During the second week of the recent school holidays, a squad of 30 players and three staff ventured north to compete in the annual Gold Coast Rugby Carnival. This is a festival of rugby that includes teams from both Australia and New Zealand and competitors in age groups from Under 12 to Under 18. The format of the week involved Round Robin fixtures within age divisions and then a play-off to determine placings at the end of the week. Newington fielded Two teams in Two Under 13 divisions with the first team finishing third behind a very strong Parramatta representative team, and the second team finishing fourth behind Paikea JRC from New Zealand.

The week was not all about rugby. Boys spent the off-days competing in a beach sport challenge and visiting the various theme parks the Gold Coast has to offer; spending time at Sea World, Movieworld and Wet and Wild. There was also time to take in the Australian Outback Spectacular on the final night. This was an enjoyable week of rugby and much more. Thanks to Mr Manion for his organisation and Messrs Nowlan, Egerton and Cook for their driving of buses and supervision. Thanks also to the parents who travelled north for their support.

Bob Egerton
Rugby Coach/Science Teacher