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Opinion
It is a little known fact that the sport of rugby union was first played in Tasmania in the city of Launceston. It was a three-team competition that commenced in 1928.
Rugby union did not commence in Hobart until 1933.
Why is that important, you ask?
Well, it isn’t in the scheme of things, except for the fact that on August 28, 2021, the Tasmanian Rugby Union (TRU) first grade final will be played in Launceston, much to the chagrin of the power-brokers of the TRU who believe the grand final should always be played in Hobart.
But, this year, logically, it cannot. And that’s for the simple reason that the last three clubs standing are from north and north-west Tasmania.
These are the Burnie Emus, Devonport Bulls and the Launceston Tigers. The Tigers are already through to the grand final, so it’s a north-west derby next week to see who they play in the biggest game of the year.
Rugby in Tasmania is a small sport. It is played by less than 600 adults, male and female.
Men’s rugby has two senior grades playing statewide. The women have a six-team statewide sevens comp.
Rugby in Tasmania may not be pretty, but it’s fierce and it’s hard and the players love it.
Participation has actually increased over the past two years and that growth is due to the pure bloody mindedness of the north and north-western clubs who have survived against all odds.
When I think of Burnie rugby, I think of Brent Bentley and Crusty Kershaw.
Devonport, it’s Mark Meo and Derik Joubert.
Launceston – Isaac Anderson and Ray Burgess.
The rugby community in this state owes these rugby warriors and their associates a debt of gratitude for the fact the code still exists in Tasmania.
Burnie, in particular, have faced almost 30 years of angst and could have folded at any time during that period. They have been the recipients of endless thrashings. But the club refused to die. Now, they are one game off playing in the big gig.
Launceston’s revival is a huge story. Four years ago, they couldn’t field a team some weeks.
Come 2021 and they have over 70 players, have already won the second grade grand final and now have a potential first grade trophy staring them in the face.
Devonport, in comparison, have been a beacon for rugby north of Oatlands. They are competitive every year and are a proud member of the Devonport community.
But it’s Royal Park Launceston on the 28th of August where blood will be spilt, tackles will crunch, scrums will pack and the victors will take the spoils.
So, it is up to Launceston I go on August 28 to watch a grand final to remember. A grand final where the Northerners give the TRU the big middle finger and turn on a day to be remembered for all time in Tasmanian rugby annals.
And I have never been more excited to attend a rugby event in my life, because this truly is special.
So, when the sun comes down on this fateful day, it will be time for a few quiet beers and also time to reflect on the beauty of the game they play in heaven.
Tigers, Emus and Bulls. May you live and thrive forever.
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.