The Jindabyne Bushpigs have secured their first win in season 2025, defeating the Taralga Tigers at JJ Connors Oval, recording a commanding 105-5 victory in the 2nd Division South Coast Monaro Rugby competition. However, the day was not solely about the points on the board, but also about the unity and support demonstrated by the Jindabyne community in response to the Tigers’ challenging situation.
PHOTO: Bushpigs get behind community Rugby and support Taralga to make up the numbers in a show of sporting spirit CREDIT: Lissy Giagios
With the Taralga Tigers arriving short on players, an extraordinary gesture of kindness was displayed by local rugby enthusiasts who stepped up to fill the void, ensuring the match could proceed.
Acknowledging this substantial act of goodwill, the Taralga Tigers expressed gratitude towards the Jindabyne Rugby Union Club and Snowy River Bears Rugby League Football Club Inc., stating, “Massive thanks to Jindabyne Rugby Union Club (JRUC) and Snowy River Bears Rugby League Football Club Inc for lending some players, it was much appreciated.”
PHOTO: Taralga Tigers in Jindabyne after the match CREDIT: Taralga Tigers
The JRUC responded in kind saying, “Thank you Taralga Tigers for coming to Jindabyne yesterday and a huge thank you to those boys who pulled on the boots to help them out.”
On the field, Jindabyne’s talent shone brightly, with notable performances from several players. Second rower Tomas Chamberlain, Captain Billy Small, half back Joe Quinlan, and winger Samuel Wade each crossed the line twice.
Jindabyne’s star of the day though, was Hooker Charlie Klemm, who claimed a hat-trick amid the decisive win.
PHOTO: Scoreboard screenshot CREDIT: ACT Rugby
This emphatic victory has injected much-needed confidence into the Bushpigs, particularly after losing 18 experienced premiership-winning players from the previous season. Bushpigs Assistant Coach, Michael Needham, remarked “it will take a few games for us to gel,” shortly after round 1, highlighting the team’s evolving chemistry. With a number of players crossing the white stripe in round 3, the club will take a new found confidence into an important clash with the Crookwell Dogs.
PHOTO: While the win will give the Bushpigs some confidence, the Tigers were significantly undermanned CREDIT: Taralga Tigers
The Dogs are currently 3rd on the ladder, however they have played one more match than several other clubs. Crookwell hold a positive for-and-against, with +33 heading into the contest and will provide a big test for the Bushpigs.
Looking ahead, Jindabyne Rugby Union Club invites fans to support both senior teams at home on Saturday, May 3. The JRUC Miss Piggies will face ADFA at 12:30pm fresh off a bye round in the Women’s 10s, followed by the Bushpigs senior men against the Crookwell Dogs at 2:30pm.
The Taralga Tigers anticipate their next challenge against Cooma Rugby Union Football Club in round 4, looking to bounce back at home after a tough road trip.