NSW Rugby Union is honoured to announce that Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC KC, Governor of New South Wales, has accepted the role of Patron of NSW Rugby Union.
The appointment represents a significant milestone in the history of NSW Rugby and recognises the organisation's longstanding contribution to communities across New South Wales through participation, inclusion, volunteerism, education and the development of rugby at all levels of the game.
As the governing body for rugby union in New South Wales, NSW Rugby supports hundreds of clubs, schools and rugby organisations, delivering opportunities for players, coaches, match officials and volunteers from grassroots participation through to elite representative pathways.
Her Excellency's acceptance of the Patronage reflects a shared commitment to service, leadership and strengthening communities across New South Wales.
Appointed as the 39th Governor of New South Wales in May 2019, Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC KC brought to the role a distinguished legal and judicial career spanning more than four decades.
One of Australia's most respected jurists, Her Excellency served as a Judge of the Federal Court of Australia before becoming the first woman appointed President of the New South Wales Court of Appeal. Throughout her career, she has been a passionate advocate for education, inclusion, community engagement and the rule of law.
In recognition of her outstanding service to the law and the Australian community, Her Excellency was appointed a Companion of the Order of Australia (AC), one of the nation's highest honours.
As Governor, Her Excellency has become a highly respected advocate for charitable, community, educational, sporting and cultural organisations across New South Wales, championing initiatives that strengthen social connection, volunteerism and participation in community life.
NSW Rugby Union Chairman Tony Crawford welcomed the announcement and acknowledged the importance of the Governor's support for the game.
"We are deeply honoured that Her Excellency has accepted the Patronage of NSW Rugby Union," Crawford said.
"Her Excellency's distinguished record of public service, leadership and commitment to the people of New South Wales aligns strongly with the values that underpin our game.
"Rugby has played an important role in the social fabric of New South Wales for more than 150 years, bringing communities together and helping develop important values including respect, teamwork, discipline and inclusion.
"The Governor's Patronage is a tremendous endorsement of the positive contribution rugby makes across metropolitan, regional and rural New South Wales and we look forward to strengthening our relationship with Government House in the years ahead."
NSW Rugby Union Chief Executive Officer Peter Murphy said the Patronage reflected the broad impact of rugby beyond the playing field.
"NSW Rugby is committed to growing participation, creating welcoming environments and using rugby as a vehicle to deliver positive social outcomes for communities throughout the state," Murphy said.
"Her Excellency's support is a great honour for everyone involved in rugby in New South Wales and a recognition of the thousands of volunteers, players, coaches, officials and administrators who contribute to the game each week.
"As we continue to grow participation across women and girls rugby, First Nations communities, multicultural communities and regional New South Wales, we are proud to do so with the support of Her Excellency as Patron."
The Patronage comes at an exciting period for rugby in New South Wales, with participation continuing to grow across the state and momentum building towards the Men's Rugby World Cup 2027.
