian Shield campaigns having a big hand in both of Perth’s Championships. Developing coaches Willie Van Dyk and Steve McCullough also enjoyed success as Head Coaches of representative teams for the first time. Willie (WA U19s) and Steve (WA U15 Development XV) guided their teams to championships at their respective tournaments while also assisting in the development of future Emirates Western Force players. Congratulations must also go to WA Country coach Greg Hunt who has had a huge influence on the resurrection of this valued representative team’s program. Greg was faced with the challenge of fashioning a team from four different WA regions in very limited time. He was successful in his endeavour with the WA Country team performing exceptionally well in its inaugural match against the Perth A Grade representative team.
Gibson. Rod took the challenge of coaching Sydney Premier Grade side Manly on in 2005 with great results. Rod steered the team to the Toohey’s New Cup SemiFinals. Wayne also stepped up to the Premier Grade ranks for the first time in 2005 when he took the reins at Brisbane’s Brothers Rugby Club. Wayne was also successful in taking his team to the semi-finals. Congratulations to both coaches. Finally RugbyWA would like to welcome John Mitchell, John Mulvihill & Ben Darwin to the WA coaching ranks. Their involvement in coach development in 2005 has been beneficial for many throughout the year. Their leadership will be a huge asset for WA in the future. Brenden Loag Coach Education and NTS/Academy
RugbyWA would also like to recognise the performances of ex-Western Australian coaches Rod Cutler and Wayne
RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report l 27
Community Rugby Overview The 2005 season has been one of excitement; a time of anticipation and change for all involved in Community rugby. After receiving notification of the new Super 14 team, RugbyWA has undergone some dramatic changes. The first of those changes was the moving to the old Department of Sport and Recreation offices at Perry Lakes Athletic Stadium to accommodate the growing number of staff coming on board within the organisation. We have continued seeing the ever increasing growth of the sport at junior, club and school level and the senior competitions, highlighted by some fine individual and club performances. Personally I would like to thank all Club Committee personnel, volunteers, players and our affiliate body representatives from the WARURA, WAJRU, WACRU, WASRU and WAWRU. I have thoroughly enjoyed my first year with the organisation, and look forward to what should be an exciting 2006.
Staff During 2005 RugbyWA and Community Rugby has seen many personnel changes. I believe the difference in having these extra resources will only enhance Community Rugby and assist in delivering the programs to boost the sport within the state. As part of the Rugby World Cup legacy funding we received, RugbyWA employed three Rugby Service Coordinators in Danny Lea, Daniel Cockburn and Tim Davies, as well as two Regional Development Officers in Daryn Pomare and Callan Hatchman. Other New staff to the organisation included Glenda Gibbs (Competition Administrator), Dwayne Nestor (Development Manager), Omar Haji (junior Rugby Coordinator), and our Metropolitan Development officers in Pat Hannigan, Aidan Higo, Colin Richardson and Leon Felton. I am sure you will join me in thanking these staff members for their contribution to date as well as our other staff members for their continuing good work (Wendy Hickman, Anthony O’Shea, Helen Sutherland and Brendan Loag). I would also like to take the opportunity to thank Stuart Dart for his contribution to Community Rugby and the guidance he has provided me in my role and making the new staff feel most welcome to the organisation.
Management for their success in the Australian Rugby Shield. Thanks and recognition must also go to our Community Sponsors who may be recognised elsewhere within this annual report but to Home Building Society our Competitions Major Sponsor all of Community Rugby appreciates your continued support. Our continuing programs with all age group state teams will play an important role for Rugby within this state, and we are pleased to see the Perth Gold side continuing in the ARS in 2006. We had success with the Under 19 Development side, and this will be a further breeding ground for future Emirates Western Force players, along with our state under 16 and Schoolboy sides. Congratulations to the Associates RUFC for their successes in the Club Championship, Healthway Championship, Under 19 and B grade competitions. Also congratulations to the Wests Subiaco RUFC on their Premier Grade success for a third consecutive season. The Home Building Society competition saw it come down to five clubs vying for Semi Final positions in 2005, with University missing out despite a big competition ladder lead at the halfway stage of the competition. Cottesloe came through the pack to take the Minor Premiership . With the introduction of the Emirates Western Force Academy and Super 14 Professional players our competition will hopefully raise in standard and number of competing teams in years to come.
Rugby Thank you for all contributions made to all the competitions run by RugbyWA in 2005. Congratulations to the Argonaut Perth Gold coaching, players and
28 l RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report
Wests Subiaco Captain Greg Plimmer accepts the Premier Grade Cup from Home Building Society Chairman Tony Howarth.
RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report l 29
Going Forward in 2006 During 2005 the RugbyWA Board formed a Community Rugby Advisory Committee comprising of Directors, Tony Harvey, David Redpath, Steve Fink and Vern Reid and the Manager for Community Rugby. This role of the committee has been to provide strategic direction to Community Rugby to cater for the wants and needs of Community Rugby. Meetings were held with all Clubs and Affiliate Bodies about such things as competition matters, match officials, development programs, volunteer management, coach education and financial support. This Committee will remain in 2006 and continue its work with the key stakeholders of RugbyWA Community Rugby. Early in 2006, the senior and junior competitions will go through some changes which have been formed by the Advisory Committee and the relevant affiliate bodies. Along with the programs that have been successful to date, such as volunteer management and development programs, the work the Rugby Service Coordinators are carrying out the clubs can be assured to receive the necessary support and resources needed to carry out their duties. The Volunteer Management Program has been one of the RugbyWA success stories, and I am sure the clubs will
Goundry
30 l RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report
join me in thanking Helen Sutherland for the work she has done in this area. Through the VMP, Helen, along with the Volunteer Coordinators from the clubs, has provided much needed workshops, resources, job descriptions and guidance on matters such as grants, recruiting and retaining Volunteers. RugbyWA is looking at ways to make this program one of the leading volunteer programs for Rugby in the country. A number of development initiatives were commenced in 2005 by Dwayne Nestor and his team of Development officers, and these staff members are currently putting together a comprehensive development program for 2006. I urge all clubs to use these staff members to assist with their plans for their junior and senior players. Opportunities will also be created for Coaches and officials with such quality personnel as John Mitchell and his staff now on board and Brendan Loag and Anthony O’Shea will be working on ways to improve the quality of match officials and coaches within the state. Mitch Hardy Manager, Community Rugby
Rugby Development Report As part of the sampling programs, active links were set
with the U15 Trophy, the Spirit of Rugby trophy and the
up between local clubs and the schools where relevant.
Canterbury trophy voted on by the referee’s.
As a result of the sampling programs, the Primary Rugby
The 2005 clinics have enabled the new Development
Program was developed and launched in Term 4, 2005.
staff the opportunity to formulate a plan for State
It was trialed in the Central North West region of Perth
Championships for both U14 and U15 levels in 2006.
with four schools participating at the Year 4 and 5 levels.
In conjunction with the WAJRU, we plan on building the
The culmination of the program was a Gala Day with 12
prestige of these respective championships, which will
teams participating, totaling 120 students. Six Emirates
compliment the rugby pathway in to the Academy and
Western Force players attended the day joining in the
Emirates Western Force.
games. The Primary Rugby Program is scheduled to cover 10
TryRugby Programs
regions of Perth in 2006 allowing over 300 schools the
TryRugby is a community based program involving children
opportunity to participate.
from 6 to 16 years of age. It aims to introduce the game
In the South West, Bunbury hosted a Primary Gala Day in November with in excess of 170 students from five
RugbyWA’s Community Rugby received a huge boost in March of 2005 with the employment of Aidan Higo, Colin Richardson and Patrick Hannigan as full time SportSafe Development Officers, and Leon Felton as a part time SportSafe Development Officer within the Perth metropolitan area. Along with these appointments, I came on board as the SportSafe Development Coordinator, employed to manage the implementation of the development program at the grass roots level.
This accounted for approximately 1,300 players. The Development Officers were active in assisting the CSC schools with training sessions and technical advice. To assist with recruitment of new schools and development opportunities for existing schools RugbyWA will host a pre-season CSC tournament in April 2006 for the Year 10’s and Open’s and another for the Year 8’s and Year 9’s in early July 2006.
In June and July RugbyWA added to the development staff, with Daryn Pomare and Callan Hatchman appointed Regional Development Officer and South West Development Officer respectively. The Regional areas include Eastern Goldfields, Great Southern, and Geraldton. The South West covers Bunbury, Busselton, Dunsborough, Margaret River and to some extent Mandurah. The new Development Officers had a steep learning curve in terms of knowing the game technically and working with schools and the junior clubs. Their improvement was outstanding, and after seven months the positive feedback, from the schools especially, has been glowing in terms of their professionalism, organisation and quality of programs.
