Local rugby teams in the under-11s and 12s age group will have a chance to win the Kookaburra Cup for the first time at the upcoming Australian Rail and Track Corporation Gala Carnival, taking place in Armidale on 7 September.

The final gala day of the season in the Central North Junior Rugby Union competition, Armidale Junior Rugby Union (AJRU) secretary Claire Percival said it will be a fantastic day for families across the region to come together.

“We are thrilled to host this event at The Armidale School and will have teams from Coffs Harbour and Port Macquarie make the journey up the mountain to take part on the day,” Percival said.

“Games will kick off from 9am across the under-7s and 8s, under-9s and 10s and under-11s and 12s age groups. A special under-6s development session encourages our youngest stars to develop a love of rugby and gain the foundational skills required for the game.”

“Armidale Junior Rugby Union has a dedicated community of volunteers who will be manning the BBQ and canteen for the day. A wide selection of home-baked goods and our signature lamb and gravy rolls will be available all day, with thanks to our local sponsors and families.”

With the event taking place on Father’s Day, AJRU volunteer, coach and dad of three Bruce Dennison, who played for the Blues, said it will be great to combine his many loves in life.

“As the boys grew up and wanted to play, I took my coaching skill set to assist with their teams. My main focus was on participation and getting kids on the field and having a go.”

“Being a part of the side is more than just the kids playing in a team sport and learning life lessons. We have a supportive community and have built some strong friendships that will last a lifetime.”

“We have a strong club and everyone pitches in and volunteers their time and energy in one form or another. We feel privileged to be a part of the club.”

Percival said this season has been good for her club.

“AJRU has seen an increase in registrations this year across all age groups and we hope to build on this for 2026.”

“For the first time, AJRU has had representation with the girls’ under-14s, under-16s and under-18s age divisions.”

“We have also had a large number of players represent Armidale at the various state championships for Central North this year. The dedication, sportsmanship and talent our local region has on offer is truly remarkable.”

The year by no means ends after the gala day. Percival said trials for boys and girls to play for New England Junior Rugby Union in a range of age groups at the upcoming rugby 7s state championships will begin ‘shortly’.

“AJRU will also be holding a summer rugby 7s competition in early 2026, so keep an eye out for that as we get closer,” according to Percival.

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