RUGBY League returns to the region with a blockbuster grand final rematch, when the 2026 Group 2 season kicks off this weekend.
The Nambucca Roosters begin their premiership defence with a grand final rematch against the Sawtell Panthers, on Sunday afternoon at Coronation Park.
The Roosters will be going for a third-straight premiership this season, while the Panthers will try to go one better after finishing runners-up last season.
The Woolgoolga Seahorses begin their season at home when they host the Macksville Sea Eagles on Saturday afternoon, in the first match of the new season.
The opening round also sees the Grafton Ghosts and South Grafton Rebels face off in their local derby on Sunday afternoon.
The Coffs Harbour Comets have the opening round bye, and start their season in Round 2 by hosting the Woolgoolga Seahorses.
The Coffs Harbour Comets and Sawtell Panthers clash in their first local derby of the season during Round 4 on Saturday, 9 May, at Geoff King Motors Oval.
The Comets and Panthers meet in their second local derby during Round 11 on Saturday, 18 July, at Rex Hardaker Oval.
The Macksville Sea Eagles reserve grade and Under 18s sides both begin their premiership defence in Woolgoolga, when they take on the Woolgoolga Seahorses this weekend.
The Nambucca Roosters women’s side begin their premiership defence by hosting the Sawtell Panthers.
This season’s finals series begin on Saturday 15 August, with the grand final to be played on Sunday 6 September.
By Aiden BURGESS
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