AFTER nearly four decades of involvement with Group 6 rugby league, group secretary John Dayball announced his retirement at the Player of the Year presentation night at Mittagong RSL on Friday night.

Dayball, who started his league career with the Collegians in the 1970s and was the group's secretary for the past 15 years, was honoured by his colleagues, as was newly inducted life member, The Oaks' Geoff Blacker. Camden recieved a Country Rugby League Centenary plaque and Moss Vale will receive their plaque at the grand final day at Community Oval on August 31.

More than 350 people turned out for the night and the group put together an entertaining evening of guest speakers. 2ST's Steve Anderson, along with News golf columnist Larry Canning emceed the night. Legendary Souths Sydney and Easts great Ron Cootes was the main guest speaker. Former NSW premier John Fahey also spoke, but the raucous crowd, who were unable to keep quiet despite numerous desperate requests by senior Group officials, drowned out anyone who dared to try to speak over their inane table chatter.

The lack of respect the young crowd showed the speakers and the group spoke volumes of the disunity among the group. 2008 has been a controversial year with Goulburn defecting to Group 8 and Narellan forced to replace them in first grade.

Appin's entry into the group was marred by an off-field crisis before the season had even started and the lengthy suspension of two senior club officials from Oakdale and Camden also left a sour taste in the mouth.

For the full story see the Southern Highland News, Monday, August 25

sport.highlandnews@ruralpress.com