BREAKING: The Melton Rugby Union Club celebrated a monumental 50 years on Saturday, July 15, 2023, with a day packed full of exciting matches and festivities. Players from past, present, and future gathered for a milestone game that highlighted the club’s rich history and promising future.
The celebration kicked off with thrilling under-14, under-16, and under-18 games, showcasing the talent and spirit of young athletes. Later, the men’s and masters teams took to the field, drawing excitement from the large crowd. Club President Harry Sheehan emphasized the significance of this anniversary, stating, “Fifty years is a long time. We started off with just seniors only, and we’ve now had juniors for the past 10 years.”
Founded in 1975 by local rugby enthusiasts from Melton and Sunbury, the Melton Rugby Union Club is one of the oldest clubs in the region. Early matches were played in Diggers Rest and Melton South, but the club has since blossomed. Sheehan noted, “We’ve come a long way from a paddock at Macpherson Park to our own venue in Melton.”
Historically, the club has seen significant achievements, including runner-up finishes in the 1980s and senior premierships in 2011 and 2013. After a brief closure in 2015, dedicated efforts from the community revived the club, leading to a grand final appearance in 2016. The women’s team has also made its mark as part of the Western Districts side, promoting inclusivity in the sport.
Most recently, the club clinched the Victorian premiership in 2024 by defeating Brimbank. Sheehan expressed optimism for the club’s future, stating, “The ground and club room took 50 years to get, and that is one of the big achievements. Developing juniors over the last 10 years has also been really special. We need a lot more support in the local areas.”
On the field during the celebration, the under-16s secured the minor premiership, while the under-18s are in a fierce battle for finals contention. The senior men faced a tough challenge against Brimbank, losing 48-42, but they remain competitive, sitting third on the ladder with a final regular-season match against Geelong coming up.
As the day concluded, Sheehan reflected on the joy of reuniting with past players and committee members, emphasizing the club’s deep-rooted community ties. The event not only celebrated the past but also highlighted a bright future for the Melton Rugby Union Club, making this an unforgettable day for all involved.
Stay tuned for further updates on the club’s journey and upcoming matches as they continue to build on their legacy.
