The Woollahra Colleagues Rugby Club, affectionately known as “Colleagues” or the “Blue Giants,” has a rich history dating back to its formation in 1933. It was founded by five individuals: Ewen Pizzey, Jim Wishart, Dave Higgins, and Harry Kershaw.
Here’s a look at some key milestones in the club’s history:
1933: The club played its first game in May against Bondi Lifesavers at Lyne Park, Rose Bay.
1937, 1938, 1939: Colleagues achieved early success, winning the Club Championship for the first time in 1937, followed by back-to-back victories in 1938 and 1939.
1940: Due to the outbreak of World War II, the club decided to suspend operations and diverted funds to the war effort.
1946: The club re-formed and began training at Rushcutters Bay Oval.
1948: Colleagues secured Woollahra Number 2 as their training ground, sharing a small log cabin clubhouse.
1950s: This decade was a period of significant growth and success, with the erection of a new clubhouse at the present site in 1957. Colleagues won the Bruce Graham (Club Championship) Shield 5 times, the Kentwell Cup 4 times, the Burke Cup twice, and the Whiddon Cup once.
1960s: The “Swinging 60s” saw the club win the Club Championship 5 times, the Kentwell Cup 4 times, the Burke Cup twice, the Whiddon Cup once, and the Judd Cup in 1966.
1970s: Colleagues faced increased competition but still managed 3 Club Championship victories, a Kentwell Cup, and 3 Burke Cup Premierships.
1980s: A period of rejuvenation brought 4 Bruce Graham Shield wins, 3 Kentwell Cups, and an impressive 7 Burke Cup victories. The club also won its first Sutherland Cup in 1984.
1990s: Colleagues secured the Sutherland Cup twice, with the 1996 victory being part of a “Golden year.”
2004: The club notably welcomed the Sydney Convicts, Australia’s first gay rugby team, providing them a home and contributing to a shift in attitudes within Sydney Suburban Rugby. The Convicts have since become highly successful, winning multiple Bingham Cups.
Premierships: Colleagues have a strong record of premierships, winning the Bruce Graham Shield on 25 occasions and the Kentwell Cup 16 times (including 1941, 1950, 1955, 1957, 1959, 1960, 1962, 1963, 1966, 1970, 1980, 1982, 1984, 1996, 2011, and 2022)
They play in the New South Wales Suburban Rugby Union competition.