Sampling programs were run in:
of rugby to the participants in a fun, safe and familyorientated environment.
primary schools playing Walla Rugby. This Gala Day
There were four TryRugby Programs hosted in the
coincided with an Emirates Western Force player visit to
following areas in 2005:
the area and several of the Force players joined in the games. The PSA Schools competition was once again won by Hale School. The Development Officers were active in assisting the PSA schools with holiday clinics and specific technical sessions during the season. Coaching support from the Development Officers was also focused at the
• Southern Lions (40 participants) • Bunbury (67 participants) • Kalgoorlie (37 participants) • West Subiaco (87 participants) For Kalgoorlie and Bunbury it was the first instance of any
Year 4 and 5 levels in preparation for a Walla Tournament
rugby program like this in the region, and from feedback
between Hale, Trinity and Wesley totaling 12 teams.
from participants it won’t be the last. We are planning follow up programs in 2006 with the aim to set up a
The Development Officers assisted with the ACC Year 8
sustainable junior structure.
• Perth – 18 primary schools and six high schools
and 9 Lightning Carnivals in May 2005.
• Kalgoorlie – 10 primary schools and four high schools
Total school participants in regular rugby (5 or more
• Albany – six primary schools and three high schools
games) was 2,240 and irregular rugby (less than 5
During 2005 the Development Officer’s ran four Junior
• Geraldton – 10 primary schools and two high schools
games) 1,220.
Player Pathway courses for Junior Clubs with 74
• South West – 12 primary schools and seven high
Junior Development
participants. The Junior Player Pathway includes Walla
Development Clinics
(U6 – U8), Mini (U9 – U10) and Midi (U11 – U12) rugby.
The U14 and U15 Development Clinics in 2005 were
The course is an introduction to these games for coaches
The sampling programs give new participants to the sport
successful with the participants gaining valuable skill
and referees, who are usually mums and dads new to
of rugby the opportunity to learn the basic elements of
development. The U14 clinic had 48 participants and
coaching and or refereeing rugby.
the game.
was held in the June school holidays, and the U15 clinic
schools
had 113 participants and was held during the Easter
We piloted two other junior development programs in 2005 in the Walla Development Program and Junior
Schools
The Perth Development Officer’s introduced over 2,000
In 2005 RugbyWA hosted the following number of teams in the Combined Schools and Colleges competition:
18 sampling programs in Perth, the students participated
The U15 clinic proceeded through a selection process
providing Walla rugby participants, including coaches and
in games of Walla Rugby. In the Regional areas and
for the WAJRU U15 Development Team that toured to
parents, additional learning opportunities in the basic
South West the Development Officer’s introduced over
the Gold Coast for the Canterbury Rugby Tournament.
elements of catch and pass, evasion and pursuit, Walla
3,000 students to the game of rugby.
This was a very successful tour with the team returning
scrum and lineout.
# of TEAMS
Year 8
Year 9
Year 10
Open
Total
10
19
17
18
64
32 l RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report
students to the game. At the conclusion of 12 out of the
holidays.
Workshops. The Walla Development Program aims at
RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report l 33
Referee Manager The Junior Workshops are aimed at higher age groups
EdRugby
and in 2006 will focus on more specific areas of tackle,
RugbyWA Development Officers used the ARU’s National
winning the contact, ruck and maul, scrum, lineout and
Education Program as a tool to increase the exposure
warm ups.
of rugby throughout the school system. It has been
These programs will be further developed in 2006 and offered at all junior venues.
Community Clinics
Squad Development Program, which attempted to put in
54 schools signed up with EdRugby in 2005 with eleven of these taking up the Walla Challenge in 2005, and 10 students of the school to run their own Walla Tournament
clinics:
using all the concepts of EdRugby, both in the classroom
• UWA Sport Sports For Kids Program • Special Needs School Clinic • AASC Program • Challenge Kids Sports Club
follows: Firstly, the introduction of the West Australian Referees’
several community based organizations and general sport
• DSR – School of the Air Clinic
in our State. These highlights can be summarised as
Albany and Geraldton.
already booked for 2006. The Walla Challenge allows the
• YMCA Clinics
of West Australia in the continued development of rugby
especially valuable in the regional areas of Kalgoorlie,
The Development Officer’s provided coaching support for
• YPAAC After School Clinics
The 2005 season saw many highlights for the officials
and on the field. The schools that participate in the Walla Challenge receive a starter kit including lesson plans, balls, cones, whistles and a kit bag. Dwayne Nestor Rugby Development Manager
place a robust and sustainable training program for our top 15 referees, an activity-based framework to assist in improving their ongoing performances. The Program’s design concentrated on three distinct areas, namely the individual referee’s identification of specific goals for the season, the ability to learn and understand match analysis techniques and the self-analysis of individual performances. The Program then required the referee, in close association with the referee coach, to develop improvement techniques to adopt in future matches. The Program was ambitious as a first attempt, and not all of the performance indicators were achieved. However, overall it was a successful initiative, and, with some fine tuning already planned, it is envisaged that more of our referees can benefit in 2006. Secondly, a record number of five West Australian officials were appointed to officiate at the various ARU National Championships. This significant achievement was testament to the deserved higher profile of West Australian officials within Australia and to the ARU’s desire to actively support and promote our officials in light of Super 14 coming to Perth. Plans and programs have already been put in place to repeat this performance, or better it, for 2006. Thirdly, the unprecedented increase in those wishing to take up the whistle was witnessed in 2005. No less than 15 brand new recruits from the West Australian rugby community took up the challenge to referee in 2005, and of these, 12 were granted their full accreditation. In addition to these, a further seven teenagers embarked on their refereeing career by way of following the Junior Pathway (Referee), and they have all been awarded their competency certificate. The splitting of these two paths in 2005 has been a very successful move since it has allowed the hard working referee coaches at Britannia to focus their coaching techniques in a more concentrated fashion. These successful Pathway referees operate at the Midi (Under 11s and 12s) rugby fixtures at Britannia, and it is hoped that they will all progress through the refereeing stages in the future.
34 l RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report
The year started with the Pre-Season Referees’ Seminar on 26 February 2005, with over 60 referees and referee coaches attending. This involved the re-accreditation process for 2005, the delivery of the ARU 2005 Game Management Document and the revised Law interpretations, and the requirement for all referees to undergo an education program on SmartRugby, (which, from 2006, becomes a mandatory requirement as stipulated by the ARU). At this time 90% of WA officials currently qualified in SmartRugby. We were also very fortunate to host English referee Tony Spreadbury at our special pre-Test Referees’ meeting in August prior to the Tri-Nations Test Match. Tony provided a very humorous and insightful talk on his long and illustrious career as a top referee; the talk provoked a lively response from the large group of WA officials. Also present at this special meeting were Alain Rolland, the Test Match referee from Ireland, Dave Pearson from England, Malcolm Changleng from Scotland and Michel Lamoullie from France, the iRB Referee Assessor.
Courses & Training Activities As well as conducting a full schedule of referee related courses outlined in Table 1, 2005 saw the development and initial execution of a series of workshops directed towards the ongoing training and upskilling of referee coach activities. These workshops were attended by both referee coaches and senior referees and focussed on aspects of the ARU National Referee Coaching Plan, including the concept and implementation of referee self-analysis, the importance of referee communication and positional analysis. These areas of development and training are designed to enable the referee coaches to make a broader analysis of referee performance, in order to put in place a more proactive individual coaching plan for the referees. Two such workshops were held in 2005 and attended by a total of fifteen participants. It is planned to continue these arrangements for 2006 and beyond. 2005 also saw the further development of strategies to enhance the skills and education for our junior referees. These took the form of separate ‘hands on’ training sessions as well as formal education meetings for those officiating at the all-important junior grades. These sessions were organised and facilitated by members of the Referees’ Executive and Junior Coaching and Appointments Board and grateful thanks must be given to those responsible in contributing to the upskilling of our junior referees.
RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report l 35
officials to fulfil the important role of No. 4 and 5 at the
In addition, a full program of 12 referee education meetings was conducted during the season.
Super 14 matches in Perth in 2006. Since the duties of the appointed No. 4 for these matches extend to being
Table 1: Course Data for 2005
the reserve Touch Judge, an advanced Touch Judge
Course
Date
Location
Attendees
Foundation Course
12 Mar
Kalgoorlie
19
attended both of these training programs in November
Level 1 Referee
20 Mar
Rugby Park
13
2005.
Level 1 Touch Judge
23 Mar
Rugby Park
7
Rugby Park
5
Assessor Training Course 12-13 Apr Rugby Park
10
Junior Pathway (Referees) 4 Apr
Level 2 Referee Coach
1 May
Rugby Park
Foundation Course
6 May
training program was additionally created. Six WA officials
ARU and Senior Appointments WA Referees officiated at a number of high profile fixtures during 2005 and a summary is listed in Table 2.
4
Aranmore
ARU Level III Courses
Catholic College 20
Anthony O’Shea successfully completed the required
Level 1 Touch Judge
25 May
Rugby Park
6
accreditation for the ARU Level III Referee Program. This
Junior Pathway (Referee)
20 Jun
Rugby Park
4
program is conducted over a 12-month period, and runs
Foundation Course
3 Jul
Bunbury
Level 1 Referee
10 Jul
Rugby Park
5
Foundation Course
23 Oct
Rugby Park
32
Level 2 Referee
26 Nov
Rugby Park
5
Total
22
150
in tandem with the Level III ARU Player Coach Program. Ian Hailes was selected to attend the 2005-06 Referee Coach Program in Canberra in October.
