UPDATE: The Melton Rugby Union Club is celebrating its 50th anniversary with a grand event that highlights its rich history and community impact. On Saturday, October 14, 2023, past, present, and future players gathered for a milestone game, marking half a century of rugby in Melton.
Festivities kicked off with exciting under-14, under-16, and under-18 games, showcasing young talent and the next generation of players. Later, the men’s and masters teams took to the field, adding to the day’s excitement.
President Harry Sheehan expressed the significance of the day, stating, “Fifty years is a long time. We started off with just seniors only, and now we’ve had juniors for the past 10 years.” The club has transformed from its humble beginnings in a paddock at Macpherson Park to a dedicated venue in Melton, serving as a hub for local rugby enthusiasts.
Founded in 1975 by a group of local rugby enthusiasts, the Melton Rugby Union Club has witnessed remarkable growth. Early matches were played in Diggers Rest and Melton South, where it was initially known as the Melton Rugby Club. The club achieved significant milestones in the 1980s, becoming runners-up in 1982 and winning the premiership in 1984, followed by another championship in 1985.
After experiencing a closure in 2015, dedicated efforts led to the club’s revival in 2016, with the senior side making a grand final appearance shortly thereafter. Recent successes include winning the Victorian premiership in 2024 against Brimbank.
Sheehan emphasized the importance of community support, stating, “Developing juniors for the club over the last 10 years has been really special. We need a lot more support in the local areas.” The club also celebrated female participation through the Western Districts women’s side, further solidifying its commitment to inclusivity.
While the senior men’s team faced a tough challenge on Saturday, losing to Brimbank 48-42, they remain in a strong position, currently sitting third on the ladder. They will conclude the regular season against Geelong next weekend.
As the Melton Rugby Union Club celebrates this historic milestone, the excitement for the future is palpable. With continued growth and community involvement, the next chapter promises to be just as thrilling as the last fifty years. Fans and supporters are encouraged to rally behind their teams as the club looks forward to many more years of rugby excellence.
Stay tuned for more updates as the Melton Rugby Union Club continues to build on its legacy.
