Welcome to the beating heart of rugby league in the Hunter Valley, New South Wales. The Group 21 Rugby League 2026 season has arrived, bringing with it the grit, passion, and community spirit that defines regional footy. Whether you are heading down to Pirtek Park for a Saturday afternoon clash or tracking the ladder from afar, this guide is your ultimate resource for the 2026 season.
The Group 21 competition is more than just a league; it is a cornerstone of regional Australian sport, where local rivalries between towns like Scone, Singleton, and Aberdeen have been forged over decades of elite competition.
What is Group 21 Rugby League? (History & Location)
Where is Group 21 Rugby League located? The competition is firmly rooted in the Upper Hunter Valley region of NSW. It encompasses a proud geographical footprint that includes the key rugby league heartlands of Singleton, Scone, Aberdeen, and Muswellbrook.
Founded in the mid-20th century, Group 21 is one of the most prestigious regional leagues under the NSWRL (New South Wales Rugby League) umbrella. The 2026 season is particularly historic as it marks the 80th Anniversary season for the Singleton Greyhounds (1947–2026), a testament to the enduring legacy of the sport in the valley. Under the official sponsorship of Tooheys Newcastle & Hunter Rugby League, the competition continues to thrive as a premier pathway for country players.
Group 21 Teams and Clubs in 2026
The 2026 line-up features a powerhouse selection of clubs, each bringing their own unique history and “home ground advantage” to the table.
First Grade
The pinnacle of regional footy. Fast-paced, heavy-hitting, and highly tactical competition for the region’s elite.
Reserve Grade
The “backbone of the club,” where experienced veterans and emerging stars fight for a spot in the top tier.
Under 18s
The breeding ground for future NRL talent. Where the journey of the Hunter Valley stars begins.
Women’s Tackle
Showcasing the incredible growth and skill of the women’s game. Intense, elite, and highly competitive.
Ladies League Tag
A high-skill, non-contact fan favourite. Speed and agility that kicks off every match-day with excitement.
Group 21 Rugby League 2026 Draw and Venues
The 2026 season schedule is designed to maximise community engagement, with games primarily held on Saturdays and Sundays. Match days in the Hunter are a full-day experience, often starting with junior grades in the morning and culminating in the First Grade “Main Event” in the afternoon.
Group 21 Rugby League 2026: Results & Upcoming Fixtures
| Date / Time | Grade | Matchup | Venue | Result | Next Fixture |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sat 18 April 12:15 PM |
Ladies Tag | Singleton vs Central Newcastle | St John Oval | 12 – 10 | v Greta Branxton (W) |
| Sun 19 April 11:10 AM |
Under 18’s | Singleton vs Scone | Pirtek Park | 18 – 18 | v Greta Branxton (A) |
| Sun 19 April 12:20 PM |
Reserve Grade | Singleton vs Scone | Pirtek Park | 24 – 06 | v Greta Branxton (A) |
| Sun 19 April 02:00 PM |
First Grade | Singleton vs Scone | Pirtek Park | 28 – 14 | v Greta Branxton (A) |
| Sat 02 May 12:15 PM |
Ladies Tag | Greta Branxton v Singleton | Greta Central Oval | — : — | v Denman Devils |
| Sun 03 May 11:10 AM |
Under 18’s | Greta Branxton v Singleton | Greta Central Oval | — : — | v Denman Devils |
| Sun 03 May 12:20 PM |
Reserve Grade | Greta Branxton v Singleton | Greta Central Oval | — : — | v Denman Devils |
| Sun 03 May 02:00 PM |
First Grade | Greta Branxton v Singleton | Greta Central Oval | — : — | v Denman Devils |
Note: For full match replays and video highlights of the 2026 season, fans can visit the official BarTV Sports Group 21 portal.
The Match Day Experience: “Beers with Beetle” and Beyond
What sets Group 21 apart is the culture off the field. Rugby league here is a social hub. Events like “Beers with Beetle” at Pirtek Park allow the “Old Boys” and the community to gather, share a laugh, and support the next generation of players. It is this mixture of high-stakes sport and grassroots hospitality that makes a trip to a Hunter Valley match-up a must for any footy enthusiast.
Frequently Asked Questions
The competition is based in the Upper Hunter Valley region of New South Wales, Australia, including the towns of Singleton, Scone, Aberdeen, and Muswellbrook.
Standings change weekly. You can view the current First Grade ladder on the official NSWRL website or the PlayRugbyLeague app.
While both are regional NSW competitions, Group 20 is located in the Griffith and Riverina area of South-Western NSW, hundreds of kilometres away from the Hunter Valley-based Group 21.
First Grade kick-off is typically scheduled for 2:00 PM or 2:20 PM on Sundays, following the completion of the Reserve Grade and Under 18s matches.