Country RugbyWA referees provided a higher profile in Country WA in 2005, with many of the South-West Competition
In addition to the above, a specially constructed training
matches refereed by Perth based officials, a referee
program has been developed to prepare West Australian
update course conducted in Kalgoorlie in March and the
Table 2: Senior Appointments 2005 Date
36 l RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report
Match
Appointment
Name
7 May TARS Perth v QLD Country
Reserve Referee & Touch Judge
Geoff Patching & Peter Hilgendorf
21 May TARS Adelaide v Melbourne
Referee
Geoff Patching
21 May TARS Perth v Darwin
Reserve Referee & Touch Judge Peter Hilgendorf & Matt O’Brien
4 Jun TARS Darwin v NSW Country
Referee
Geoff Patching
18 Jun TARS Final Perth v Queensland Country
Reserve Referee & Touch Judge
Geoff Patching & Matt O’Brien
26 Jun – 1 Jul Australian Schoolboy Championships
Referee Coach
Ian Hailes
Division 2, Geelong.
4 Jul – 8 Jul
Australian Schoolboy Championships Touch Judge
Division 1, Canberra
20 Aug
Australia v South Africa No. 5 Referee
Rohen Skiba
Geoff Patching
Timekeeper
Maurie Day
Officials’ Manager
David Procopis
26 Sep – 1 Oct Under 16s Championships, Sydney
Geoff Patching
Referee
Touch Judge
Matt O’Brien
Referee Manager
Anthony O’Shea
17 Sep
Referee
Sean Popperwell
RugbyWA Premier Grade Grand Final
RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report l 37
Judiciary Report provision of officials for the annual country Carnival in
Conclusion
June. A paper has recently been drafted to extend this
Whilst there are a number of very positive outcomes from
support for the Country in 2006 with the likely increase of
the 2005 season, the advent of Super 14 rugby in West
clubs outside of Perth.
Australia in 2006 will bring a broader and higher level profile within Community Rugby and it is crucial that the
Other Highlights
management, recruitment and performance of officials
• Continuing the successful 2003 and 2004 initiative
move in tandem. Without doubt 2006 and beyond
of appointing In-Goal Touch Judges to all 2005 Senior
will bring fresh and more demanding challenges for all
Finals fixtures.
officials in WA, and from these challenges exciting and
• Continued use of IRB protocols for assessment of referees for Finals fixtures. • Re-accreditation program established for all existing officials • Successful exchange program established with the
new opportunities will develop. It is the responsibility and duty for all those involved in rugby in WA to meet these challenges and support the officials. Anthony O’Shea Referee Manager
Arabian Gulf Rugby Referees culminating in Matt O’Brien’s appointment to officiate at the Dubai 7s in November. The 2005 season resulted in 26 players appearing before the Judiciary as a result of 24 referee reports and 2 citings. An analysis of the cases considered by the Judiciary is: • Striking 15 • Referee abuse 3 • Illegal use of knee/foot offence 3 • Dangerous tackle 2 • Head butt 1 • Other 2 Included in the striking offences were two players who opted for a pre-determined sanction of 2 week suspension. Season 2005 was the second year under which players were given this option. On the positive side, the stats for the year shows a continuing improvement in player behaviour over previous year statistics, the comparison being 26 reports in 2005, 31 reports in 2004 and 46 reports in 2003. An analysis of the offences by grade was: • Premier grade 5 • Reserve grade 1 • A grade 7
previous years. These cases include originating offences, retaliation and ‘third man in’ situations. Club officials may note in assessing this that counseling of players in this regard may reduce the number of send-offs their club is exposed to in the future. There continues to be cases of referee abuse, and whilst the number was only three cases players and club officials are reminded that there are severe penalties prescribed for this offence under the WARU scale of penalties. Players are requested to show respect and restraint to referees and match officials, without the services of whom they do not get to play the game we all enjoy. Players and club officials would be well aware of the disservice, which offending players do to their team by spending time under suspension. The Judiciary encourages a continued effort for player self control in the future. In summary, the send off statistics seem to indicate that player behaviour is continuing to improve. The Judiciary panel comprised the following members – Rod Todman (Chairman), Michael Cashman (Deputy Chairman), Bob Brain, Gary Sampson, Rick Roberts, John Hancock and Milton Hunt.
• B grade 7 • Under 19 grade 6
Rod Todman Judiciary Chairman
The major offence which resulted in a send-off was for striking/punching, which was the also the situation in
38 l RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report
RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report l 39
WAJRU Report 2005 Overall
Saturday field set up and take down and assistance with
Junior Rugby Union participation numbers continue to rise on the back of a greater awareness of rugby union in Western Australia. The announcement of the inclusion of the Emirates Western Force as the fourth Australian Super 14 team will provide a strong focus for rugby union at the junior level.
the smooth running of the canteen. Congratulations on
It was clear to the Junior Union that a strategic approach to future planning was required. The special qualities of WA junior rugby needed to be maintained whilst ensuring a framework for growth is implemented.
and continued contribution. Thank you to Kyle Skiba for
The first steps in response to this strategic planning are currently being taken. The dependence on Britannia Reserve can not be maintained and a proposed structure of three zones for U7 – U10s is seen as a critical step in taking the game to developing areas. A closer working relationship with RugbyWA and linking into their structure will enable a cleaner and quicker delivery of services to clubs and affiliated bodies in season 2006.
his Executive Committee, continue to support the
The Midland and Palmyra Juniors jointly received the Stephen Fink Award for their overall contribution to Junior Rugby in 2005. The Award recognises Clubs that have provided a high level of support with matters such as
able to offer a competition in every age group from Under
the Award to Eddie Davies and Committee (Midland), and Nigel Eaton and Committee (Palmyra). Volunteers Todd Nichol and Bill Thomas provided invaluable assistance to the running of the Saturday competition and I would like to acknowledge their support coordinating the ground set up on Saturday mornings. The President of the Western Australian Rugby Union Referees Association (WARURA), Nick Cogin, and development of our match officials in Junior Rugby. Referee coaching and mentoring of junior match officials is a feature of this support and the foundation work by WARURA in this area is significantly benefiting junior rugby.
2005 Competition 2005 was a significant year in that the Junior Union was 7 through to Under 17. An increase in the number of teams competing in the Saturday morning competition saw 183 teams registered (up from 162 in 2004) and 50
RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report l 41
WARURA Report of these teams were playing Walla rugby (U7/8). Onethird of our growth was in the Walla rugby age groups. Three key areas require special mention: • School involvement in the competition – Scotch College (U16s) and CBC Fremantle (U13s). The participation of these two schools in the competition was a positive step and their continued involvement is welcomed and encouraged. • U11s and U12s competition – In the second half of the competition two divisions were created in both these age groups. The aim of the divisions was to ensure closer games and an increased enjoyment for participants. • U16s competition – WAJRU has been eager for a number of years to provide a viable U16s competition. A high drop out rate is a characteristic of this age group and by providing a U16s competition we hope to address this trend. Congratulations to Club Champion for 2004, Joondalup Brothers. In the rapidly expanding northern suburbs, Joondalup is well positioned to maintain a strong junior focus. The bonus points system for player and spectator attitude was again continued and expanded in season 2005. In association with the Referees we will continue to support this initiative in 2006.
Development Walla Rugby Clinics were trialed at Britannia Reserve under the guidance of RugbyWA. The clinics proved successful with basic skills being actively illustrated to participants, coaches and parents. These clinics will be expanded in 2006. The U15 Development Squad traveled to the Gold Coast to participate in the high profile Gold Coast Rugby Carnival. The squad completed a successful Carnival by not only wining their division but also taking out two prestigious awards; the ‘Spirit of Rugby’ Award, voted by the participating teams and the ‘Canterbury’ Award, voted by the referees. This is an outstanding effort and is a credit to the players and the touring management team. Parents and the player’s clubs should also be very proud of these achievements. The continued professional management of this tour by Martin Cowley, on behalf of WAJRU, is acknowledged and greatly appreciated.
42 l RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report
Our U16 State Team participated in Division 1 of the Australian U16 Championships at Riverview College, Sydney. After a slow start to the Championships the team had a win over Victoria and finished with a ranking of seventh. On behalf of the WAJRU, the players, coaches and management are to be congratulated for their efforts and the high standard of their State representation.
In 2005 WARURA appointed referees to all sanctioned matches played in the Perth metropolitan area (and some beyond). I am advised by our Referee Manager that is an achievement that no other Australian referee association can boast. Given the growth in our juniors and the continued strength of our seniors we should be proud of this achievement.
