This follows the withdrawal of Camden Haven, as first reported on the Times' website on Wednesday morning. Eight clubs will now contest the premiership.

However, the competition will still finish with the grand final on Sunday September 14, as was the case with the nine club draw. Group Three secretary Barrie Smith said the preferred option wouldl be a two week pre-season on March 29, finishing April 6. The competition-proper will be underway from April 26, the week after Easter.

The Group Two/Group Three representative fixtures will be played on Saturday, May 3 probably at Wauchope, with club games on Sunday May 4.

May 10 will be a free weekend while under 16 and 18 representative trials are played at Coffs Harbour.

Group Three will resume on May 17 and the only other break will be on the June long weekend.

"This will mean we'll avoid a clash between our semi-finals at the Taree Cup meeting while the grand final will be on September 14,'' Mr Smith said.

While the final decision will be left with the clubs, Mr Smith believes this option will get through.