Life Members Announced

🟡🌑 Penrith Rugby Announces New Life Members 🌑🟡

At the Penrith Rugby Club's Annual General Meeting (AGM), held at the Clubhouse at Nepean Rugby Park on Monday night, three distinguished volunteers, who have made significant contributions to the club over its 60-year history, were honoured with Life Membership.

Eddie Vardabasso LM#19

Eddie has been described as the epitome of what a good club member should be. He became a role model for young men joining the club, a figure whose presence was synonymous with dedication, camaraderie, and the true spirit of community as evidenced in the clubrooms with Eddie Vardabasso appearing on a variety of shields. Known for his goofy hat adorned with a collection of badges and his unmistakable big bristling moustache, Eddie had a larger-than-life personality that instantly made him a recognisable and beloved figure. But it wasn’t just his appearance that left a lasting impression—it was his tireless commitment to the club and his selfless willingness to pitch in whenever and wherever help was needed.

Whether it was cleaning out the change rooms after a match, cooking up a feast on the BBQ, or taking on one of the countless behind-the-scenes tasks that often go unnoticed, Eddie was always there. His hands-on approach and unwavering support for the club’s day-to-day operations made him a pillar of the Penrith Rugby community. He was never one to seek the spotlight or recognition; instead, he was content to quietly and consistently show up, ensuring that the club ran smoothly and that everyone else felt welcomed and supported.

Eddie’s actions spoke volumes about his character and the values he embodied. His example of hard work, humility, and loyalty set the standard for the younger members, reminding them that being part of a club was about more than just playing the game—it was about contributing to something bigger than oneself.

Patrick Gallagher LM#20

Pat began his involvement in rugby after being recruited by Cambridge Park HS Teacher Pat Taylor. He started by working the scoreboard at Nepean Rugby Park before playing for Emus Colts. Pat toured Europe in 1983/4 at just 18, and earned the nickname “Bunga” due to his red curly hair resembling an exploded firecracker.

Pat progressed through the Emus grades to play first-grade prop, then moved to Shute Shield with Two Blues, encouraged by Penrith officials. After returning to Penrith, he switched to breakaway, enjoying success and becoming deeply involved in the club.

When Penrith entered the Shute Shield, Pat coached lower grades and helped organise a successful UK tour, strengthening ties between Penrith and the UK club. Following the resignation of GM Ross Watson, Pat became the club's GM, continuing to coach and drive youth participation in rugby.

Pat initiated the local schools competition, which eventually grew into multiple age divisions. He established a Colts academy, which included gym access, coaching, and a successful tour to New Zealand, where players faced top opposition and learned from coaches like Steve Hansen. Pat’s work with Schools and Colts contributed to an era when Penrith fielded 4 grades of Colts teams on a weekly basis.

Pat's influence extended beyond Penrith, proposing the idea of Premier Rugby to the NSWRU, which ultimately led to the Tooheys Cup era of Sydney Rugby.

Sia’a Taveuveu LM#21

Sia’a began playing for the club's Colts in 1996 and went on to play over 400 games across various grades, including more than 300 first-grade matches.

He is currently the president of the Penrith District Junior Rugby Union, where his responsibilities include organising Penrith representative teams for the June long weekend XVs and the Rugby 7s State Championships.

Sia'a has always been ready to help, even lacing up his boots to play when called upon, earning the title of the oldest player in the 2022 John I Dent Cup. Over the years, his unwavering loyalty and dedication have been evident, cementing his reputation as a true clubman.

The words of Ray McDonald's nomination were echoed by those present at the AGM. Sia’a, who was in attendance, responded and spoke about his transition from player to administrator. He expressed his gratitude to all the volunteers and acknowledged the work involved—work that players, himself included, had often taken for granted.

The club thank these men for their varied and significant contributions to the Penrith Rugby Club and congratulate them on the honour of Life Membership.