Administration
We also need to be proud of the achievements of our members. Geoff Patching and Matt O’Brien were appointed by the ARU to officiate at the Australian School’s Championships. This is regarded as a development step and it is noteworthy that we had two members at this event. Geoff was again selected to officiate at Australian Rugby Shield matches. Rohen Skiba was appointed by the ARU to officiate at the Darwin 7’s early in 2006. Matt O’Brien was been appointed by the Executive and departed on Monday 28 November 2005 to officiate at the Dubai 7’s. This is a very significant exchange and we need to acknowledge the work of John Hill in organising two referees from Dubai to commence this exchange. We anticipate that the Dubai exchange will continue and become a very significant development opportunity. I would like to acknowledge the work Anthony O’Shea, in conjunction with RugbyWA, has done to organise and fund appropriate exchanges for our members
The valuable assistance of the Junior Rugby Coordinator position was consolidated in season 2005. This position is appointed by RugbyWA and is financially supported by the WAJRU. The duties of this position have increased and it is clear that the Junior Rugby Coordinator has created a more professional face for Junior Rugby with improved accessibility and prompter responses to issues. Omar Haji has implemented the wide range of tasks with professionalism, and the Clubs and the WAJRU Executive Committee appreciate his enormous contribution. Club assistance and cooperation throughout the season is a feature of our structure. This would not be possible without the continued support of Club Presidents, Secretaries and Junior Coordinators. Thank you for your contribution. RugbyWA provides positive support for the aims and objectives of the WAJRU with Board member Stephen Fink’s guidance and assistance greatly appreciated. I would like to acknowledge RugbyWA staff members Mitch Hardy, Stuart Dart, Brenden Loag, Dwayne Nestor, Anthony O’Shea, Omar Haji and Helen Sutherland whom all positively contributed to Junior Rugby in their respective areas.
An issue that became very apparent in 2005 was the lack of depth in our referee panels. Our objective is to implement strategies to have strong competition between those referees in the A & B panels. That was clearly not the situation in 2005 and I suspect it may not be the
case in 2006. You can therefore expect that you will see initiates to increase the depth of our referee panels.
Website Probably the most successful initiative for the season was the WARURA website. We all owe a debt of gratitude to Sam James for creating the site and David Procopis for assuming responsibility for the management of it. David spent many hours maintaining the site with relevant and interesting information.
New Kit The season started with the launch of our new strip and kit. The launch function was very successful, and gave us the venue to focus our membership on the new season ahead. Generally the new strip and kit was a successful initiative. I acknowledge the quality of the manufacturing process and delivery times for some of the kit was a little disappointing. However we must all acknowledge that every member received new kit free of charge. This initiative was designed to give something back to every member. The Executive was generally satisfied that the project matched our expectations from a value for money perspective.
Referee Abuse At our last AGM referee abuse was a very potent topic of discussion. The Executive understood from the last AGM that referee abuse was a big issue for our members
The demands on the Junior Executive have increased markedly. Chris Olliver, Julie Skiba, Karen Hodson. Beverley McDougall, Brian Thompson, and Tala Tuiavii have provided an enormous contribution to Junior Rugby Union in season 2005. I personally appreciated their support and acknowledge their tireless efforts. Season 2006 will present our greatest challenge to date. Rapidly increasing participation requires some strategic changes and I request all our members consider and evaluate the changes constructively and in the context of the development of the overall Junior Union. We are most certainly at the start of an exciting time for Junior Rugby in Western Australia. Stephen Carrick President, WAJRU
RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report l 43
WACRU Report and the time had come to implement some strategies to stop what appeared to be a concerning cultural shift from within our game. Consequently, the Executive decided to take a very strong stand to try to stop referee abuse in season 2006. I am happy to say that after a bit of a slow start we received the full support from RugbyWA and the clubs. By the middle of the season we had made some positive steps to communicating our message. I am confident that the issues that arose in 2004 and early 2005 are very unlikely to re-occur in 2006.
Fitness & Selection Policy The Executive was concerned that there had been criticism about the quality of refereeing in 2004. In direct response to this issue the Executive asked the CAB to require objective fitness levels that would be applied to selection policy throughout the season. The response from the membership was poor. We started the season with a much reduced B panel because quite a few members could not meet the fitness level that the CAB had (in consultation with the Executive) set. In my view this exposed one factor that needs attention as soon as possible. Most of our existing B panel regard refereeing as a weekend past-time who are not able (generally due to professional commitments) to meet what most would regard as moderate fitness results early in the season. I am not saying this is an unsatisfactory result. I accept that due to professional commitments some of our members can’t meet the standards that were set. Consequently we need to develop/recruit more referees who are younger and are legitimate A and B panel candidates.
Education Programme The Executive (primarily Geoff Patching) and Anthony O’Shea put a lot of pre-season effort into developing an education programme that was intended to be challenging and would provide measurable outcomes. This process included the introduction of videoing club matches and starting the season with a pre-season training session that was aimed at our A and B panel referees. I am aware that the programme had its problems. I suspect the main problem was that it may have been too ambitious. You can expect more work to be done in this area of our development plans.
Juniors We continued to have strong growth in the juniors and that is expected to continue next season. Our juniors
44 l RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report
continued to be well serviced by the commitment of Julie Skiba, Brian Thompson Henry Egan and Geoff Patching as well as out referee coaches who assisted the Junior CAB. The juniors are our Association’s future and we owe a debt of gratitude to all members who give up their time to help out at the juniors. We continue to have a very healthy relationship with WAJRU and I am grateful for the assistance and cooperation we enjoy with Mr Stephen Carrick (President WAJRU) and all members of the WAJRU Executive.
RugbyWA I would also like to thank our referee manager Anthony O’Shea and Mitch Hardy for their work with our Association. Anthony continues to provide a very valuable link between RugbyWA and WARURA. Mitch has been very supportive of our Association and I am confident that we will build on what is already a very solid cooperative working relationship
CAB & Referee Coaches We all owe a debt of gratitude to David Procopis, Maurie Day and John Schlafrig for the work they did referee coaching and selecting referees for all of our appointments. I also wish to thank all our referee coaches who assisted throughout the year. Referee coaching is a relatively thankless task and it takes a strong commitment to the development of the game to be a referee coach. Those that work in out association are experienced and skilled. We hope to see them back next season as every referee coach is crucial to our referee development plans.
2005 has again proven to be a successful year for
Goldfields
Country Rugby. Our numbers have grown significantly over
The number of teams dropped a little this year with both Kambalda and The Brothers not playing due to internal issues, this saw the creation of the Kalgoorlie Stormers. After a few weeks, the Stormers fast became a powerhouse Goldfields Team that saw them quickly rise to the top end of the competition ladder.
the past 12-months and it would be safe to assume that the start of our own professional Rugby Team would be a factor driving this. Since the 2003 World Cup and the inception of the Force, the face of rugby as we know it has changed. We have seen RugbyWA go from an amateur Association
Executive
to a multi million operation in a matter of months. The
I would like to thank all members of the Executive (Kim Short, Anthony Carroll Geoff Patching, Sam James and Mark Nicholas) for their work during the year. This year the Executive worked very hard on trying to give all members more for their membership dollar. In my view improvements were made and I would also concede that much more needs to be done.
on flow affect in its first year has already reached both
Lastly I would like to thank all of our members for their continued support of our association and Rugby in general. I finish this report where I started and that is without your efforts there would be no Rugby. I also ask that you all return in season 2006. The 2006 season this will be very challenging and also very exciting.
and even the coaches are no different from your normal
Nick Cogin President, WARURA
it won’t be long before more WA boys pull on the blue
With four teams battling it out over the season, the Buschwackers and the Stormers contested a hard fought Grand Final that saw the Bushwackers again defend their title 36-16.
metropolitan and country clubs. I was fortunate enough to be invited on the Country trips with the Force to Geraldton and Albany. The weekends allowed me to see what talents these players had, that got them to a Super 14 level. I found that the players club rugby, have a few beers, sing a few songs, play some games on the bus trip and then drink a few more beers. I believe that it’s the opportunities that these players were provided early in their playing careers that makes a Super 14 player. Now that WA can provide these opportunities, jersey.
Southwest The Southwest Competition was fought out by three teams, Margaret River, Dunsborough and Narrogin. All of the teams contested very well and with not much between them, it was going to lead to a very tight finish for the finals. The two final teams to walk the field were Minor Premiers, Dunsborough and Margaret River. At halftime, both teams were locked at 10 points a piece. Margaret River was crowned Champions with a 22-15 victory. With the further development of Country Rugby, 2006 will see the re-emergence of Collie into the Southwest Competition.
RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report l 45
WAWRU Report Great Southern
of retirement and supporting the Great Southern. I know
The Great Southern have been the big plus for Country
you all spent a few weeks afterwards recovering from the
Rugby with Albany, Mt Barker, Denmark & Katanning all
damage inflicted on those aging bodies.
forming the Great Southern.
The 2006 Country Carnival will hosted by Geraldton during
Mt Barker had its inaugural 10’s Competition with a total
the June long weekend. The facilities in Geraldton are
of five teams participating. The competition saw Margaret
exceptional and I’m sure it will be a great success.
River win the final over Dunsborough. After the success of this tournament, the 2006 10’s will be played during the Easter Break with a number of Perth Teams travelling to Mt Barker along with the Country participants.
