Here comes the Thunder

IN what is set to be 'the' club launch of the year, three current and former Wallabies will headline an impressive guest list for the Wauchope Thunder Rugby Club's launch dinner.

Stephen Moore, Stephen Hoiles and Reg Smith will join Australian Rugby Union CEO, Bill Pulver, as special guests at the Wauchope Thunder's launch on October 31 in the grounds of Billabong Zoo.

Wauchope Thunder President, Peter Daley, said it was an honour to have such high profile rugby personalities attending the club's launch.

"This will be an event not to be missed for anyone who loves their rugby or who wants to know more about this great game," said Mr Daley.

"To have two current leading Super Rugby players attending is a massive coup for us".

Former Wauchope local Reg Smith made his debut for the Wallabies in 1971 against the Springboks and went on to play 22 tests for his country.

"Reg Smith is a legend of the era when rugby players' earned their jersey the toughest way possible. Through blood, sweat and no tears; and he is a Wauchope boy to boot."

Stephen Moore is considered one of the best hookers in world rugby. He has played 92 tests for Australia and 131 Super Rugby games and was promoted as captain of the Wallabies until injury ended his season in June. Last week he was also announced as the captain of the Brumbies for their 2015 Super Rugby campaign.

Loose forward Stephen Hoiles was a key part of the Waratahs team which won this year's Super Rugby title. He also played 16 test matches with the Wallabies between 2004 and 2008.

"Stephen Moore is a Wallaby captain. What more can we ask for. And Stephen Hoiles is an inspiration to any player who has battled injury. His career was at the cross roads three years ago but here he is starring with the Waratahs in their recent Super Rugby final win.

Mr Daley said the fact that ARU CEO Bill Pulver has also given up his time during a hectic schedule was testament to the support the Wauchope Thunder had received as Australia's newest rugby club.

The Thunder's major sponsorship partner, The Hastings Hotel, will cater for the special event. Guests will have the opportunity to mingle with Wallabies of rugby fame together with the marsupial kind, as well as other unique animals the Billabong Zoo has on display.

"Rugby is growing in popularity right across the country, " said Mr Daley.

"We see this trend continuing right here on the Mid North Coast."

Tickets to the Wauchope Thunder's launch dinner are on sale now and are strictly limited to 100 people.

Cost is $75 per head which includes three course dinner, drinks on arrival and entry to the Billabong Zoo.

For further details contact Peter Daley on 0409 445 701 or email beardaley@bigpond.com.