Welcome to the Rebels Rugby Academy

The Rebels Rugby Academy gives every child in Byron Shire aged 6–16 the chance to learn, play, and enjoy rugby in a safe, supportive, and fun environment. Rugby builds confidence, teamwork, respect, and resilience — skills that stay with kids well beyond the field.

With the Rugby World Cup coming to Australia in 2027, it’s the perfect time to grow the game locally. The Academy is leading that movement by helping new players pick up a ball for the first time, develop through quality coaching, and progress from grassroots to representative levels.

We deliver rugby through three accessible pathways:

Schools Programs, Holiday Camps, and a Weekly Academy Training.

Whether your child is just starting or already striving for more, the Rebels Rugby Academy helps them build skills, friendships, and confidence that last a lifetime.

SCHOOLS
CAMPS
TRAINING
JOIN THE ACADEMY

SUMMER RUGBY CAMP .

SUMMER RUGBY CAMP .

Fun, Active, and Full of Rugby Spirit

The Rebels Rugby Academy Holiday Camps are the perfect way for kids aged 6–15 to stay active, make friends, and grow their rugby skills during the school holidays — whether they’re trying rugby for the first time or already regular players.

Parents love the camps because they’re safe, structured, great value, and keep kids outdoors, active, and social. They also help build confidence, teamwork, and a genuine love for the game.

Each camp blends skill-building with fun, inclusive activities led by qualified coaches who create a positive, supportive environment where every child can learn, grow, and thrive.

What to Expect

  • Rugby Skills & Games: Passing, tackling (age-appropriate), agility, and teamwork drills

  • Confidence & Fitness: Activities that build coordination, strength, and resilience

  • Team Challenges & Mini Tournaments: Friendly games that put new skills into action

  • Expert Coaching: Led by Academy Head Coach Reece Bartlett

WhEN & WHERE

  • 12, 13 & 14 of January

  • 9.00 - 13.00

  • Byron Bay Rec Grounds, Tennyson St

Who Can Join

  • Boys and girls aged 6–15

  • All skill levels — from complete beginners to experienced players

  • Groups organised by age and ability

  • No prior rugby experience needed — just enthusiasm and a willingness to give it a go!

Cost

  • $150 — Full Camp + Term 1 Academy Membership
    Includes all 3 camp days, 10 Monday night training sessions, and an Academy merch pack (training shirt, hat & bag).

  • $60 — One-Day Drop-In Pass

SECURE YOUR SPOT

BUILT BY ROHRIG

Their investment provides not only the facilities and resources to grow junior rugby in Byron Shire but also meaningful career pathways for our older players — opening doors to opportunities in construction, apprenticeships, and education.

Several of our juniors have already earned sporting scholarships to schools such as Lindisfarne, St Andrew’s Anglican College, and Ipswich Grammar, showing how rugby can create life-changing opportunities well beyond the field.

Together, we’re building more than a rugby program — we’re building a stronger future for young people in Byron Shire.

The Academy is proudly sponsored by Rohrig Construction, whose support has helped turn our vision into reality.
A long-standing supporter of rugby through their partnerships with West Harbour and Brothers Rugby Club, Rohrig shares our belief that sport has the power to shape young lives.

Meet REECE

Reece Bartlett is Head Coach of the Rebels Rugby Academy and works three days a week in the community, driving participation in rugby union across the Byron Shire.

A former Community Development Officer with Nottingham Rugby and Plymouth Albion, Reece combines professional experience with a passion for grassroots development. Under his leadership, the Academy is not only building better rugby players — it’s building better young people.