VIC & NSW Referee Association Partnership – Offering Development & Experience Opportunities
- gseton2
- Jul 17
- 2 min read
The Victorian Rugby League Referees Association (VRLRA) and the Balmain Referees Association (BRA) have developed a new initiative to increase opportunities for referees in their workforce. The annual Match Official Exchange Program aims to develop junior and senior referees at the grassroots level by offering invaluable experiences across both states.
Since the VRLRA and BRA partnership was initially established in 2024, referees from both associations have been appointed to cross-competition fixtures, giving them exposure to various playing grades, referee mentorships and gameday environments. The programs aim to enhance referees’ adaptability and improve their confidence, while also encouraging a deeper understanding of the game.
President of the VRLRA, Blake Ridge, said, “Refereeing in any sport takes a certain type of person to pick up the whistle, and not everyone can or wants to have the best seat in the house. The exchange program offers a fantastic opportunity for referees to travel, step outside their comfort zone, network with other officials and ultimately develop as a referee both on and off the field.”
The 2025 exchange program saw two junior female referees-Jenika and Emma- officiate at NRL Victoria’s annual Female Footy Festival event. The event saw over 60 female teams take to the fields to celebrate the participation and achievements of women and girls in Rugby League. They were mentored by Referee Coach Andrew, from the Balmain Referee Association:
“To be honest, coming down to Melbourne the numbers are unbelievable. It’s really exceeded my expectations, and I’m so impressed with what’s going on down here. I have progressed to being a referee coach which I am really enjoying. I don’t like to see games not go ahead because there’s no ref… so if I can give something back, all good. It’s also about providing opportunities such as this exchange and refereeing at other events and carnivals that can attract ore female referees to the game.”
When asked what changes he has loved to see in the female space, Andrew said:
“It’s all about participation…we are reaping the benefits and seeing a lot of girls love rugby league and filter through to the referee ranks now.”
For junior referees and avid league tag and tackle players, Jenika and Emma, officiating has helped them become more confident and learn to back themselves in a game.
“It makes playing a lot easier, because you learn how to read other players. Refereeing means I get to help other people and speak up for myself.” Says Jenika.
“If we can continue to provide high level coaching and mentoring as well as improve its appeal then we will be able to attract and grow our female refereeing participants.” Andrew said.
The exchange program is also aimed at recruitment and retention, a common challenge for all referee associations. If you have ever thought about becoming a referee, reach out to the VRLRA for more information on how to become involved. Make the call, be a ref!
As Junior Referee Emma told us: “Just go for it!”
The VRLRA can be found on socials at:
Instagram: @vicrugbyleaguereferees
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