They’ve made significant changes on and off the field and will compete in all four grades in 2019, after a year where they were absent from first grade rugby league.

The new look committee, spearheaded by president Trent Matthews, and coaching staff headed by Daniel Tempest, were Magpies Juniors and are well aware of the proud history this club has in the area.

The theme for the rebuild has been ‘Bring them Home’, referring to the high volume of players and supporters who, for a variety of reasons, have moved in a different direction.

“It’s time to bring them home; the club is building as per schedule,” Trent Matthews said.

“Players, supporters and the wider community can rest assured that the new era of Bellingen-Dorrigo rugby league is alive and well.”

Trent and his fellow committee members recognise that in order to move forward, the club must acknowledge the tireless work of the previous longstanding committee members.

“We assure the public that the Glydes and Oslands will continue to be an important part of the club,” Trent said.

Trent cited the appointment of former local junior Daniel Tempest as Head Coach as a prime example of “bringing them home”.

“Daniel grew up in the Bellingen Valley and won a senior title with the club in 2004 and he knows the importance of having the Bellingen club strong on the field for not only the area but the Group 2 competition.

“Having Daniel leading, the club’s supporters can expect the playing group to be fit and firing come round 1.

“The Magpies will compete in all four grades in 2019 with the foundations for senior rugby league assembled throughout the 2018 season.

“The club’s ability to have recruitment of players a luxury rather than a necessity will prove to be a catalyst for success.”

The final piece of the puzzle will be to finalise the coaching staff for the very successful Ladies League Tag Team.

Season 2019 is shaping up as a big year for the Magpies.

For the annual Sgt Matthew Locke Charity Game to be played on February 23, discussions are being held with a prominent broadcaster to showcase this event.

This coming season also marks 20 years since the last 1st grade premiership for the Magpies and the club intends to celebrate this milestone.

Peter Denham has been tasked with the job of orchestrating the reunion of players and supporters set down for June 2019.

If this is not enough to entice the crowds to flock to the Graveyard in 2019, the Magpies will utilise one of their home games to raise much needed funds for the LIVIN charity who work with mental health sufferers from the community.

With social membership proving to be a successful venture in 2018, this will continue into the 2019 season with supporters’ gear, free home game entry and other benefits included in the $60 fee.

The club encourages those interested to get in contact with them via Facebook, email or phone.

Likewise if there are any sponsors and/or business that would like to get involved, please don’t hesitate to contact the club president on 0403546154 or email the club at Bellingensrlfc@gmail.com or visit the Facebook page Bellingen Valley/Dorrigo Rugby League Football Club.

With a pre-Christmas get together and training session planned and pre-season kicking off in January, the message from the coaching staff is to enjoy the Christmas festivities because come January 8, it’s full-scale preparations for the upcoming season.

Related: History made at Magpies Presentation Night 2018