The Illawarra Rugby League officially kicked off the 2025 season on Thursday evening — celebrating its re-entry into the NSWRL’s Major Competitions tier with a highly entertaining season opener between defending premiers Wests and Collegians, with Collies scoring in the 79th minute to steal a 28-26 victory over the defending premiers.
It’s a welcome return to the spotlight for one of the proudest rugby league regions in New South Wales, backed by thriving partitipation numbers with 4,655 registered players, including 2,908 males and 1,747 females.
Illawarra’s re-entry into the state’s top competitive tier signals more than just progress—it represents a full-circle moment for a region that has long punched above its weight in rugby league.
This year’s Harrigan Cup features a balance of up-and-coming juniors and seasoned players returning home. Clubs have managed to retain their best talent and welcome back players with experience at higher levels of the game.
Angelina Raula caught up with new recruits, Dapto’s Thomas Freebairn and Thirroul centre Elijah Coles, at the season launch on Thursday ahead of their respective Round One games on Saturday.
Dapto v Corrimal
Dapto lock Thomas Freebairn has returned to his junior club after playing at higher levels for over a decade.
“It’s my first time back at the club full-time since I was a young fella,” Freebairn said.
“There’s been a big focus on retention. Juniors who left have come back, and they’re a bit older now.
“It’s a good mix—we’ve got experience and youth, and we’re hoping to build something special.”
“It’s exciting. Rugby league in the Illawarra is about to kick off, and it’s always a really good time. I just can’t wait to see where we stand.”
“Hopefully, I can give a couple of juniors opportunities and help them develop,” he said.
“I had really good mentors, so I’d love to do the same and pass on some experience, even if it’s just one percent of what I know, to help someone on their journey.”
Match Centre
Thirroul v De La Salle
Thirroul Butchers recruit Elijah Coles, who joined the club late last year after moving to Wollongong from Wagga, said the welcome he received at his new club was immediate.
“They were just so open and welcoming. They’ve made everyone feel like family,” Coles said.
“There’s a great atmosphere around the club.”
Having just begun his time with the team, Coles is already optimistic about the group’s direction.
“We feel confident. Strong. We’ve had minimal injuries during pre-season, which is a big plus,” Coles said.
“We’ve just been working hard and focusing on sticking together and building a strong club.”
Match Centre
Canaries concentrating on the ‘one percenters’
Freebairn says the club has honed in on the little things: effort, discipline, and consistency in the pre-season.
“Every little win matters—whether it’s in a tackle, a full set, or across the full 80 minutes,” Freebairn said.
“We’re trying to build from that mindset and see how we go in Round One.”
Coles echoed a similar theme at Thirroul.
“We’re keeping it simple,” he said.
“Using the talent we’ve got, working hard, and trying to make our club something strong. Everyone’s putting their hand up and contending to be one of the best.”
Eyes on the Future
As the 2025 season kicks off, there’s a strong sense that this is just the beginning of a new chapter for Illawarra Rugby League.
With a thriving junior base, supportive club environments, and a return to the Major Competitions tier, the region is ready to make a statement—on and off the field.
“Winning is a big one, of course,” said Freebairn.
“But I think helping develop those juniors and giving them the shot to play first grade and go even further—that’s what it’s all about.”