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In the news this week, for the first time in 2026... - Hello And Welcome Back
- Manly In 7S Heaven
- Spots Up For Grabs In Trials
- Tank Was One Of A Kind
- International Women's Day Trivia Night
- Mudgee Update
- Golf Aces
- Thinking Ahead About Your Next Career Move
- The Way We Were
- Membership Has Its Privileges
- Guess Who Don't Sue
- Sponsors Spotlight - Get Plumbing
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In the news this week, for the first time in 2026... - Hello And Welcome Back
- Manly In 7S Heaven
- Spots Up For Grabs In Trials
- Tank Was One Of A Kind
- International Women's Day Trivia Night
- Mudgee Update
- Golf Aces
- Thinking Ahead About Your Next Career Move
- The Way We Were
- Membership Has Its Privileges
- Guess Who Don't Sue
- Sponsors Spotlight - Get Plumbing
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Club rugby is back and so is Marlins Fillets for another season. Now into the sixth year of the most-read publication in clubland (4500 subscribers and counting), we’ll aim to bring you all the news from our men's and women's programs as well as all the latest goings on, rumours and general gibber. Thanks for coming on the ride. |
Club rugby is back and so is Marlins Fillets for another season. Now into the sixth year of the most-read publication in clubland (4500 subscribers and counting), we’ll aim to bring you all the news from our men's and women's programs as well as all the latest goings on, rumours and general gibber. Thanks for coming on the ride. |
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The Marlins are now officially the second most successful club in Kiama 7s history after claiming the prestigious piece of silverware last month. Randwick top the charts on 11 when it comes to Kiama wins but we are fast catching up, with eight to our name. Coming off a win at the Mick "Whale" Curry memorial tournament and a strong follow up performance at the Warringah 7s, our boys reached the Kiama final undefeated through four games before thrashing Easts 28-5 in the decider. Captain Dally Bird, whose brother Jackon coached the side, was named player-of-the-final. "We had an awesome prep and all the players really bought into what we were doing," Dally told us. "We would be locked in when game time came around but also had a lot of fun getting to know the new guys and having a good time in between games. "It also helps having some seriously good football players." Sevens rugby is obviously a different beast to 15s but Bird sees nothing but positive takeaways as the Shute Shield season approaches. He said: "Winning is contagious and having people who are competitive and are ready to win is always a good thing. "And as far as developing skill and fitness, it’s always beneficial to play 7s." Our women's team also did us proud in Kiama, going through the group stage unbeaten (two wins and a draw) before being contentiously eliminated on countback. There was some heated debate over the arithmetic used to determine who goes through on for and against when teams are locked on the same points, but we ultimately lost the argument and had to cop our medicine. |
The Marlins are now officially the second most successful club in Kiama 7s history after claiming the prestigious piece of silverware last month. Randwick top the charts on 11 when it comes to Kiama wins but we are fast catching up, with eight to our name. Coming off a win at the Mick "Whale" Curry memorial tournament and a strong follow up performance at the Warringah 7s, our boys reached the Kiama final undefeated through four games before thrashing Easts 28-5 in the decider. Captain Dally Bird, whose brother Jackon coached the side, was named player-of-the-final. "We had an awesome prep and all the players really bought into what we were doing," Dally told us. "We would be locked in when game time came around but also had a lot of fun getting to know the new guys and having a good time in between games. "It also helps having some seriously good football players." Sevens rugby is obviously a different beast to 15s but Bird sees nothing but positive takeaways as the Shute Shield season approaches. He said: "Winning is contagious and having people who are competitive and are ready to win is always a good thing. "And as far as developing skill and fitness, it’s always beneficial to play 7s." Our women's team also did us proud in Kiama, going through the group stage unbeaten (two wins and a draw) before being contentiously eliminated on countback. There was some heated debate over the arithmetic used to determine who goes through on for and against when teams are locked on the same points, but we ultimately lost the argument and had to cop our medicine. |
SPOTS UP FOR GRABS IN TRIALS |
SPOTS UP FOR GRABS IN TRIALS |
