Historic club missing from the NRL for four decades plans to rise from the ashes in Perth

The Newtown Jets could return to professional rugby league in sensational fashion after aligning themselves with Western Australia’s bid to become the next NRL franchise.

After folding in 1983 due to poor finances, the iconic footy club located in Sydney’s inner-west at Henson Park have fielded teams in tiers below first grade.

But plans are now in place for a remarkable sporting revival.

‘It’s nice to be recognised and acknowledged,’ Newtown chief executive Stuart McCarthy told News Corp.  ‘It’s in the very embryonic stages. Western Australia has a strong case for a future NRL licence.’

McCarthy confirmed the Jets have ‘been approached as a potential viable partner’ and as a foundation club dating back to 1908, the club are ‘very supportive of Western Australia’s case for admission.’

After folding in 1983 due to poor finances, the iconic footy club located in Sydney’s inner-west are poised to return to the big time (pictured, club great Tommy Raudonikis)

Talks between the Jets and a Western Australian government led working party commenced in April where it was pledged the expansion team would maintain the Jets name, keep their revered blue playing kit and play at least one NRL game per season at either Henson Park or Leichhardt Oval.

Newtown would also be a feeder club to the Perth side.

In terms of a name, they could be called the Jets – or the Perth Jets.

It is understood the NRL want an 18th franchise up and running by 2026 – with the long term goal a 20-team competition.

The last time an NRL game was staged at Henson Park – which will soon receive a $10 million upgrade – was in 1990 when the Roosters took on the Sharks.

Newtown are also the feeder-club to Cronulla and have no plans to end that relationship anytime soon.

A fulltime rugby league team based in Perth wouldn’t be historic – the Western Reds, featuring the likes of mavericks Mark Geyer and Julian O’Neill, played from 1995 to 1997, with their last season in the News Limited backed Super League.

Newtown are a foundation rugby league club dating back to 1908 – and have legions of fans all over Australia

But with Optus Stadium able to accommodate 60,000 fans, the appetite for a second coming is enticing.

WA Premier Roger Cook said it is the opportune time to field a team in his state.

‘If the NRL is to become a serious national competition, then they need a WA team,’ Cook said. 

‘It’s as simple as that. ‘From my recent discussions, I am confident that WA will have an NRL team at some stage in the future. It is just a matter of how and when.

‘[ARLC boss] Peter V’landys has an ambitious and exciting plan to grow the NRL and the Commission now understand that WA simply has to be part of the vision.’