Northern United RLFC have kicked off their 2026 preseason training at Clifford Park, Goonellabah.

The club started their training on Tuesday afternoon and will continue to train leading into the NRRRL season on Tuesday's and Thursday's from 5:30pm.

The club has also announced several exciting coaching announcements for season 2026.

The new First Grade Coach for the 2026 season is Ronald Gordon. Gordon will be a welcome addition to the Northern United RLFC Coaching Staff, leading the First Grade team as Coach and overseeing as Club Head Coach. Gordon will bring valuable experience from winning a premiership with South Grafton during his time as First Grade Coach with the Rebels.

Ronald is a proven disciplinarian coach who brings a strong focus on structure, accountability, and a strong work ethic. His approach for the club centres on achieving results through dedication, discipline, and strong team values—setting the standard for the Northern United RLFC in 2026 and beyond.

The U/18s will be coached by Alwyn Roberts and Willo James Snr, who will take on a joint coaching role for the 2026 season.

Roberts and James bring with them a wealth of premiership experience, deep club knowledge, and an unwavering passion for Northern United. Their leadership, understanding of the game, and strong connection with the playing group will be invaluable as they guide the next generation of United talent.

Ladies Tackle will again be coached by Ashley Moran, the successful 2025 Premiership-Winning Coach. Moran returns to the coaching team for the 2026 season, bringing with him a wealth of experience, strong club ties, and a deep connection to the Northern United community.

His leadership and understanding of what it takes to achieve success at the highest level will once again be a major asset to our club.

"We would like to congratulate all our appointed coaches and thank them for their commitment to the club. The Northern United family looks forward to another successful and exciting season of rugby league in 2026."

Unfortunately, Northern United lost a valued member of their community recently.

In a club statement:

"With heavy hearts, we share the sad news of the passing of beautiful Tarra Pjemuwai Nunggarlla. Tarra was a kind-hearted, loving soul who always greeted everyone with her bright smile and infectious happiness. She had a special way of making people feel welcome, valued, and cared for.

Tarra was a much-loved member of our Ladies League Tag team and a long-time, passionate supporter of Northern United RLFC. She gave so much of herself to Northern and our Northern community, volunteering countless hours and always putting others before herself.

 Her warmth, generosity, and unwavering dedication touched the lives of so many, and her absence will be deeply felt by all of us. As teammates, we were blessed to share the field, the sidelines, and so many moments with Tarra. Her encouragement, kindness, and selflessness will forever remain a part of our Club spirit.

On behalf of everyone at Northern United RLFC, we send our deepest love, condolences, and prayers to her beautiful children, parents, Anthony and Annette, and to Tarra’s extended family and friends during this heartbreaking time.

To support Tarra’s family during this difficult period, a GoFundMe page has been set up. Any contribution, big or small, would be greatly appreciated, and sharing the link is also a meaningful way to show your support.

Tarra will always hold a special place in our Northern United hearts. She will be dearly missed and forever remembered. During this incredibly difficult time, we encourage everyone to check in on one another."

https://gofund.me/dea1fdfc3

Support of the GoFundMe page is greatly appreciated.