Central West Rugby Union clubs may be getting back to training in the hope of contesting some kind of season in 2020 but things aren't as concrete in the neighbouring Western Plains competition.
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Western Plains Rugby Union (WPRU) has not locked in any kind of season as of yet, with a meeting between administrators and club presidents in the coming weeks likely to decide if the competition goes ahead this season.
The uncertainty around start dates, crowd restrictions, and the pressure on the many licenced premises which are major sponsors for the competition's clubs is the main cause of the current doubt.
"It's a wait and see at the moment," WPRU president Luke Holcombe said.
"If we can't play until after mid-July then some clubs have been saying what's the point. Would the competition be worthwhile?
"There's the uncertainty around crowds and if there's no crowds then there's no money coming in from the gate or bars so clubs would be forking out cash but getting nothing back."
The eight-team competition - which features Coonamble, Warren, Walgett, Gulargambone, Bourke, Brewarrina, Cobar, and Nyngan's Bogan Bulls - was scheduled to start on May 2.
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The licenced premises issue is a pressing one for sporting organisations across the state and it's particularly important for those in regional areas.
Clubs are reliant on players and fans from the opposition heading back to pubs and clubs post-match and while restrictions are starting to ease there's limitations in place.
"You've got to think about the sponsors," Holcombe said.
"Pubs are allowed 50 people and that would allow the two first grade sides but that's it.
"You want to bring the whole crowd back and this makes it hard."
While Holcombe and his clubs are remaining patient, others around the state have already taken action.
Central North Rugby Union (CNRU) clubs voted unanimously to cancel the 2020 senior season without a ball being kicked on Sunday night.
The decision was made, according to CNRU Tony Byrnes, was made because of the ongoing uncertainty and to ensure no risk to players, administrators and communities.
"This is a bigger thing than just sport in our community," Byrnes said.
"It's a whole community threat, if you like. As hard as it was to make that decision, we made it in those interests."
Other competitions in regional and rural areas remain waiting for further guidelines, like Holcombe and the WPRU, while others have plans in place to start from July 18.
Much like his Central West Rugby Union counterpart Matt Tink, Holcombe wants to see rugby played this season.
If play does go ahead, it is likely sides would play each other once and the finals series would be shortened from four to three weeks to ensure the grand final date remains September 12.
"But it's up to the clubs to see if it's worthwhile," Holcombe said.
"It's about crowds. All clubs in the competition need to make money and if there's no crowds then there's no chance of making anything."
Holcombe added he had been pleased by the regular updates from NSW Rugby, Rugby Australia and the state government.
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Nick Guthrie
I started working at the Daily Liberal in 2013 and now hold the position of senior journalist. I cover all that's happening in sport in Dubbo and the wider western area and have a passion for doing so. If you've got a story that needs telling, reach out.
I started working at the Daily Liberal in 2013 and now hold the position of senior journalist. I cover all that's happening in sport in Dubbo and the wider western area and have a passion for doing so. If you've got a story that needs telling, reach out.
