Maitland Rugby Club signs partnership agreement with Maitland City Council

Maitland Rugby Club has signed a 3-year partnership agreement with Maitland City Council for the ongoing maintenance, access and shared responsibilities at Marcellin Park and associated facilities. 

The agreement paves the way for a strong and respectful working relationship between the two parties – one that drives sustainable improvements to the site and the city and maintains high-quality turf and playing conditions for the Rugby Club.

Since 1877, the club has been one of a supportive, family-first culture and now boasts great facilities across 7.284 hectares, a thriving netball club, and welcomes over 100,000 visitors each year. Since 2023, the club has been named Hunter Rugby Club of the Year.

With three full-sized playing fields and three under 7’s fields, the agreement outlines Council’s in-kind support to the club with turf management, including resourcing labour and machinery for maintenance works such as soil testing, ryegrass application, aerating, weed control and fertilising programs. 

Club President Pat Howard said, “We’re thrilled to have Council’s support and expertise with our grounds. This partnership helps us improve our playing surface for our 650+ juniors and 200+ seniors, reduces pressure on our volunteers, and strengthens our chance of hosting future rugby tournaments that in turn will bring valuable funds into Maitland.”

Maitland City Council General Manager Jeff Smith said, “It’s an honour to be officially supporting the Mighty Blacks in this way and acknowledge the unmatched energy they bring to our community.”

“Last year during the off-season we assisted the Club by subsidising their plans for turf upgrades and we’re pleased to build on this success and formalise a longer-term partnership,” said Mr Smith. 

Supporting four-year-old boys and girls to adult men and women, the club brings energy, spirit and an insatiable appetite for getting the job done on the field.

To become a Maitland Rugby Club member or find out more about the club, visit maitlandrugbyclub.com.au