TWO milestones were recognised at round one of the Central North rugby union competition at Moree last Saturday when key clubmen Gus Smith and Jack Fernance celebrated their 100th games for the Weebolla Bulls.

Smith and Fernance were presented with 100-game caps by club stalwart Peter Copeman.

Loosehead lock Gus Smith is a born-and-bred Moree local, with a proud Weebolla connection since his days playing junior rugby with the Bulls.

“My rugby journey began with the bulls competing in the junior carnivals. I began playing senior rugby in 2014 after finishing school, and was part of the second-grade premiership-winning team that year,” Smith said.

Smith, whose father Greg also played a number of seasons for the bulls, completed university studies and returned to Weebolla rugby grounds in 2018.

“I’ve played every year since,” Smith said.

“We won a first-grade premiership in 2023, which would be my greatest memory. The club has always been a big part of my life, and the friendships and connections made, stick with you for life.

“It’s an honour and privilege to play 100 games for one of the great country clubs in New South Wales,” he said.

“Getting to play with my brothers, and for the same club my father played for, is something extra-special.”

Gus Smith and Jack Fernance celebrated 100 games for the Bulls at Weebolla rugby grounds last Saturday (Image Supplied).

Smith, who led the Bulls’ first-grade team onto the field, was awarded top Best and Fairest points after the home side beat Gunnedah Red Devils in a seesawing game, 45-28.

Blindside flanker Jack Fernance said he’s met a lot of good people and created great friendships during his time with the Bulls.

“Reaching 100 games for the club means a lot to me,” Fernance said.

“All the boys, coaches, staff and spectators have made the club feel like home. I’ve met a lot of good fellas and have made some great mates from playing out there.

“And it’s always an unreal feeling playing at home – that atmosphere is sick,” he grinned.

The Bulls’ thumping reserve-grade win, 96-10, against Gunnedah added to celebrations for Fernance, who crossed over and converted a goal to celebrate the benchmark.

Prior to the commencement of games against Gunnedah Red Devils, teams, club officials and spectators stood silently to acknowledge Anzac Day and the men and women who fought and died to maintain the freedom Australia enjoys.

Moree Bulls’ club president David Watts said the opening round heralded a good start to the 2025 season.

“Our opening round was a great day of rugby, enjoyed by a large crowd who have been looking forward to the start of the season,” Watts said.

“We have a great group of players at the moment and they seem to be all enjoying themselves.

“It’s just a matter of making sure they all get their share of the footy.”