The Lions indicated to PLH bosses in January their side wouldn’t take part in the men’s premiership, while the Blue Jays have also folded headed into the women’s season.

It comes as major blow for the sport locally after both the Lions and Blue Jays themselves had returned to the premier competition in recent years after a time in the hockey wilderness. 

But the men’s side lasted just two seasons before folding again while the Blue Jays competed in four PLH seasons after a three year absence.

PLH president Kent Bestwick was obviously disappointed Dubbo – a centre populated by more than 40,000 people – won’t be represented in the region’s major hockey competition.

“I understand it’s a numbers thing. I’m heading to Dubbo this weekend so hopefully I’ll get the chance to have a chat to a few people from the clubs,” he said.

“I’m hoping it’s not a permanent absence.”

Dubbo Hockey president Murray Wood was unable to be reached for comment on the lack of PLH sides this year.

Both the Lions and Blue Jays finished with the wooden spoon last season and both held crisis meetings during the off-season to round-up players and coaches.

Bestwick acknowledged travel was a legitimate concern for such a wide-reaching competition – it’s a 500km round trip for Dubbo teams playing in Lithgow – but was quick to point out a shorter, home-and-away structure would help reduce time commuting this season.

“We’re not playing three rounds this season, which is a positive,” he said.