About Us

Rugby union in Tasmania traces its organised beginnings to 1933, when a group of enthusiasts in Launceston established the first rugby club and began playing matches that would lay the foundations for the game in the state. Interest grew quickly, with the sport spreading south to Hobart where university students and local players formed teams and organised fixtures. Within months, the first North versus South representative match was held, signalling the emergence of a structured rugby community and the establishment of what would become the Tasmanian Rugby Union.

Through the following decades rugby gradually carved out its place within Tasmania’s sporting landscape. Early clubs such as Hobart Harlequins and university teams helped build a competitive club environment, while touring sides from mainland Australia and visiting naval teams provided strong opposition and helped raise the profile of the game. Despite operating in a state where Australian rules football dominated participation and attention, rugby union continued to grow through the dedication of volunteers, clubs and players committed to the sport.

As the game developed, the Tasmanian Rugby Union became the recognised governing body responsible for overseeing competitions, representative teams and development programs across the state. Working within the national rugby framework, the Union has played an important role in connecting Tasmanian players and officials to pathways that extend to the Australian rugby system while maintaining strong local club competitions.

Today the Tasmanian Rugby Union continues to guide the growth of the game from its home at Rugby Park in Hobart. With thriving club competitions, expanding junior programs and increasing opportunities for women and girls to participate, rugby in Tasmania is built on more than ninety years of community effort and passion. That history continues to shape the Union’s focus on strengthening clubs, supporting volunteers and ensuring the long term future of rugby across the state.

Mr Ron Bessell

Mr Mark Oakford

Mr Greg Sawyer

Mr Phillip Fraser

Mr Andrew Webber

Mr Collin Debnam

Mr Greg Hill

Mr Richard Onn

Mr John Bellette

Mr John Smith

Mr R G (Dick) Baker (dec)

Mr George Debnam (dec)

Mr F P (Peter) Fraser (dec)

Mr J G (Graham) Lovatt (dec)

Mr R McCulloch (dec)

Mr Keith McLoughlin (Unknown)

Mr Keith Spooner (dec)

Mr Neville West (dec)

Mr R White (dec)

Mr George Wilson (dec)

Mr Garth Norman (dec)