Rugby League museum set to open

In order to commemorate all of the colourful rugby league events in Australia of years past, the ARLC have today unveiled a rugby league museum, with doors officially opened.

The memorabilia at the museum goes some way back, with items such as Dally Messenger’s cap, the first ever Premiership trophy, some of the most famous and iconic jerseys that the game has ever seen, as well as tributes to those players in the Hall Of Fame, the Team of the Century and the Immortals.

“We are very proud to be here today unveiling what we hope can be considered one of the greatest archives of our game’s brilliant history,” ARLC Chairman, Mr John Grant, said.

“The artefacts that occupy this beautiful space have taken over 100 years to collect and have been painstakingly put together. I’d like to thank all the club members, current and former players and their families who have contributed to this wonderful display.”

The museum will also house a ‘Heroes and Legends’ exhibition, that takes illustrates how rugby league has developed in the country from the early years to now, in a visual, chronological fashion.

“It was our intention in creating the Museum to leave a legacy of Rugby League’s Centenary Celebrations,” ARLC Interim Chief Executive, Mr Shane Mattiske said.

“The Rugby League Museum allows us to share with the Australian public a collection which honours the game’s long and colourful history.

“It will enable us to tell stories about the pivotal moments and the people who have contributed towards the making of the game as it stands today.

“It also provides a focal point for visitors to the Moore Park-SCG precinct in Sydney and acts as a tremendous resource for the further academic study of the game.”

It is former Panthers prop Frank Puletua, who is also the Museum manager, who has collected all the memorabilia that will be on display at the museum.

“The Rugby League Museum will initially be open two days a week from Wednesday 6 September from 11:00am – 2:00pm with free admission,” Puletua said.

“We are working with the Men of League who will help conduct the tours allowing people to embrace this amazing collection, share the timeless stories and recognise the men and women who serviced and played the great game of Rugby League.”