SINCE 1910
Est. 2008
The Newcastle Coalfields Referees Association (NCRLRA) was formed in 2008.
It was a merger between the 2 major referee groups in the Newcastle/Lower Hunter/Upper Hunter/Maitland regions. The 2 associations that came together were the Newcastle District Rugby League Referees Association (NDRLRA) and the Maitland Rugby League Referees Association. This began a united approach and professional future for refereeing Rugby League in the Newcastle region.
2018 marked the 10th Anniversary of the NCRLRA. Newcastle referee associations have provided referees for Rugby League Matches since 14th May 1910.
We have a number of notable referees who have reached the pinnacle of the game.
HISTORICAL MILESTONES
- Souths v Wests - 14th May 1910
Referee: Mr. E Lees - Central v Norths - 14th May 1910
Referee: Mr. F Richardson
building our future in the hunter
The Newcastle Coalfields Rugby League Referees Association has a long and proud history borne of the merger of the Newcastle Referees and Maitland Referees in 2008. Rugby League refereeing has been present in the Newcastle and Hunter regions since the inception of the game in Australia.
We provide referees to the Newcastle/Hunter and Maitland competitions from the Junior game (from u/8's) to the premier regional rugby league senior competitions - the Newcastle Hunter Community Rugby League and the Newcastle Rugby League.
We welcome all referees to the Newcastle area and continue to strive to provide excellent match officials to our local competitions, the National Rugby League and international competitions.
members who made the n.r.l
- Paul Simpkins #6
- John Taylor #66
- Gavin West #111
- Nick Beashel #117
- Drew Oultram #148
- Ben Teague #160
historic milestones
Referee Resources
Registration Guide
All you need to know to register and be part of the Association
2026 Calendar
Weekly training, Bi-Monthly Meetings, Social Events & End of Season Celebrations
SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS
We gratefully acknowledge the support of our local partners who help the Newcastle Coalfields Referees Association. Please support them where you can.
Major Sponsor: Total Tools Warners Bay, Sandgate & Rutherford
Contact the Association
The Newcastle Coalfields Referees Association is here to support local rugby league officials. Get in touch for enquiries regarding becoming a referee, sponsoring the association or any match officiating enquiries.