NELSON BAY RUGBY

The Nelson Bay Mighty Grey Gropers had their first match in 1986 against the Paramatta Paraletics at Bill Strong Oval. This match was repeated in 1987, but lapsed in 1988. In 1989 the club reformed in its present state, had its first Gala Day in 1990 and played its first away game in 1991 against the Central Coast Blowflies and the Warringah Wrinkled Rats from Sydney.

 

In 1991 the club sent its first players to the World Golden Oldies when John Clarke and John Edmonds went to Perth for the Festival. Since then, the Mighty Grey Gropers have toured to 10 World Golden Oldie Festivals: Christchurch in 1995; Vancouver, 1997; Adelaide, 1999; Brisbane, 2003; Wellington, 2006; Sydney 2010; Fukuoka 2012; Mar del Plata 2014; Cardiff 2016; and Christchurch 2018. In addition, the Cook Islands Mini-Festival was launched with the participation of the Grey Gropers and Maitland Old Bones in 2001.

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Nelson Bay Grey Gropers sponsor the Nelson Bay Junior Rugby Club Under 8’s – we are their shirt sponsor.

 

Nelson Bay Grey Gropers provide bar service for the Nelson Bay Rugby Club as our contribution to the running of the rugby club (6 home games at Bill Strong Oval in 2018) – come and help Ken and Ray out on Saturdays.

 

Nelson Bay Grey Gropers earn their money by working for the Newcastle and Hunter Rugby Union at Finals time – come and help us out.