Reef Raiders to celebrate 25 brilliant years with feast of activities

SPECIAL WEEKEND

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The mighty Reef Raiders Rugby Club will hold its 25 year anniversary this weekend. All pictures: Reef Raiders

Port Douglas will enjoy an influx of former Reef Raiders players when the mighty Port Douglas Rugby Club celebrates its 25th anniversary from today and throughout the weekend.

The 25-year anniversary reunion festivities include a golf day, golden oldies and A-Grade rugby matches.

Established in 2000, the club has come a long way since operating out of a caravan overlooking the playing field.

With the dedication of committee members and players throughout the years as well as financial support from generous Douglas Shire businesses, the Port Douglas Rugby Club now boasts arguably the best rugby facilities in FNQ.

The playing field and lights were constructed in 2004, a new clubhouse was built in 2010, with change rooms added in 2015. An undercover outdoor area and grandstand was completed in 2022 and a full interior renovation of the clubhouse took place earlier this year.

“Looking back at old photos and hearing stories of the early days, it’s quite incredible how far this club has come on the back of club members volunteering their time to create what we have today," Club president Travis Gooch told Newsport.

On the field, the Port Douglas Rugby Club has managed to win three premierships in its short history - 2008, 2014 and 2020.

Historically, the club has had many international players who have travelled from different parts of the world to work and play rugby in Port Douglas which has given the club a rich culture.

“We look forward to seeing many of these players back in Port Douglas this weekend. We have been blown away by the number of former players travelling to attend the reunion from New Zealand, the UK, Europe and South America," Mr Gooch said.

The reunion will get underway today with a golf day at the Sheraton Mirage. Saturday will begin at 2:30pm with a Golden Oldies game followed by the A-grade match against JCU at 4pm.

“Some former players will be lacing up the boots for the first time in many years for the Golden Oldies match, which should be a great spectacle," he said.

Post match reunion celebrations will include a live band, BBQ, presentations, and the announcement of the 25-year anniversary team.

“We encourage all past and present supporters to come along to what is shaping up to be a great day celebrating Port Douglas Rugby Union," he said.

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