Why The Success?

It's the same story every year - exhausted workers sit down at the end of the Dubbo carnival, ask the President for a few cartons (and one bottle of red for a long-standing treasurer who shall remain nameless), and all are pleased with what's been accomplished.

Certainly, the juniors have been fortunate by being in the right place at the right time. Events of the last decade that have had a positive influence include:

• A.R.U. Junior Pathway Program - modified rules for players to progress through skills attainment.
• NSW appointment of Development Officers and an organised approach to coaching, refereeing and code of conduct.
• Australia's win in the World Cup, followed by appearances on presentation days by Campese, Roebuck, Gavin etc. certainly boosted our profile and junior registrations.
• The demise of Rugby League/ Super League is often quoted as giving us a boost. In reality it had little effect.
• The initial support of Dubbo Seniors in buying us a set of jumpers and use of equipment and facilities and ongoing encouragement has been beneficial.
• An original, systematic approach to cultivating our 'image' was essential. Such things as parental behaviour on sidelines, media reports, written policies on medical procedures, qualified coaching staff, sound financial management etc. have all played their part.

All these (and other) factors have been beneficial. Yet, for all their worth, we believe it is the efforts of the workers at a grass roots level that is primarily responsible for the success we enjoy today. Those workers don't want to be named here, but in addition to all those who:

• wash the jumpers; pay the regos; pay for the bus trips,
• assist at training, attend AGM's and Presentation Days,
• supply billets, answer the call for carnival days and canteens,
• provide sponsorships, and referee and give medical equipment and bus driving time.

The following should be noted as making particularly valuable contributions:

• Tim Koerstz Pharmacy, Kee Finance and Neil O`Connor Constructions have all sponsored teams since the clubs inception.
• Clubmen of the year winners - Graham Commins, Barry Toole, Frank Newman and Neil Burns.
• Richard Noss and Barry Toole whose political work as presidents of Central West leaves a legacy of the current strength of the Zone Competition.
• Paul Coles` tireless promotion, especially the pre- teenager divisions.
• And especially Kerry Commins whose behind the scene contribution as treasurer to canteen management, to delivery of boys to various events, to massaging referees with cramp are without peer.

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