In August 2015, the Blacks first grade rugby union side secured only its third win for the season.

Fast forward a year and the Bowral club is preparing to make its long-awaited return to the semi-finals.

This weekend will break an eight-year drought since the Bowral first grade team last appeared in the finals.

The Blacks were knocked out in the first week in 2008 by Shoalhaven.

The club last won the first grade premiership in 1999.

The side lost in the grand final three years later.

This Sunday, the Blacks will travel to Camden to take on Avondale.

The winner will progress to a preliminary final on August 27, which is one step away from the grand final.

Bowral finished the regular season in fourth spot with 12 wins from 18 rounds.

The side has been guided by Gene Fairbanks in 2016 with support from Al Kanaar.

Mr Fairbanks and Mr Kanaar are both former Super Rugby players.

He said it was exciting to see the club return to the finals and the side would face a stiff challenge from Avondale.

Bowral and Avondale have met twice in 2016, with Avondale winning on both occasions.

Avondale recorded a 41-13 win in round two and then secured a 21-7 victory in round 11.

Mr Fairbanks said Avondale was a strong team.

“We need to lift our defence against their big guys,” he said.

“They have big individuals who broke us down last time.

“Avondale started the season well, but it has lost its last three games before the finals.”

Blacks club president Mark Fruend said it had been a great year for the club.

“This has been one of the best years that I’ve been involved in at the club.”