Geraldton The Geraldton Internationals are made up of players from around the world that have formed a team to play against other teams that tour to Geraldton.
WA Country The WA Country Team played two representative games this year with the first against an A-Grade Selection Team. WA Country Coach, Greg Hunt anticipated a hard game, to contain the ball out wide with the speedsters on the wings and the A-Grade defeated Country 26-14.
Country Carnival
Bayswater during the Test Match weekend. Perth came
Country Carnival was a great success with all regions
out a little under manned and this made it easy for
being represented. Again, the ever powerful Buschwackers
WA Country to dominate the ball. Country convincingly
proved too strong and defeated the Stormers in the final to
defeated Perth 48-10.
Thank you to Mitch, Brendan and Dwayne for coming out
46 l RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report
Cottesloe and Kalamunda were the form teams of the competition, with Wanneroo showing serious improvement by season end. Cottesloe took on Southern Lions in a one sided Grand Final, and were easy victors, displaying all the speed and skill that had served them well through out the season.
and indeed it was. The Country Players found it hard
The second game for the year was against Perth-
reclaim the title of Country Champions.
The 2005 Women’s season was a mixed bag with some good rugby being played in between some issues with player numbers and forfeits. The regular competition included teams from Cottesloe, University, Kalamunda, Southern Lions and newcomers Wanneroo competing over 14 rounds of competition, culminating in a top four finals series.
Ray Mills President, WACRU
There were several other initiatives throughout the season to give the women access to higher level rugby. The first of these was a North vs South curtain raiser to an Argonaut Gold fixture. Both teams displayed some good rugby and there was very positive feedback from all involved. Women had another opportunity to press for higher rugby honours when the Australian selectors flew to Perth to view a weekend of fixtures with the aim of selecting squad members for the Womens Rugby World Cup in 2006. An eventual 8 women were selected in the National Talent
Squad, which included 140 members across Australia. These women will take part in training and testing and will need to make it through several reductions of the squad as it is narrowed down to 40 in total. Cottesloe’s Debby Hodgkinson won the Sue Roberts Medal for best player in the Womens Competition. Debby had an outstanding season and was also selected in the Womens NTS squad with high hopes of making it to the World Cup in Canada in 2006. A player survey was also distributed at the end of the season to gauge players’ thoughts on various aspects of the competition structure. This summary document will provide the basis for planning for the 2006 season. From a management perspective the committee met on a monthly basis with representatives from each club to cover any issues arising during the season. Matthew Nolan in his role as Treasurer must be recognised for the huge effort he put in going above and beyond his role. Unfortunately Matthew is moving back to Queensland next year and his services will be sorely missed on the committee next season. Tim Davies RugbyWA Rugby Services Coordinator
RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report l 47
WASRU Report It was another successful season for Schools Rugby in WA in 2005. The WA Schoolboys were the joint winners of the Division 2 interstate championships, and 11 players were selected as members of the Combined States team which participated in the Division 1 carnival. Thank you to all the volunteers who contributed to the successful season and also to the RugbyWA staff Omar Haji, Mitch Hardy, Anthony O’Shea and Brenden Loag. Without assistance from our parent body the competition would revert to being run by volunteers. Most school teams are run by teachers who are also coaching and managing teams. Thank you also to RugbyWA for a grant of $4,000 towards the administrative costs of running schools Rugby during 2005. Also thanks to School Sport WA for their sponsorship of EDWA teachers who participated in the Interstate carnival. The two-year window continues to be a divisive issue. Whilst we accept the safety issues related to it we must continue to voice our concerns. The Headmasters of the PSA competition demanded some clarity with the 2 year window and the 12-point agreement between RugbyWA and the PSA. This was revisited and a resolution was made for 2005, the ARU’s decision to make the 2 – year window mandatory for all age – grade rugby in Australia will cause further fraction in 2006. This decision will be to the detriment of schoolboy Rugby competitions throughout Australia and is being vigorously challenged by the Australian Schools Rugby Union. An agreement on competition rules was not reached in time for the PSA competitions to run without interruption, this must be avoided in 2006 so the schools can get on with encouraging boys to play the game.
Combined Schools and Colleges Competition Some schools reported difficulties with interpreting the 2005 year divisions. In some cases the school year divisions were misinterpreted as age divisions. At least two small schools were unable to fill teams because the 2 year restrictions did not allow students in the year prior to the division to participate. The placing of the year 12 competitions in term 2 is a cause for concern since most schools have exams during the competition which requires fixture changes and forfeits. A revision of the competition format will take place before 2006. The 2005 Schools Rugby season had 3 different staff administering the competition at various stages, mainly due to the advent of the Emirates Western Force. With these staff changes within RugbyWA, unfamiliarity with
48 l RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report
local conditions and competition rules caused some minor problems. Some fine tuning is required with reciprocity of penalties. I understood that penalties were mutual between schools and juniors preventing players from playing in a different system and avoiding a penalty imposed. This area needs some further governance and cooperation between the two bodies.
rewarded with 11 boys being selected in the Combined States team. Adam Scari was selected in the Australian “A” Schoolboys team.
• Sean Batchelor
The result of the Championship Final was as follows:
• Angus Neilson (WA Captain)
• Victoria 12 (Fa’afitu Seu, James Tupai tries; Christian Lealiifano conversion)
• Adam Scari
• WA 12 (Glyn Edwards, David Mafi tries; Rory McCarthy conversion)
• Arnie Slabber
Competition Format The 2005 competition was contested across Terms 2 and Terms 3, with competitions played in 4 zones to minimise travel time and around 1100 players participating from 29 schools. The following table indicates the various competitions, the day they were held, commencement date and completion date: Competition Term
Day
Commencement Completion
Date
Date
Open
2 Tue
May
Jun
Year 10
2
Wed
May
Jun
Year 9
3
Wed
August
Sep
Year 8
3 Tue
August
Sep
Winners Charles Blunt Trophy – Victoria and Western Australia (shared)
• Glynn Edwards • Tim Carslaw
• Andrew Farquharson
• Rory McCarthy • Ben Lindegaard Adam Scari went on to play for Australia ‘A’ vs Samoa.
Combined States Players 2005
WA Schools have once again had a very successful
The following the players made the Combined States team in 2005 – 11 in total
season and are very grateful for the support and
• Tane Heke
Richard Trend
• Quentin Stockil
President, WASRU
assistance from RugbyWA and WA School Sport.
Participation With around 1,100 players participating from 29 schools the CSC competition is stable with a similar participation figure for the last few years.
Results 2005 Competition
Winning School
Runner Up
Open Div
John XXIII
Safety Bay High
Year 10
Aranmore
Mandurah Catholic College
Year 9
Aranmore
Kolbe
Year 8
Aranmore Thornlie
Interstate Carnival, Division II Championships The WA team participated in the Division II carnival held in June at Geelong Grammar. The 4th Division Two Australian Schools Rugby Union Championships were staged at Geelong Grammar, Melbourne from Friday 24th June – Thursday 30 June 2005. WA Schools won every game except the final which they drew with Victoria in a thrilling final. WA was
RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report l 49
Awards
Grade Tables
Best Player Argonaut Gold
Competition: RugbyWA
Ryan Lenegan (Uni)
Grade: Premier
W
L
D Bye
Cottesloe
16 12
4
0
RugbyWA Referee of the Year
Wests-Subiaco
16 12
4
0
2 11
458 239 192 67
Geoff Patching
Nedlands
16 11
5
0
2 12
493 192 257 64
RugbyWA Coach of the Year Des Thornton
Laurie de la Hunty Trophy for Most Improved Player
P
B
2 12
F
A
% Pts
500 214 234 68
Associates
16 10
6
0
2 15
459 220 209 63
University
16 11
5
0
2
9
397 201 198 61
Kalamunda
16
8
8
0
2
7
329 347
Perth-Bayswater 16
5
11
0
2
6
292 476
61 34
Wanneroo
16
2
14
0
2
5
236 547
43 21
Palmyra
16
1
15
0
2
7
225 503
45 19
B
95 47
Michael Patching (Uni)
George Newstead Trophy for Most Outstanding Colt
Competition: RugbyWA W
L
D Bye
Tristan Winnal (Soaks)
Cottesloe
16 14
2
0
Grade: Reserve
Sue Roberts Trophy for Best and Fairest Women – Debby Hodgkinson (Cott).
