Dedicated Referee Travels 7500 Kilometers

In a display of remarkable commitment and passion for the game, young referee Nicholas Willer recently undertook an extraordinary journey that spanned more than 7,500 kilometers across three states in just a few days — all in the name of rugby league.

Based in Macksville, NSW, Nicholas travelled to Darwin, NT to support officiating across the NRL NT Darwin junior and senior competitions. Arriving on Friday 18th July he wasted no time getting involved, running out on the field for games that evening and continuing all day Saturday, bringing his professionalism and energy to every whistle.

But the story didn’t end there.

In the early hours of Sunday morning 20th July, Nicholas boarded a return flight not to rest, but to head straight back to Grafton, NSW, where he once again donned the whistle to support his local referee association by officiating on Sunday afternoon.

Then, in a truly inspirational display of endurance and dedication, Nicholas began a new chapter on Monday morning, his first day as a Game Development Officer for the NRL.

It’s hard to imagine a better way to demonstrate the kind of work ethic, resilience and heart that rugby league thrives on.

“Giving Back to the Game That Gave Me So Much”

Nicholas’s journey into officiating and development started as a young player and volunteer who simply loved the game. Through the support of his local referee association and the broader rugby league community, he has turned that passion into purpose not only by excelling as a match official but now also by shaping the next generation of players, referees and volunteers.

“Rugby league has given me so much over the years friends, mentors, confidence and purpose,” Nicholas said. “Being able to travel and give back, whether it’s in the Top End or back home in NSW, is something I’ll always be proud to do.”

A Message from NRL NT

NRL NT would like to sincerely thank Nicholas for his contribution to our local competitions during his recent trip. His professionalism, attitude and willingness to step up in a new environment reflect exactly the kind of culture we aim to foster in rugby league across the Northern Territory.

We also extend our warmest congratulations on his appointment as an NRL Game Development Officer. Nicholas will no doubt be an asset in his new role, using his lived experience and on-field knowledge to strengthen grassroots rugby league.

It is important to acknowledge the NSW Rugby League, Queensland Rugby League and NRL Community Officiating team for their continued support of our local game.

Kilometers Travelled:

• Macksville to Darwin (via Brisbane): ~3,600 km
• Darwin to Grafton (via Brisbane): ~3,900 km
• Total travel distance: Over 7,500 km in just three days

Nicholas Willer represents everything that’s great about the game commitment, humility, and a drive to give back. His journey is a timely reminder that rugby league’s heartbeat lies not just in stadiums or big crowds, but in the everyday heroes who go above and beyond, week in and week out.

#RespectTheRef #GameDevelopment #NRLNT #GrassrootsHeroes #OurHouseHasRules#RugbyLeagueFamily

Images by Donnas Piccies