We've firmed up dates and kick-off times for our three trials should you wish to see some pre-season club rugby action over the next few weeks. First grade colts (11am), second grade (12.30pm) and firsts (2pm) will take on Canberra's Norths Owls at Eridge Park, Bowral, this Saturday, with the rest of our sides in action from 10am against Forest subbies at Melwood Oval. The following week (March 21) has us playing Queanbeyan 1s colts (11.15am) and second (2pm) and third grade (12.40pm) at Narrabeen's Academy of Sport, while the senior side meets Gordon from 3.30pm. Our final hit-out is against Warringah at Rat Park on March 28, with all our men's and women's teams in action from 9.10am. Asked what he hoped to find over the next few weeks, head coach Sam Lane replied: "A team. "And I mean that in a good way. There is competition for every single spot and that can only be a positive. "These trials provide the chance for players to put their hand up for selection for our first game next month. "It's been a really good pre-season and I feel like we are in really good shape for the start of the comp." |
We've firmed up dates and kick-off times for our three trials should you wish to see some pre-season club rugby action over the next few weeks. First grade colts (11am), second grade (12.30pm) and firsts (2pm) will take on Canberra's Norths Owls at Eridge Park, Bowral, this Saturday, with the rest of our sides in action from 10am against Forest subbies at Melwood Oval. The following week (March 21) has us playing Queanbeyan 1s colts (11.15am) and second (2pm) and third grade (12.40pm) at Narrabeen's Academy of Sport, while the senior side meets Gordon from 3.30pm. Our final hit-out is against Warringah at Rat Park on March 28, with all our men's and women's teams in action from 9.10am. Asked what he hoped to find over the next few weeks, head coach Sam Lane replied: "A team. "And I mean that in a good way. There is competition for every single spot and that can only be a positive. "These trials provide the chance for players to put their hand up for selection for our first game next month. "It's been a really good pre-season and I feel like we are in really good shape for the start of the comp." |
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If you were ever fortunate enough to spend any time with Bruce Morton, you always came away richer for the experience. Even as he was encountering health issues as he pushed towards his 90th birthday, Tank, as he was known to all, remained interesting and interested. His love of a laugh with good mates over a beer or two stayed with him right until the end, which sadly came late last month when he passed away at 90. He was our oldest life member with a contribution to the club that is almost unsurpassable. Bruce started out as a fly-half/fullback in 1956, going on to play 129 grade games (one in firsts) across 10 years. He scored 23 tries, kicked 25 goals and landed three drop goals. Upon retiring after the 1966 season, Tank stepped into myriad off-field roles that would take us a day to get through. But we'll try. He was a lower grade coach, committee member, honorary secretary, deputy president, ground announcer, organiser of overseas tours for grade and Manly Steamers (Golden Oldies) teams and administrator on the Manly Oval Trust. Wait, there's more. Bruce was also a director, president, deputy president and secretary of the Manly Rugby's licensed club, as well as chief organiser of the Anzac Day breakfast for 30 years. He was also a regular on the hot plate at the volunteers' BBQ each Saturday morning, ensuring those who rose early to set up Manly Oval for home matches were rewarded with a bacon and egg roll for their efforts. Tank also had strong ties to the local water polo, swimming and surf club communities. Showcasing his ability to bring people together, Bruce started a monthly lunch for ex-players, officials and supporters several years ago. The catch-up morphed into the Bruce "Tank" Morton lunch and Mick Batty has done an excellent job keeping the momentum going. The next gathering – to be held March 17 at the Manly Bowling Club - will be a tribute to Tank. There was a wonderful send-off on Monday afternoon when friends and family packed the Manly Club to hear stories about Bruce's life and the many people he touched. We also offer our condolences to the friends and family of Ian Matthews, who passed away last month at 85. "Sniffy" played lower grades at Manly and was a popular member of the Manly Life Saving Club. Vale Tank and Sniffy. |
If you were ever fortunate enough to spend any time with Bruce Morton, you always came away richer for the experience. Even as he was encountering health issues as he pushed towards his 90th birthday, Tank, as he was known to all, remained interesting and interested. His love of a laugh with good mates over a beer or two stayed with him right until the end, which sadly came late last month when he passed away at 90. He was our oldest life member with a contribution to the club that is almost unsurpassable. Bruce started out as a fly-half/fullback in 1956, going on to play 129 grade games (one in firsts) across 10 years. He scored 23 tries, kicked 25 goals and landed three drop goals. Upon retiring after the 1966 season, Tank stepped into myriad off-field roles that would take us a day to get through. But we'll try. He was a lower grade coach, committee member, honorary secretary, deputy president, ground announcer, organiser of overseas tours for grade and Manly Steamers (Golden Oldies) teams and administrator on the Manly Oval Trust. Wait, there's more. Bruce was also a director, president, deputy president and secretary of the Manly Rugby's licensed club, as well as chief organiser of the Anzac Day breakfast for 30 years. He was also