P
2 11
F
A
% Pts
489 162 302 75
Associates
16 12
4
0
2 13
438 144 304 69
Sue Roberts Trophy for Best and Fairest Women
Nedlands
16 12
4
0
2 10
409 149 274 66
Wests-Subiaco
16 11
5
0
2 10
419 200 210 62
Debby Hodgkinson (Cott)
Kalamunda
16 10
6
0
2 10
388 208 186 58
Wanneroo
16
5
11
0
2
4
224 408
55 32
PG Hampshire Trophy
University
16
4
12
0
1
8
231 372
62 28
Matt Aiken (Cott)
Perth-Bayswater 16
3
13
0
2
4
183 420
44 24
Palmyra
1
15
0
2
2
156 449
35 14
B
16
PG Hampshire Leaderboard 16 – Matt Aiken (Cott) 15 – Greg Plimmer (Wests)
Competition: RugbyWA
14 – Robbie Barugh (Soaks)
Grade: A Grade
W
L
D Bye
13 – A nthony Brain (Soaks), Matthew Peachey (Kala), Michael Patching (Uni)
Rockingham
18 17
1
0
0 16
652 135 483 84
ARKs
17 16
1
0
1 13
539
PG Hampshire Trophy – Matt Aiken (Cott).
50 l RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report
P
F
A
% Pts
92 586 81
Joondalup
18 13
5
0
0 14
566 241 235 66
Kalamunda
17 12
4
1
1 10
364 208 175 64
Curtin
17 12
4
1
1
6
322 199 162 60
Southern Lions
18 11
6
1
0
9
414 207 200 55
Wests-Subiaco
18 11
6
1
0
9
345 196 176 55
Mandurah
17
9
7
1
1
8
360 238 151 50
Midland
17
8
8
1
1 10
427 241 177 48
Palmyra
17
8
8
1
1 10
335 237 141 48
Associates
17
8
8
1
1 10
350 339 103 48
Cottesloe
17
8
9
0
1
9
295 252 117 45
Perth-Bayswater 18
5
13
0
0
6
244 504
48 26
Nedlands
18
5
13
0
0
5
240 426
56 25
Wanneroo
17
2
15
0
1
2
80 460
17 14
Bunbury
17
1
16
0
1
1
101 697
14
9
University
18
1
17
0
0
0
78 600
13
4
RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report l 51
Competition: RugbyWA Grade: B Grade
P
Competition: RugbyWA
W
L
D Bye
B
F
Associates Green 17 17
0
0
1 16
736
A
% Pts
45 1636 88
Grade: Women
P
W
L
D Bye
B
F
Cottesloe
10
9
0
1
3 15
440
38 1158 65
A
69 603 61
Perth-Bayswater 18 17
1
0
0 13
639 125 511 81
Kalamunda
11
9
2
0
2 17
416
Rockingham
18 14
4
0
0 14
480 151 318 70
Wanneroo
10
2
8
0
3 13
130 403
% Pts
32 33
ARKs
18 15
3
0
0
9
491 207 237 69
Southern Lions
10
3
6
1
2
8
212 213 100 30
Mandurah
17 10
7
0
1
9
263 176 149 53
University
11
2
9
0
2
4
101 276
Cottesloe
17 10
7
0
1
9
390 292 134 53
Nedlands
17
9
8
0
1 10
334 217 154 50
Joondalup
17
9
7
1
1
6
325 257 126 48
Curtin
18 10
7
1
0
4
224 186 120 46
Associates
18
8
9
1
0
8
263 317
83 42
Midland
16
7
9
0
1
4
252 347
73 36
Wests-Subiaco
17
6
10
1
1
4
179 242
74 34
Southern Lions 2 18
6
11
1
0
5
230 550
42 31
Southern Lions
17
3
14
0
1
8
237 414
57 24
Bunbury
17
4
12
1
0
5
176 358
49 23 23 12
Wanneroo
18
2
16
0
0
4
123 531
University
9
1
8
0
0
2
68 262
26
6
Palmyra
9
1
8
0
0
0
20 324
6
4
Kalamunda
8
0
8
0
0
0
20 249
8
0
37 20
Competition: RugbyWA Grade: Under 19
W
L
D Bye
B
F
A
% Pts
Rockingham
18 16
2
0
0 12
416 158 263 76
Nedlands Blue
17 14
3
0
1 15
551 114 483 75
Associates
17 14
3
0
1 12
534 103 518 72
Kalamunda
16 12
4
0
2 12
464 122 380 68
University
17 11
6
0
1 10
305 146 209 58
Palmyra
17 10
7
0
1 12
371 238 156 56
7
1
1 11
391 254 154 53
Perth-Bayswater 17
9
Nedlands Gold
18
9
9
0
0
7
276 337
82 43
Associates Green 17
5
12
0
1
6
235 368
64 30
ARKs
18
5
12
1
0
5
170 561
30 27
Wests-Subiaco
17
4
13
0
1
6
206 494
42 26
Wanneroo
18
2
14
2
0
0
83 385
22 12
Joondalup Southern Lions
52 l RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report
P
9
2
7
0
0
3
69 194
36 11
18
2
16
0
0
3
102 474
22 11
RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report l 53
Chief Finance Officer The awarding of a the fourth Australian Super 14 team to Perth in December 2004 not only provided recruitment and other professional rugby challenges, but the prospect of managing rapid growth and change in our business also provided us with the opportunity to establish some of the most up to date business practices within a professional sporting organisation in Australia. In 2005 RugbyWA spent significant time and resources on the set up of Information Technology, Accounting and Software based systems, and also the recruitment and training of staff required to manage and work within our various business units. Budgets and other forecasts were developed for each business unit and our team shared a clear vision during 2005 of ensuring the systems and investments we made in 2005 would benefit our business for years to come. Our Management team worked closely in recruiting, training and retaining the best people for our business and our ongoing commitment to staff developed and support, will ensure RugbyWA remains an employer of choice in the Western Australian market place. With the prospect of limited funding in 2005 and faced with the likelihood of a significant financial deficit, our focus was very much on investing wisely for our future. Large financial contributions were made to the recruitment and establishment of our professional rugby division. A significant increase of funding was provided to Community Rugby during 2005 and we have committed to additional resources to Community Development in 2006.
Financial Report The success of our investment of resources has also resulted in us achieving the largest membership base of any Super 14 team in Australian and this has provided a financial platform for our future growth. Our investments also resulted in our sponsorship team securing above budgeted levels of commitments from the business community and our marketing team have exceeded expectation in their ability to secure an impressive corporate hospitality portfolio.
WESTERN AUSTRALIAN RUGBY UNION (INC.)
For the 14 month year ended 31 December 2005, our business posted a net trading loss of $2,893,401 against a budgeted loss of $2,937,471. And given that several investments were made outside of budget during 2005, this is an encouraging result.
Board Members
Nevertheless, our business does face financial and business related challenges over the forthcoming 2-3 years. Our team is committed to working closely to manage these challenges and to ensure that RugbyWA continues to grow and prosper. I would also like to thank Geoff Stooke (Chairman), Terry Bradbury (Director) and our Chief Executive Officer, Peter O’Meara, for their energy, direction and leadership during 2005. They have all made an enormous contribution to our success to date. David Round Chief Financial Officer and Secretary to the Board
ABN 30 013 947 501 14 Month Period Ended 31 December 2005
Director’s Report Your board members submit the financial report of the Western Australian Rugby Union (Inc.) (‘RugbyWA’) for the 14 month period ended 31 December 2005.
The names of board members throughout the period and at the date of this report are: Geoffrey Stooke: Chairman Anthony Harvey: President Terry Bradbury Steve Fink David Redpath Arthur Hill: retired May 2005 Bryan French: retired May 2005 Rick Watson: retired May 2005 Gary Sampson: retired May 2005 Richard Henning: retired May 2005 Russell Perry: appointed July 2005 Vern Reid: appointed October 2005 Brent Stewart: appointed October 2005
The principal activities of the association during the financial year were the operation and management of Rugby Union development in Western Australia and the formation of the professional team the Emirates Western Force.
Significant Changes in the State of Affairs The Australian Rugby Union granted a license to RugbyWA to participate in the new Super 14 competition from 2006. This significant event has resulted in our business undertaking significant growth and development in the 2005 year. There was also a change of year end from 31 October to 31 December commencing with the 14 month period ended 31 December 2005, to coincide with reporting periods of the other unions in Australia.
Operating Result The loss for the period amounted to $2,893,401 for the 14 months ended 31 December 2005.
Events Occurring After Balance Date There have been no material events after balance date that are required to be disclosed. Signed in accordance with a resolution of the members of the Board.
Robert Viol: appointed July 2005 Brendan Cannon: Player Representative, appointed October 2005 Peter O’Meara: Chief Executive Officer, appointed February 2006 David Round – Secretary
54 l RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report
Principal Activities
Geoffrey Stooke Dated: 9 March 2006 Perth
RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report l 55
Financial Statement STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE FOR THE 14 MONTH PERIOD ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2005
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2005
Note
Revenue
2005
2004
$
$
CURRENT ASSETS
2
3,766,764
855,019
Employee benefits expense
(2,791,605)
(435,473)
Administration expenses
(2,414,786)
(294,350)
Borrowing costs
(4,247)
-
Depreciation expense
(149,532)
(99,614)
Marketing expenses
(227,633)
(15,630)
Occupancy expenses
(218,881)
(12,483)
Legal and consulting expenses
(454,183)
-
Other expenses
(399,298)
-
Net loss attributable to members
(2,893,401)
(2,531)
The accompanying notes form part of this financial report.
