Group 1 Rugby League is a premier regional rugby league competition based in the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales, Australia. Currently operating within the NRRRL (Northern Rivers Regional Rugby League) structure, it serves as the heartbeat of country footy for local communities.
If you are looking for the verified 2026 draw, team lists, and match-day venues, this is the most comprehensive guide to the season.
Please Note: This page covers the highly anticipated Senior fixtures and results (currently operating under the NRRRL structure, but traditionally known by fans as Group 1). If you are looking for the children’s and youth categories, those are managed independently by the Group 1 Junior Rugby League.
What is Group 1 Northern Rivers Rugby League?
The Group 1 (Northern Rivers) competition is steeped in history, representing a territory that stretches from the Tweed border down to the Clarence Valley. While the senior competition is managed under the NRRRL Seniors banner, the “Group 1” identity remains a powerful symbol for both junior development and regional pride.
This competition is a vital feeder system for the NSW Cup and, ultimately, the NRL, showcasing the raw talent and grit of Northern Rivers athletes.
Group 1 Northern Rivers NRRRL 2026
The following fixtures are transcribed directly from the official 2026 season release. Please check local club social media for late kick-off changes due to weather.
NRRRL Group 1 Ladder: 2026 First Grade Standings
| Pos | Club | P | W | D | L | B | PD | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Murwillumbah Mustangs | 12 | 9 | 2 | 1 | 0 | +207 | 20 |
| 2 | Marist Brothers Rams | 13 | 10 | 0 | 3 | 0 | +146 | 20 |
| 3 | Tweed Heads Seagulls | 12 | 8 | 1 | 3 | 0 | +112 | 17 |
| 4 | Lower Clarence Magpies | 13 | 8 | 0 | 5 | 0 | +144 | 16 |
| 5 | Cudgen Hornets | 14 | 6 | 4 | 4 | 0 | +44 | 16 |
| 6 | Mullumbimby Giants | 13 | 6 | 4 | 3 | 0 | +24 | 16 |
| 7 | Casino RSM Cougars | 9 | 6 | 2 | 1 | 0 | +118 | 14 |
| 8 | Ballina Seagulls | 12 | 6 | 0 | 6 | 0 | +74 | 12 |
| 9 | Bilambil Jets | 9 | 4 | 1 | 4 | 0 | +40 | 9 |
| 10 | Evans Head Bombers | 8 | 1 | 3 | 4 | 0 | -62 | 5 |
| 11 | Kyogle Turkeys | 11 | 1 | 3 | 7 | 0 | -152 | 5 |
| 12 | Tweed Coast Raiders | 9 | 1 | 0 | 8 | 0 | -109 | 2 |
| 13 | Northern United Dirawongs | 9 | 1 | 0 | 8 | 0 | -250 | 2 |
| 14 | Byron Bay Red Devils | 12 | 0 | 0 | 12 | 0 | -320 | 0 |
Meet the 2026 NRRRL Group 1 Footy Clubs
Frequently Asked Questions
Group 1 Rugby League is located in the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales (NSW), Australia. It is a premier regional competition under the NRRRL.
The professional level is the NRL. Below that are state-based competitions like the NSW Cup and Queensland Cup, followed by regional leagues such as Group 1, Group 2, and Group 3.
These are different geographical zones of the New South Wales Country Rugby League. Group 1 covers the Northern Rivers, while Group 2 and Group 3 cover the Mid North Coast and surrounding areas.
Final Take
The Group 1 (Northern Rivers) 2026 season is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in recent memory. With a structured draw and a high standard across all grades, it remains a pillar of Australian country rugby league. Stay tuned for weekly updates as the road to the Grand Final begins.