a regular on the hot plate at the volunteers' BBQ each Saturday morning, ensuring those who rose early to set up Manly Oval for home matches were rewarded with a bacon and egg roll for their efforts. Tank also had strong ties to the local water polo, swimming and surf club communities. Showcasing his ability to bring people together, Bruce started a monthly lunch for ex-players, officials and supporters several years ago. The catch-up morphed into the Bruce "Tank" Morton lunch and Mick Batty has done an excellent job keeping the momentum going. The next gathering – to be held March 17 at the Manly Bowling Club - will be a tribute to Tank. There was a wonderful send-off on Monday afternoon when friends and family packed the Manly Club to hear stories about Bruce's life and the many people he touched. We also offer our condolences to the friends and family of Ian Matthews, who passed away last month at 85. "Sniffy" played lower grades at Manly and was a popular member of the Manly Life Saving Club. Vale Tank and Sniffy. |
INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY TRIVIA NIGHT |
INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY TRIVIA NIGHT |
To celebrate Women & Girls in Rugby Week, on the eve of International Women’s Day, the Manly Rugby Football Club community came together for a great night at our Women’s Sports Trivia, expertly hosted by a local gold medal winner Chloe Dalton OAM. During the score tally, Director of Rugby Nathan Grey, Marlins Women’s Captain Erika Peterson, and Stan Sport commentator and Marlins alumni Sean Maloney shared their insights on the women’s game. While the trivia kept everyone entertained, the real highlight was seeing the room full of players, board members and supporters enjoying the evening together, and rallying behind the Women’s Team fundraising efforts of their tour to Tonga later in the year. |
To celebrate Women & Girls in Rugby Week, on the eve of International Women’s Day, the Manly Rugby Football Club community came together for a great night at our Women’s Sports Trivia, expertly hosted by a local gold medal winner Chloe Dalton OAM. During the score tally, Director of Rugby Nathan Grey, Marlins Women’s Captain Erika Peterson, and Stan Sport commentator and Marlins alumni Sean Maloney shared their insights on the women’s game. While the trivia kept everyone entertained, the real highlight was seeing the room full of players, board members and supporters enjoying the evening together, and rallying behind the Women’s Team fundraising efforts of their tour to Tonga later in the year. |
We don't want Gordon fans outnumbering us when we meet the Highlanders in Mudgee on May 16, so get cracking with your accommodation and travel plans. Those who are already locked in might like to take advantage of a couple deals on offer, with the Oriental Hotel hosting a pre-game function on Friday night. Your $25 ticket covers one drink on arrival and entry to the next day's game. Sign up here: https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1546164 After the match, a function for both sides will be held at Glen Willow Stadium until 11pm. It's the first time in our history we've played a premiership match in the bush, so it’s one not to be missed. |
We don't want Gordon fans outnumbering us when we meet the Highlanders in Mudgee on May 16, so get cracking with your accommodation and travel plans. Those who are already locked in might like to take advantage of a couple deals on offer, with the Oriental Hotel hosting a pre-game function on Friday night. Your $25 ticket covers one drink on arrival and entry to the next day's game. Sign up here: https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1546164 After the match, a function for both sides will be held at Glen Willow Stadium until 11pm. It's the first time in our history we've played a premiership match in the bush, so it’s one not to be missed. |
Have you heard the one about two Aussies, a Pom and a Kiwi walking into a club and ransacking the place? Well, when we say ransacking, we mean taking off with all the goodies, Manly Oval ground announcer Mike Westdorp and playing partners Rod Tweddle, Tim Bee and Wally Brown were victorious in Manly Rugby Club's annual four-ball ambrose golf day last Friday. They picked up an annual membership to all Manly home games, cases of Taylors Rose, Bucketty's ginger beer, prosecco and Riot Red wine. More than 20 groups teed off on at glorious Long Reef, later discussing their monster drives, birdies, bogeys, slices and shanks over a lunch that went well into the afternoon. |
Have you heard the one about two Aussies, a Pom and a Kiwi walking into a club and ransacking the place? Well, when we say ransacking, we mean taking off with all the goodies, Manly Oval ground announcer Mike Westdorp and playing partners Rod Tweddle, Tim Bee and Wally Brown were victorious in Manly Rugby Club's annual four-ball ambrose golf day last Friday. They picked up an annual membership to all Manly home games, cases of Taylors Rose, Bucketty's ginger beer, prosecco and Riot Red wine. More than 20 groups teed off on at glorious Long Reef, later discussing their monster drives, birdies, bogeys, slices and shanks over a lunch that went well into the afternoon. |
THINKING AHEAD ABOUT YOUR NEXT CAREER MOVE? |