13(b)
Note
2005
2004
$
$
Cash
3
8,522,365
820,225
Receivables
4
402,172
73,631
Inventories
5
58,762
17,504
Other current assets
6
690,729
855
TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS
9,674,028
912,215
7
542,614
142,179
542,614
142,179
10,216,642
1,054,394
Payables
8
1,321,676
65,426
Unearned revenue
9
9,183,757
-
Finance leases
10
82,002
-
Non interest bearing liability
11
780,000
-
Provisions
12
115,019
142,328
11,482,456
207,754
Finance leases
10
45,280
-
Non interest bearing liability
11
720,000
-
Provisions
12
15,669
-
780,949
-
12,263,405
207,754
(2,046,761)
846,640
NON-CURRENT ASSETS Property, plant and equipment TOTAL NON-CURRENT ASSETS TOTAL ASSETS CURRENT LIABILITIES
TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES
TOTAL NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES TOTAL LIABILITIES NET ASSETS
MEMBERS’ FUNDS
Reserves
13
-
30,000
(Accumulated losses)/Retained profits
13
(2,046,761)
816,640
(2,046,761)
846,640
TOTAL MEMBERS’ FUNDS
The accompanying notes form part of this financial report.
56 l RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report
RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report l 57
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE 14 MONTH PERIOD ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2005
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2005
NOTE 1: SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
NOTE 1: STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (cont’d)
a. Financial Report
g. Property, Plant and Equipment
This financial report is a special purpose financial report prepared in order to satisfy the financial reporting requirements of the Associations Incorporation Act of Western Australia. The Board has determined that the association is not a reporting entity.
The requirements of accounting standards and other professional reporting requirements in Australia do not have mandatory applicability to the Western Australian Rugby Union (Inc.) in relation to the 14 month period ended 31 December 2005 because it is not a reporting entity. The financial report has been prepared on an accruals basis of accounting including the historical cost convention and the going concern assumption The financial report has been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Associations Incorporation Act of Western Australia and the (AAS) Australian Accounting Standards, except where these have been superseded by (AASB) Australian Accounting Standards Board. The following standards have not been complied with:
AAS 22: Related Party Disclosures
AAS 28: Statement of Cashflows
AAS 33: Presentation and Disclosure of Financial Instruments
AAS 37: Financial Report Presentation and Disclosure
AASB1005: Segment Reporting
AASB1010: Recoverable Amount of Non Current Assets AASB1034: Financial Report Presentation and Disclosures AASB1047: Disclosing the Impacts of Adoption to Australian Equivalents to International Accounting Standards
Cost
Subsequent to initial recognition as an asset all classes of property, plant and equipment are measured at cost.
Depreciation
Depreciation is provided on a straight- line basis on all property, plant and equipment.
Major depreciation periods are:
2005
2004
Freehold buildings
40 years
40 years
Furniture and fittings
2 to 10 years
2 to 10 years
Leasehold improvements
the lease term
the lease term
Motor vehicles
Plant and equipment
7 years
7 years
2 to 15 years
2 to 15 years
h. Leases Leases of assets, where substantially all the risks and benefits incidental to the ownership of the asset, but not the legal ownership, are transferred to the Association, are classified as finance leases. Finance leases are capitalised recording an asset and a liability equal to the present value of the minimum lease payments, including any guaranteed residual values. Leased assets are amortised on a straight line basis over their estimated useful lives where it is likely that the association will obtain ownership of the asset or over the term of the lease. Lease payments are allocated between the reduction of the lease liability and the lease interest expense for the period. Lease payments under operating leases, where substantially all the risks and benefits remain with the lessor, are charged as expenses in the period in which they are incurred.
b. Change in Accounting Policies The accounting policies adopted are consistent with those of the previous year.
i. Trade and Other Payables
c. Income Tax
Liabilities for trade creditors and other amounts are carried at cost which is the fair value of the consideration to be paid in the future for goods and services received, whether or not billed to the Association.
The Association is a body in accordance with s50-45 of the Income Tax Assessments Act (1997) which exempts sporting clubs from income tax.
j. Provisions
d. Cash and Cash Equivalents
Provisions are recognised when the economic entity has a legal, equitable or constructive obligation to make a future sacrifice of economic benefits to other entities as a result of past transactions or other past events, it is probable that a future sacrifice of economic benefits will be required and a reliable estimate can be made of the amount of the obligation.
Cash on hand, in banks and short term deposits are stated at nominal value. Cash includes cash on hand and in banks, and money market investments readily convertible to cash. e. Trade and Other Receivables Trade receivables are recognised and carried at original invoice amount less any provision for doubtful debts. A provision for doubtful debts is recognised when collection of the full amount is no longer probable. Bad debts are written off as incurred. f. Inventories Inventories are valued at the lower of cost and net realisable value.
58 l RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report
RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report l 59
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2005
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2005
NOTE 1: STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (cont’d)
2005
2004
$
$
k. Revenue Recognition
NOTE 2: REVENUE
Revenue is recognised to the extent that it is probable that the economic benefits will flow to the Association and the revenue can be reliably measured. The following specific recognition criteria must also be met before revenue is recognised.
Memberships
167,454
-
1,140,321
219,678
120,608
-
Rendering of Services
Grants received
1,785,638
470,969
Where the contract outcome can be reliably measured:
Interest received
137,974
-
• control of a right to be compensated for the services has been attained and the stage of completion can be reliably measured. For membership subscription, stage of completion is measured by reference to matches played and costs incurred. For sponsorship revenue, stage of completion is measured by reference to periods fulfilled as a percentage of total sponsorship periods.
Sundry revenue
414,769
164,372
3,766,764
855,019
Sponsorship Licensing
NOTE 3: CASH
Where the contract outcome cannot be reliably measured:
• revenue is recognised only to the extent that costs have been incurred.
Interest
Control of the right to receive the interest payment.
Sale of Goods
Control of the goods has passed to the buyer.
l.
Establishment Costs
Establishment costs associated with the setting up of a professional rugby team including salaries, support staff salaries, recruitment and team management expenses have been expensed in the statement of financial performance. m. Employee Benefits Provision is made for employee benefits accumulated as a result of employees rendering services up to the reporting date. These benefits include wages and salaries, annual leave and long service leave. Liabilities arising in respect of wages and salaries, annual leave and any other employee benefits expected to be settled within twelve months of the reporting date are measured at their nominal amounts based on remuneration rates which are expected to be paid when the liability is settled. All other employee benefit liabilities are measured at the present value of the estimated future cash outflow to be made in respect of services provided by employees up to the reporting date. In determining the present value of future cash outflows, the market yield as at the reporting date on national government bonds, which have terms to maturity approximating the terms of the related liability, are used.
Cash at bank Term deposits
NOTE 4: RECEIVABLES Trade debtors
472,663
86,775
8,049,702
733,450
8,522,365
820,225
367,291
73,631
Sundry debtors
34,881
-
402,172
73,631
NOTE 5: INVENTORIES
At cost
21,503
17,504
At net realisable value
37,259
-
58,762
17,504
NOTE 6: OTHER CURRENT ASSETS
Deferred costs
375,598
-
Prepayments
299,633
855
Other
15,498
-
690,729
855
Employee benefit expenses and revenues arising in respect of the following categories:
• wages and salaries, non-monetary benefits, annual leave, long service leave and other leave benefits; and
• other types of employee benefits are recognised against profits on a net basis in their respective categories.
60 l RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report
RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report l 61
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2005
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2005
2005
2004
2005
2004
$
$
$
$
NOTE 7: PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT Buildings – cost
NOTE 10: FINANCE LEASES 523,754
523,754
(523,754)
(457,474)
-
66,280
Leasehold improvements – cost
162,438
45,534
Less accumulated depreciation
(53,280)
(39,426)
109,158
6,108
Less accumulated depreciation
Finance lease - Current
82,002
-
Finance lease - Non Current
45,280
-
127,282
-
Plant and equipment – cost Less accumulated depreciation
479,511
163,279
(192,893)
(150,391)
286,618
12,888
212,523
154,288
(122,950)
(105,998)
89,573
48,290
NOTE 11: NON INTEREST BEARING LOAN
WA Government loan - Current
780,000
-
WA Government loan - Non current
720,000
-
1,500,000
-
The loan from the WA Government is interest free and is payable in instalments of $65,000 starting on 31 January 2005 with a final payment of $5,000 on 31 December 2007.
