The Mongrels were formed in November 1989 to cater for older rugby players (over 35) who still wished to be involved in playing, but not competitively.

Driving force was Peter Katsoolis (the Fleet Greek) in the Taree area, ably assisted in the Great Lakes area by the late Bruce Greensill.

Games are regularly held against teams from South West Rocks, Port Macquarie, Nelson Bay, Central Coast, Waratahs, Avoca and Moree.

An annual trip has been made to Moree for the last 18 years and is one of the highlights of the calendar.

The Mongrels host their gala on October 19 this year, and usually have players visiting from around a dozen clubs, some coming from Sydney.

This is played at the Dolphins field in Tuncurry.

The Mongrels have been represented at 13 international festivals since 1989. The first was at Perth in 1991 and the latest in Christchurch in 2018.

The reunion weekend will start with a meet and greet at Tuncurry Beach Bowling Club on Friday November 15, while a game is planned for November 16 at the Tuncurry Rugby Field, kicking off at 2pm.

There'll be a dinner on that night at the Tuncurry Beach Bowling Club with breakfast planned for Cape Hawke Surf Club on Sunday November 17.

Those attending should contact club president John Green by October 26 at greejt@people.net.au or Sue on 0403 740 799.