TWO talented young rugby league players from the Nambucca Valley have been selected to represent NSW Country Under 18s, marking a significant milestone in their already impressive careers.
Toby Batten, from the Nambucca Roosters, and Rielly Laverty, of the Macksville Sea Eagles, have both been named in the prestigious side following years of development through the NSWRL pathways.
In 2023, Batten (halfback) and Laverty (five-eighth) formed a formidable halves pairing for the North Coast Bulldogs in the SLE Andrew Johns Cup, contributing strongly to the squad’s success.
They progressed together in 2024 to the Laurie Daley Cup, again as starting halves, where their leadership and game management stood out against the state’s best.
In 2025, both players returned to the Laurie Daley Cup with Batten captaining the side.
Under his leadership, the Bulldogs finished the season undefeated in the Northern Pool, recording a 5-0 win-loss record and boasting a +94 point differential.
Beyond their regional commitments, both players also stepped up into elite competitions.
They represented the Sydney Bulldogs in the Harold Matthews Cup (Under 17s) in 2024 and in 2025, earned spots in the SG Ball Cup (Under 19s), one of the top junior competitions in the country and a crucial stepping stone to the NRL.
“At first I was a bit surprised about my Country selection but now I’m just keen to head into camp and play with the best 18-year-olds around the state,” Toby told NOTA.
“I’m grateful I’ve been given this opportunity.
“The biggest challenge so far has been the commitment to training three days a week and staying fit but it’s taught me a lot.”
For Rielly Laverty, the selection was an emotional one.
“When I was told I made Country, my heart sang as I’ve worked so hard over the last couple months,” he said.
“It’s been a big building stage for me.
“I had a goal at the start of the Laurie Daley season to make Country, and doing this has been huge and it gives me exposure to a higher level of footy against the best players.”
Both players now set their sights on representing NSW Country with pride and continuing their journey towards elite-level rugby league.
By Mick BIRTLES