Furniture and fittings – cost Less accumulated depreciation
NOTE 12: PROVISIONS Employee entitlements - Current
115,019
45,875
Provision for Super 14 feasibility – Current
-
42,094
Provision for future ground expenditure - Current
-
50,000
Leased plant and equipment – cost
58,595
-
Employee entitlements - Non current
15,669
-
Less accumulated depreciation
(7,682)
-
130,688
137,969
50,913
-
NOTE 13: MEMBER’S FUNDS Motor vehicles
23,877
23,877
(17,525)
(15,264)
6,352
8,613
542,614
142,179
Less accumulated depreciation
NOTE 8: PAYABLES
a) Reserves Opening balance Transfer to retained profits Closing balance
936,001
1,108
Other payables
385,675
64,318
1,321,676
65,426
Opening balance Transfer from reserves Loss for the period Closing balance
(30,000)
-
-
30,000
816,640
819,171
30,000
-
(2,893,401)
(2,531)
(2,046,761)
816,640
Unearned membership revenue
5,712,719
-
Unearned corporate hospitality revenue
3,252,218
-
Unearned sponsorship revenue
218,820
-
9,183,757
-
62 l RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report
30,000
b) (Accumulated Losses)/ retained profits
Trade payables
NOTE 9: UNEARNED REVENUE
30,000
RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report l 63
STATEMENT BY MEMBERS OF THE BOARD
The board has determined that the Association is not a reporting entity and there is unlikely to exists users who are unable to command the preparation of reports tailored to satisfy specifically all of their information needs. The financial report has, however, been prepared in accordance with accounting standards and other professional reporting requirements, as set out in Note 1 to the financial statements. The directors declare that : 1. The financial statements and notes, as set out on pages 3 to 10 presents fairly the Association’s financial position as at 31 December 2005 and it’s performance for the 14 month period ended on that date in accordance with the accounting policies described in Note 1 to the financial statements; and 2. At the date of this statement, there are reasonable grounds to believe that Western Australian Rugby Union (Inc.) will be able to pay its debts as and when they fall due.
DETAILED INCOME AND EXPENDITURE STATEMENT FOR THE 14 MONTH PERIOD ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2005
2005
2004
$
$
INCOME Commercial Operations
Sponsorship
997,477
-
Licensing
120,609
-
Membership
167,454
-
Functions Total Commercial Operations Income
84,109
-
1,369,649
-
This declaration is made in accordance with a resolution of the Board and is signed for and on behalf of the Board by:
Chairman Geoffrey Stooke
Dated: 9 March 2006 Perth
Community Rugby
Grants received
875,640
470,969
Australian Rugby Shield
61,946
44,344
Club, team and player fees
40,616
42,540
Development tours
18,495
-
134,622
49,973
74,980
27,515
Sponsorship
142,844
219,678
Total Community Rugby Income
1,349,143
855,019
Other income Perry Lakes Complex revenue
Professional Rugby
Grants received
859,998
-
859,998
-
Total Professional Rugby
Corporate
Sundry revenue
5,000
-
Grants received
45,000
-
Interest received
137,974
-
187,974
-
3,766,764
855,019
Total Corporate Income TOTAL INCOME
64 l RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report
RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report l 65
DETAILED INCOME AND EXPENDITURE STATEMENT FOR THE 14 MONTH PERIOD ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2005
DETAILED INCOME AND EXPENDITURE STATEMENT FOR THE 14 MONTH PERIOD ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2005
2005
2004
2005
2004
$
$
$
$
EXPENDITURE
Community Rugby
Commercial Operations
Administration
49,553
50,447
Advertising
36,080
-
Australian Rugby Shield Matches
54,231
47,137
Accommodation and travel
49,742
-
Complex costs
69,615
-
144,329
-
Depreciation
-
99,614
67,473
-
Employee costs
774,418
435,473
4,608
-
General development
140,559
103,536
916
-
Grounds and facilities
11,700
12,483
14,203
-
Publicity and marketing
14,772
15,630
Employee costs
698,694
-
Function costs
23,531
14,210
Functions
161,026
-
Sponsorship costs
14,271
60,362
314
-
Support to affiliated bodies
6,800
18,658
Information technology
82,333
-
Total Community Rugby Expenditure
1,159,450
857,550
Legal
92,143
-
4,371
-
Professional Rugby
355,596
-
24,550
Other employment costs Photography
Brand development Consultants and shared services Courier services Commercial ticket allocations Entertainment
Gifts and donations
Coaching & support staff
27,753
-
-
Medical support
61,728
-
2,541
-
Player related costs
478,062
-
4,859
-
Professional rugby operations
415,419
-
45,670
-
Rugby analyst
25,736
-
960
-
Strength and conditioning
92,061
-
25,595
-
Team management
798,795
-
Publications and subscriptions
4,903
-
Rugby academy
60,373
-
Recruitment costs
4,250
-
Total Professional Rugby Expenditure
1,959,927
-
Sponsorship costs
56,180
-
891
-
15,700
-
1,897,927
-
Media monitoring Merchandising Motor vehicle costs
Printing, stationery and postage Professional development Public relations
Staff amenities and other functions Staff match day equipment Total Commercial Operations Expenditure
66 l RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report
RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report l 67
DETAILED INCOME AND EXPENDITURE STATEMENT FOR THE 14 MONTH PERIOD ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2005
2005
2004
$
$
Corporate Accommodation and travel Administration Audit and accounting fees Bank charges Board expenses
14,775
-
8,166
-
36,202
-
102,604
-
1,324
-
141,888
-
149,532
-
8,462
-
563,099
-
14,347
-
FBT
5,236
-
HP interest expense
4,247
-
Insurance
64,941
-
Legal and professional
55,473
-
Other employment costs
23,220
-
Other occupancy costs
60,452
-
Printing, stationery and postage
64,979
-
305
-
Recruitment costs
52,633
-
Rent and occupancy
46,685
-
Set up costs expended
40,030
-
4,288
-
112,763
-
Telephone and communications
50,020
-
Training and development
17,190
-
Total Corporate Expenditure
1,642,861
-
TOTAL EXPENDITURE
6,660,165
857,550
Consultants and shared services Depreciation Donations and gifts Employee costs Entertainment
Publications and subscriptions
Staff amenities Strategic planning costs
Net Loss from Ordinary Activities
(2,893,401)
(2,531)
Net Profit (Loss) from Commercial Operations
(528,278)
-
189,693
(2,531)
(1,099,929)
-
Net Profit (Loss) from Corporate
(1,454,887)
-
Net Loss from ordinary activities
(2,893,401)
(2,531)
Net Profit (Loss) from Community Rugby Net Profit (Loss) from Professional Rugby
Independent audit report To the members of the Western Australian Rugby Union (Inc.) Scope The financial report and the director’s responsibility The financial report is a special purpose financial report and comprises the statement of financial position, statement of financial performance and accompanying notes to the financial statements, and the directors declaration for Western Australian Rugby Union (Inc.) (“the Association”), for the 14 month period ended 31 December 2005. The directors are responsible for preparing a financial report that presents fairly the financial position and performance of the Association. This includes responsibility for the maintenance of adequate accounting records and internal controls that are designed to prevent and detect fraud and error, and for the accounting policies and accounting estimates inherent in the financial report. The directors have determined that the accounting policies used and described in Note 1 to the financial statements are consistent with the financial reporting requirements of the Association and are appropriate to meet the needs of the members. These policies do not require the application of all Accounting Standards and other mandatory financial reporting requirements in Australia. No opinion is expressed as to whether the accounting policies used and described in Note 1, are appropriate to the needs of the members. The financial report has been prepared for distribution to the members for the purpose of fulfilling the director’s financial reporting responsibilities. We disclaim any assumption of responsibility for any reliance on this report or on the financial report to which it relates to any person other than the members, or for any purpose other than that for which it was prepared. Audit approach We conducted an independent audit of the financial report in order to express an opinion on it to the members of the Association. Our audit was conducted in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards in order to provide reasonable assurance as to whether the financial report is free of material misstatement. The nature of an audit is influenced by factors such as the use of professional judgement, selective testing, the inherent limitations of internal control, and the availability of persuasive rather than conclusive evidence. Therefore, an audit cannot guarantee that all material misstatements have been detected. We performed procedures to assess whether in all material respects the financial report presents fairly, in accordance with the accounting policies in Note 1 to the financial statements, a view which is consistent with our understanding of the Association’s financial position, and of its performance as represented by the results of its operations. We formed our audit opinion on the basis of these procedures, which included: • examining, on a test basis, information to provide evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial report, and
15 68 l RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report
Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation.
•
assessing the appropriateness of the disclosures used and the reasonableness of significant accounting estimates made by the management of the Association.
While we considered the effectiveness of management’s internal controls over financial reporting when determining the nature and extent of our procedures, our audit was not designed to provide assurance on internal controls. We performed procedures to assess whether the substance of business transactions was accurately reflected in the financial report. These and our other procedures did not include consideration or judgement of the appropriateness or reasonableness of the business plans or strategies adopted by the directors. Independence We are independent of the Association, and have met the independence requirements of Australian professional ethical pronouncements. Audit opinion In our opinion, the financial report of the Western Australian Rugby Union (Inc.) presents fairly in accordance with the accounting policies described in Note 1 to the financial statements, the financial position of the Association as at 31 December 2005 and the results of its operations for the period then ended.
Ernst & Young
Perth 9 March 2006
Sponsor Acknowledgements RugbyWA acknowledges and sincerely thanks the following sponsors for their support and assistance during the 2005 season.
RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report l 73
RugbyWA acknowledges and sincerely thanks the following preferred suppliers
74 l RugbyWA 2005 Annual Report