Parramatta Leagues Club Celebrates the Parramatta District Referees Association Awards Night
Parramatta Leagues Club was proud to once again stand beside the Parramatta District Referees Association (PDRA) as Principal Partner for their annual Awards Night—an evening dedicated to honouring the dedication, professionalism, and development of referees across the Parramatta District Rugby League.
Representing the PARRA Group, Chairman Mark Jenkins attended the event to present awards and personally congratulate this year’s outstanding recipients. His presence reaffirmed the club’s long-standing commitment to supporting every level of the game—from junior footy to senior competitions.
Referees play an essential role in the success, safety, and integrity of Rugby League. Their leadership on and off the field shapes the experience for players, coaches, families, and the broader community. Parramatta Leagues Club proudly acknowledges the skill, discipline, and spirit these officials bring to the sport week after week.
During the evening, PDRA Chairperson Mathew Picone expressed his gratitude, stating:
“Thank you for the wonderful support that we receive from the Parramatta Leagues Club and to Mark Jenkins personally for his oratorical address to our members.”
— Mathew Picone, Chairperson Parramatta Referees Association
2024 Award Winners
🏆 John Roe Junior Referee of the Year
Winner: Adam Allouche
Introduced in 1982 and later dedicated to life member John Roe, this award honours junior referees who demonstrate exceptional growth and consistent on-field excellence. Coaches vote for the recipient based on improvement and performance throughout the season.
🏆 Junior Touch Judge of the Year
Winner: Marcus Rowe
Created to recognise the vital contributions of touch judges, this award—donated by Life Member Ken McNaught—celebrates outstanding junior officials who excel in their role. Coaches select the winner for their accuracy, dedication, and professionalism.
🏆 Most Improved Junior of the Year
Winner: Jackson Lamont
Split into senior and junior categories in 2022, this highly regarded award recognises referees who have made remarkable progress. Many recipients go on to higher honours in officiating. Coaches vote based on year-long development and performance.
🏆 Senior Touch Judge of the Year
Winner: Lachlan Smith
Also introduced through the generosity of Ken McNaught, this award honours senior touch judges whose consistency and expertise enhance the quality of Rugby League officiating. Coaches vote for the referee who has excelled across the season.
🏆 Bob Jones Senior Most Improved
Winner: George Habib
Named after former Parramatta Leagues Club Secretary and long-time PDRA Patron Bob Jones, this award is one of the association’s most respected honours. Voted on by coaches, it celebrates referees who demonstrate significant all-round improvement—many of whom later progress to elite officiating pathways.
🏆 Ernie Bull Trainer of the Year
Winner: Lachlan Atkins
Renamed in honour of Ernie Bull—an Association stalwart whose service spanned more than 40 years—this award recognises excellence in referee training and development. The trainer selects the winner based on dedication, leadership, and impact on members.
🏅 Referee’s Referee Medal
Winner: Liam O’Brien
Voted exclusively by active referees on a 3-2-1 basis, this prestigious award acknowledges leadership, performance, professionalism, and contribution to the group. Regarded as one of the Association’s highest honours, the award was elevated to a medal format in 2024.
Celebrating Excellence in Officiating
Parramatta Leagues Club congratulates all award winners and extends a heartfelt thank you to every referee who contributes to the Parramatta District Rugby League. Their dedication ensures the sport continues to thrive, providing a safe, fair, and enjoyable experience for all participants.
We look forward to continuing our partnership with the PDRA and supporting the next generation of Rugby League officials.
