The clubs involved in the Tooheys New Shute Shield and NSW Premiership Rugby have committed to investigating opportunities to take more responsibility for the competitions they are involved in.

With the blessing of the ARU and NSWRU, the NSW Premier Clubs are looking at options which will allow them to take a more active role in decisions regarding Premier Rugby, including Grade and Colts competitions.

NSWRU Chief Executive Officer Jim L’Estrange has backed the clubs’ move which would bring the NSW Premier Clubs into line with all other affiliated bodies and allow greater efficiency in decision-making processes.

“This will mean decisions which used to be referred to the NSWRU Board in regards to their competition would now be handled by the clubs themselves,” said Mr L’Estrange. “The Premiership Clubs would come into line with our other affiliate bodies to take a more active role in the conduct of their competitions.

“Rolling over the details of the MOU [memorandum of understanding] to 2009 also ensures the 12 clubs involved this year will continue to be a part of the competition, so the fundamentals do not change.

“Premier Rugby funding, which is provided by the ARU via the NSWRU, will continue. NSW Rugby staff will also still be responsible for day-to-day operations such as competition management, results, draws, media, sponsorship and the judiciary.“

With the endorsement of NSW Rugby, the NSW Premier Clubs have also applied for dual affiliation with the Australian Rugby Union. However, this has yet to be considered by the ARU Board and cannot be voted on until the ARU Annual General Meeting next year.

“NSW Country Rugby Union is an example of a body which has affiliations both with its state and the ARU,” said Matt Carroll, ARU Deputy CEO.

“We fully support NSW Rugby in their decision to allow the NSW Premier Clubs’ decision to take a more active role in their competitions and look forward to discussing their plans for the future. ARU management has given them a favourable reception and intends to make a positive recommendation to the Board.“

On the back of the most successful season in many years, the Premier Clubs will now commence work to develop a governance model which is representative of all clubs.

---