The Blacks claimed a 38-10 victory against Wollongong Vikings at WIN Stadium on September 2. Coach Pete Burt said the grand final win was a reward for years of hard work from club members.

The club has previously won the competition in other grades.

“It’s been 15 years since we’ve [the club] been in a grand final, and about 17 years since we’ve won,” Burt said. 

“It was the entire coaching staff, and all of the other managers, trainers and committee members. It wasn’t just the guys on the field.” Man of the match went to Lachlan Huntington who was solid with the boot, had four try conversions and three penalties for a total of 17 points. Hundreds of supporters from the Highlands filled the grandstands at the stadium.

About 200 people including players, coaches, family and friends of the club commemorated the grand final victory with a celebration at Eridge Park after the game.

To top off a successful season for the club, two members were recently recognised at the Illawarra Rugby Union presentation dinner.

Gene Fairbanks was awarded Illawarra coach of the year, while Mark Freund took out the volunteer of the year award.