THINKING AHEAD ABOUT YOUR NEXT CAREER MOVE? |
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Our accounting practice is growing, and we’re on the lookout for people who are motivated, curious, and genuinely enjoy working with others. If you’re someone who likes being part of a supportive team rather than going it alone, you’ll fit right in. We’ve already brought several Marlins players into the Bentleys squad, and they’ve been incredible additions. They bring the same attitude they show on the field: show up, work hard, back your teammates, and celebrate the wins together. That’s exactly the kind of culture we’re continuing to build. We’re adding team players across roles like: - Graduate and Intermediate Accountants who want to learn fast and get involved
- Senior Accountants who enjoy mentoring and taking the lead
- Accounting Supervisor and Managers pros who love solving problems with clients and team members
- Audit team members who bring a sharp eye and a collaborative mindset
- Tax specialists who enjoy digging into the details
If you want a workplace where people support each other, share knowledge, and actually enjoy coming to work, we’d love to chat. Reach out and tell us what you’re looking for: Email:Human.resources@bentleysnsw.com.au Phone: (02) 9220 0700 — ask for our People and Culture Team |
Our accounting practice is growing, and we’re on the lookout for people who are motivated, curious, and genuinely enjoy working with others. If you’re someone who likes being part of a supportive team rather than going it alone, you’ll fit right in. We’ve already brought several Marlins players into the Bentleys squad, and they’ve been incredible additions. They bring the same attitude they show on the field: show up, work hard, back your teammates, and celebrate the wins together. That’s exactly the kind of culture we’re continuing to build. We’re adding team players across roles like: - Graduate and Intermediate Accountants who want to learn fast and get involved
- Senior Accountants who enjoy mentoring and taking the lead
- Accounting Supervisor and Managers pros who love solving problems with clients and team members
- Audit team members who bring a sharp eye and a collaborative mindset
- Tax specialists who enjoy digging into the details
If you want a workplace where people support each other, share knowledge, and actually enjoy coming to work, we’d love to chat. Reach out and tell us what you’re looking for: Email:Human.resources@bentleysnsw.com.au Phone: (02) 9220 0700 — ask for our People and Culture Team |
It's the second week of March 1993 and the legendary John "Swansea" Hinton is the feature story in The Manly Daily's weekly Blindside column. Proving men can actually do two things at once, our favourite Welshmen was munching on a steak sandwich while running the line during pre-season trials. Swansea told photographer Mark Scott the sanga was simply too good to let go cold. Fair enough. |
It's the second week of March 1993 and the legendary John "Swansea" Hinton is the feature story in The Manly Daily's weekly Blindside column. Proving men can actually do two things at once, our favourite Welshmen was munching on a steak sandwich while running the line during pre-season trials. Swansea told photographer Mark Scott the sanga was simply too good to let go cold. Fair enough. |
The 2026 season is just around the corner - and now is the time for everyone to get signed up for another big year at Manly. Whether you’re renewing or joining for the first time, membership is the best way to get behind the club. Members enjoy access to home games, member discounts, member-only events and offers, priority club communications, and the chance to be part of a proud rugby community - on and off the field. This season promises cracking matches, strong competition, and plenty of ways to be involved. Click here to join our 2026 members and be part of what’s shaping up to be an incredible year. |
The 2026 season is just around the corner - and now is the time for everyone to get signed up for another big year at Manly. Whether you’re renewing or joining for the first time, membership is the best way to get behind the club. Members enjoy access to home games, member discounts, member-only events and offers, priority club communications, and the chance to be part of a proud rugby community - on and off the field. This season promises cracking matches, strong competition, and plenty of ways to be involved. Click here to join our 2026 members and be part of what’s shaping up to be an incredible year. |
Rumour #1: Club rugby's Darth Vader - Sydney Uni - were in the sights of some for allegedly "stealing" three promising young Manly players over the summer. Hate to kill a good story but the Students were approached by someone with ties to one player and didn't initiate contact. The upshot is one player left with our blessing and two happily remain. Rumour #2: The Shute Shield is after a new sponsor following the end of the long-standing partnership with Charter Hall. We hear they are finalising the terms as we go to print! Rumour #3: Who is the well-known Manly rugby identity who claims to be going grog free from Sundays to Thursdays in a bid to stay a little sharper? He was spotted sipping lemon squash at Tank Morton's memorial on Monday but the smart betting has this new regime lasting less than a week. Rumour #4: Nothing official yet but we hear the Manly Bowlo will again be the central location for all post-match celebrations this year. The past two seasons has seen players, officials and supporters go their separate ways at two or three different venues. |
