The NSWRL brand has never been stronger with sponsorship and marketing revenue doubling over the past five years to a total of $6.35 million, delivering a surplus of $242,125 in 2015, the Annual General Meeting of the NSW Rugby League was told today.
NSWRL Chief Executive David Trodden said the continued solid financial performance, with surpluses totalling $1.46 million being achieved over the past three years (2013-15), has put NSWRL in a strong position as it enters a new phase, one that includes the development of the Centre of Excellence at Sydney Olympic Park.
Record revenue growth was reported in the key areas of sponsorship (new and continuing partnerships) and the acquisition of the Blatchys Blues program, along with strong results in SOO licensing royalties.
“The strong financial performance is a reflection of the continued development of the NSWRL commercial program that has been a major focus in recent years,” he said.
“The strength of the NSWRL brand is evident with sponsorship revenues increasing during 2015 with major sponsorships having been re-negotiated and commencement of the new partnership with The STAR,” Trodden said.
The commercial program has increased in value, over the past five years (2011-15) by 55 per cent, delivering an annual increase of about 10 per cent with a total revenue of $6.35 million for the 12-month accounts period ending 31 October, 2015.
“Integral to this program has been the acquisition of the Blatchys Blues brand, with 2015 delivering a strong return on the back of support for the Sydney and Melbourne Origin games.
“The recent partnership with the NSW Government and Office of Preventive Health, to assist with better health outcomes for Indigenous communities, is a strong indicator of the importance of the NSWRL brand and the State of Origin stage.”
NSWRL continues to receive strong support from the Australian Rugby League Commission, with an increase in financial support to assist with the conduct of NSWRL senior and junior competitions.
The NSW Cup clubs were the beneficiary of continued funding from the NRL, as part of the Pathways program which commenced in 2014. This support has enabled NSW Cup clubs to compete at the elite level and has assisted the improvement of infrastructure programs that support Rugby League at all levels.
NSWRL continues to undertake support for the community of NSW with more than $1.7 million being spent on programs that support Rugby League throughout schools, junior leagues and the broader community.
At the AGM, Ray Dib and Geoff Gerard were re-elected to the Board unopposed, while NSWRL Board member and Sydney Roosters Chairman Nick Politis AM was awarded Life Membership for his “extended period of outstanding service to the NSWRL”.
To view the NSWRL Annual Report 2015, click here
