Goolgowi secured its third minor premiership and first since 2021 with a commanding 52‑4 win over Deniliquin.
The Rabbitohs raced to a 32‑0 halftime lead and finished strongly, with Henry Taylor and Mitchell White both scoring hat‑tricks and Brad Turner adding two tries.
Deniliquin’s lone try came from Lachie Brill, assisted by his father, Adam, in one of the day’s bright moments for the Heelers.
Blue Heelers secretary Jono Oliver said the side went into the match knowing the challenge ahead.
“It was always going to be a tough game,” he said.
“But the standard set for us is to rock up and give it our all.”
With both halves and a key forward unavailable, Deniliquin was forced to reshuffle its line‑up.
“Although the guys that filled those positions did really well,” Oliver said.
He said the club had dealt with similar disruptions throughout the season but continued to show resilience.
Across the league, Ivanhoe’s one‑point win over Barellan in the men’s grand final rematch shaped the final standings, while Rankins Springs fell just short of a finals berth despite a strong finish.
In the women’s competition, Ivanhoe completed an undefeated regular season with a 4‑0 win over Barellan, and Goolgowi secured its finals place with a 26‑0 victory over Deniliquin.
Oliver said the Heelers’ women’s side had been one of the club’s great positives this year.
“The girls from week one have consistently improved,” he said.
“The whole club is super proud of them, showing up each week and having a crack.”
He also praised the spirit shown across the competition.
“We had a number of players fill in for us this season, and it’s been awesome the way the competition has created that sense of community.”
The Heelers will hold their presentation night on August 15, followed by their annual general meeting.
Pre‑season training is expected to begin around the Anzac Day long weekend next year.
Oliver confirmed that inaugural president Kurt Langford, who helped establish the club, has retired from regular playing but will remain involved.
He also thanked everyone who had supported the club this season.
“Thanks to our sponsors,” he said.
“The whole club is looking forward to next year and showing what we can do.”