Rumour #1: Club rugby's Darth Vader - Sydney Uni - were in the sights of some for allegedly "stealing" three promising young Manly players over the summer. Hate to kill a good story but the Students were approached by someone with ties to one player and didn't initiate contact. The upshot is one player left with our blessing and two happily remain. Rumour #2: The Shute Shield is after a new sponsor following the end of the long-standing partnership with Charter Hall. We hear they are finalising the terms as we go to print! Rumour #3: Who is the well-known Manly rugby identity who claims to be going grog free from Sundays to Thursdays in a bid to stay a little sharper? He was spotted sipping lemon squash at Tank Morton's memorial on Monday but the smart betting has this new regime lasting less than a week. Rumour #4: Nothing official yet but we hear the Manly Bowlo will again be the central location for all post-match celebrations this year. The past two seasons has seen players, officials and supporters go their separate ways at two or three different venues. |
SPONSOR SPOTLIGHT - GET PLUMBING |
SPONSOR SPOTLIGHT - GET PLUMBING |
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This week, we shine the spotlight on Get Plumbing, led by long-time rugby enthusiast and dedicated Marlins supporter Mark Berridge.
Mark has been part of the plumbing business for over two decades, having worked with Get Plumbing for six years before taking ownership. Now in his fifth year at the helm, he has continued to build the company’s reputation across Sydney. Get Plumbing specialises in high-end residential plumbing, hospitality projects, and commercial fitouts, backed by a 24-hour maintenance service that keeps clients covered around the clock.
Mark’s connection to rugby runs deep. Coming into his third year as a Marlins sponsor, he says his love for grassroots, local footy—more than the polished world of Super Rugby—is what first motivated him to get involved. The chance to directly support the club and its players sealed the deal.
When asked about the best part of being a sponsor, Mark’s answer comes with a grin: ‘Honestly? Watching the footy while having a beer in the 1883 Club.’ Beyond the cold beers and good footy, he highlights the friendships he’s formed through sponsorship—relationships he describes as priceless.
Mark’s favourite Marlins moment to date? The ANZAC Day Derby. While the scorecard didn’t swing our way, the atmosphere and spirit of the day left a lasting impression.
Sponsorship has also played a role in growing his business. Being able to meet fellow sponsors, supporters, and potential clients face to face has opened new doors—some of which have turned into ongoing professional relationships. It’s yet another example of how the Marlins community extends well beyond the try-line.
Looking ahead to the 2026 season, Mark is keeping his expectations simple: ‘Marlins to win the comp… and being Welsh, Wales to win a game—anyone will do!’
The Marlins thank Mark and Get Plumbing for their ongoing support, passion, and community spirit. |
This week, we shine the spotlight on Get Plumbing, led by long-time rugby enthusiast and dedicated Marlins supporter Mark Berridge.
Mark has been part of the plumbing business for over two decades, having worked with Get Plumbing for six years before taking ownership. Now in his fifth year at the helm, he has continued to build the company’s reputation across Sydney. Get Plumbing specialises in high-end residential plumbing, hospitality projects, and commercial fitouts, backed by a 24-hour maintenance service that keeps clients covered around the clock.
Mark’s connection to rugby runs deep. Coming into his third year as a Marlins sponsor, he says his love for grassroots, local footy—more than the polished world of Super Rugby—is what first motivated him to get involved. The chance to directly support the club and its players sealed the deal.
When asked about the best part of being a sponsor, Mark’s answer comes with a grin: ‘Honestly? Watching the footy while having a beer in the 1883 Club.’ Beyond the cold beers and good footy, he highlights the friendships he’s formed through sponsorship—relationships he describes as priceless.
Mark’s favourite Marlins moment to date? The ANZAC Day Derby. While the scorecard didn’t swing our way, the atmosphere and spirit of the day left a lasting impression.
Sponsorship has also played a role in growing his business. Being able to meet fellow sponsors, supporters, and potential clients face to face has opened new doors—some of which have turned into ongoing professional relationships. It’s yet another example of how the Marlins community extends well beyond the try-line.
Looking ahead to the 2026 season, Mark is keeping his expectations simple: ‘Marlins to win the comp… and being Welsh, Wales to win a game—anyone will do!’
The Marlins thank Mark and Get Plumbing for their ongoing support, passion, and community spirit. |
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