Magic is in the air for Round Eight of the Group 7 South Coast Rugby League competition, with the launch of the inaugural Magic Round. 

For the first time, all four first-grade games will be played back-to-back at Royal Artie Smith Oval in Bomaderry on Saturday, 31 May.

Inspired by the NRL’s own Magic Round, Group 7 Operations Manager and former NRL player Ashton Sims says the concept is about more than just the game.

“It’s not just about rugby league - it’s about bonding communities. That’s what rugby league on the South Coast has always been about at its core, for 114 years,” Sims said.

“You’re bringing people from as far north as Warilla to as far south as Milton-Ulladulla, and from the Moss Vale region as well. We have such a vast area, rich in tradition and cultural diversity - but all united by the common language of rugby league.”

The day’s action will kick off at 12:00pm with the Berry Magpies taking on the Milton-Ulladulla Bulldogs. The headline clash between the Gerringong Lions and Stingrays of Shellharbour will close the day at 5:15pm.

Group 7 Operations Manager Ashton Sims, former Gerringong Lion and St George Illawarra Dragon. Photo: Game Face Photography

Sims is especially looking forward to the key matchup between two ladder leaders - the Albion Park Oak Flats Eagles and the Jamberoo Superoos.

“They’re both well-entrenched in the top five, and whoever gets the two points this weekend will gain a crucial advantage heading into the back half of the season,” he said.

Another game to watch is between the home team, Nowra-Bomaderry Jets, and last year’s runners-up, the Shellharbour Sharks. As the only home side playing, the Jets will be keen to impress at their newly renovated stadium.

“It’s a fantastic facility and could definitely host bigger rugby league events in the future. It’s centrally located on the South Coast, with easy access to train lines and buses,” he said.

“I want to give a big shout-out to Shoalhaven City Council for their ongoing investment in sport. Their commitment to upgrading or building new facilities not only supports players, but also strengthens the broader community and local infrastructure.”

In addition to the four high-quality rugby league matches, the day will also feature local food and beer vendors, as well as a family-friendly zone to round out the event.

“We want to create a really positive and welcoming environment where families can enjoy our great game and experience four back-to-back matches of community rugby league,” Sims added.

Group 7 Magic Round will be held at Royal Artie Smith Oval, Bomaderry, on 31 May. Local fixtures include Jamberoo vs. Albion Park at 1:45pm, and Gerringong vs. Stingrays at 5:15pm. Kiama has the bye.