POSITIVE THINKING

Q

At the elite level, it’s no secret there is a lot of public frustration surrounding the Wallabies. What’s your take on what’s working and what isn’t?

A

The playing talent is there. Over the last six to 12 months some of the key players that were offshore have been brought back in prep for the World Cup and look, it’s not easy when you are playing the New Zealand juggernaut three times a year.

Can they turn it around for the World Cup? Maybe, maybe not. I understand the frustration of the public but I think a lot of that frustration is systemic around Rugby Australia and the lack of resources the code has received. From the community rugby level upwards there has been a bit of negativity around that and some poor results from the Wallabies only resonates that further. Rugby needs some good stories.

Q

Further to that, what does the game need to rebuild popularity?

A The Shute Shield in Sydney has done that really well over the last couple of years. Their last two grand finals have had upwards of 15,000 to 20,000. I think the game is starting to get some positivity at grassroots level, there are some positive signs there.

Provided the playing numbers at junior levels are stable and growing, clubs similar to Bond offer Rugby Australia a heap given what they contribute to the game. I just think the Wallabies need to win a few games and our Super Rugby teams need to be more successful.