Day 2 – Saturday: Rugby, Celebration, and 150 Years of SRFC Pride

Day 2 of the Southbridge Rugby Football Club 150th Jubilee was a true celebration of rugby, community, and the proud legacy of SRFC. The grounds were buzzing from early morning as supporters gathered to watch a full programme of matches honouring 150 years of blue‑and‑white history.

The day featured competitive fixtures with Southbridge Mens Premier Team vs Darfield and Southbridge Division 2 vs Darfield, alongside numerous JAB games that showcased the future of our club. The sidelines were packed with families, past players, and supporters, creating an atmosphere full of pride, excitement, and connection across all generations.

As the games concluded, guests gathered for a delicious dinner catered by Suburban Eatery / Social Platter Co, whose outstanding service and quality added a special touch to the evening.

The formal programme included acknowledgements and speeches from distinguished guests:

  • Dan Carter – All Black #1034 and SRFC representative

  • Mathew Cooper –  President of New Zealand Rugby Union

  • Michael Lay – Chairman of Canterbury Rugby Football Union

  • Andrew Harkerss – Chairman of Southbridge RFC 150th Committee

  • Luke Palmer – President of Southbridge RFC

  • A memorable highlight of the night was the piping in of the 150th Jubilee Cake, led by Andrew Bailey (Newly Appointed Life Member) and Shona Mehlhopt (Life Member), followed by the ceremonial cutting performed by George Cooper (Life Member) and Luke Palmer (President of SRFC) — a moment that beautifully honoured the club’s heritage.

    Presentations were made to newly appointed SRFC Life Members, recognising their outstanding service and dedication:

  • Andrew Bailey

  • Chris McMillan​​​​​​​
  • Mike Rowe, Head Coach of the Premier Men’s Team, received an SRFC blazer to honour his outstanding achievement of coaching 100 games.

  • In a significant gesture of recognition, Mathew Cooper (NZRU) presented Southbridge Rugby Football Club with a Silver Salver from the World Rugby, commemorating 150 years of contribution to the game.

  • The evening concluded with fantastic entertainment from The Corks, bringing energy, music, and celebration to cap off an unforgettable day.

    Day 2 was a proud tribute to the club’s past, a celebration of its present, and a reminder of the strong future ahead for Southbridge Rugby.

       Click Link Here for Photos of The 150th Jubilee