Bulldogs turning 80 but full of fresh bite

The Northern Suburbs Bulldogs Rugby League Football Club is acknowledging its past while keeping an open eye on the future in its 80th anniversary year.

As the club celebrates its rich history, it is ushering in a new era. For the first time in eight decades, the Bulldogs are fielding an open women’s league tag team.

Scarborough local and committee member Ashlee Tracey became involved with the Bullpups (juniors) six seasons ago when her son started playing. She says the demand for a women’s team is undeniable.

"We weren’t sure how much interest there would be, but we put the word out and the community is really excited about it. We could just see the need and the call for it," Ashlee says.

"It’s very popular. We’ve got some players’ wives, girlfriends, partners, mums… all these local people that are like “thank God, we’ve been waiting so long!”

The club's player base has more than doubled in just a few seasons, jumping from roughly 40 total players to more than 100 across senior and junior divisions. The new women's side alone boasts about 20 registered players, ranging in age from 16 to 50.

“It's about fun and community and playing in a team. Some of the women that are coming haven't played before, and it's about getting fit and physical activity,” Ashlee says.

“We’re a really community and family-orientated club, so we’re pretty much focused on just inclusiveness.

“For the juniors, it's all about making sure all the kids get a go. It’s all about playing footy, having fun, meeting people and teaching skills, of course."

Since its establishment in 1946, the club has become a cornerstone of the community, with a small-but-mighty legacy including first grade premierships in 1952, 1960 and 1961, and a dominant run in the second division amateur league throughout the '80s and '90s. Between the larger clubs of Helensburgh and Thirroul, the Bulldogs take pride in their status as a tight-knit, community-oriented underdog.

“We don't take ourselves too seriously. Of course, it’s a team sport and you play to win, but having fun is just as important,” Ashlee says.

This “no-pressure" atmosphere is what keeps families coming back to their home ground at Jim Allen Oval at Wombarra.

The 2026 season is sponsored by Thirroul Dental Care, Wombarra Bowlo, My HR Partner Australia, DEC Aviation Workforce Solutions, TLE Electrical and Dignam Real Estate.

Locals looking to join the club or stay updated on upcoming anniversary celebrations can follow the Bulldogs on Facebook and Instagram or email northsbulldogs1946@gmail.com