While Bourke is a prominent Western Plains rugby union town, rugby league has been part of the Darling River community’s sporting agenda since the Group 15 era.

A number of outstanding footballers from Bourke including Country hooker Darren Jackson, have previously turned out in Cobar colours and helped secure a Group 11 premiership for the Roosters.

Recently elected Rooster’s secretary Michael Hart believes Cobar can, once again, be a strong force in Group 11 with the signing of key players from Bourke.

“Last Sunday we held a very positive meeting at the Oxford Hotel in Bourke and believe we can now come to an arrangement, which will benefit both Cobar and Bourke, and ensure rugby league will again be a force in Group 11,” Michael Hart reported.

“Our goal is to grow rugby league in western NSW and Sunday’s meeting was an important first step in achieving that aim.”

Michael Hart said key points from the meeting included having Bourke supporter Steve Howarth prepare a list of players interested in signing with the Roosters and begin initial planning for a pre-season trial match in Bourke.

“We are looking to have a trial match in Bourke of Cobar players versus Bourke players,” Michael reported.

“This match would be used to grade players from both towns and would be used to pick sides to play in trial matches against Group 14.

“The Under 18’s will also play with a Group 11 selector present who will spot players with the ability for representative sides.

“Steve Howarth will approach Bourke Council and other community groups to organise support for this event.

“Currently in Bourke Junior Rugby League finishes at the Under 17 level so Cobar is looking to step in and give players an opportunity to continue their football.”