Kristie Laird appointed as new Chair of NSWCRLA

The NSW Community Rugby Leagues Association is pleased to announce the appointment of Kristie Laird as the new Chair of its Board, effective immediately.

Kristie is a seasoned communications and marketing executive with more than two decades of experience across health, education, and community sport. She currently serves on the Boards of the NSW Community Rugby Leagues Association and the Australian Wheelchair Rugby League, where she is a strong advocate for inclusivity and grassroots development.

She also brings strong governance expertise, holding an MBA with Distinction from the University of Wollongong. Kristie is a graduate of the NSWRL Women in Sport Leadership program and completed the Governance Foundations for Not-for-Profit Directors course through Sport NSW’s Female Leaders – Get on Board program in partnership with the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

With deep roots in Community Rugby League, including her current role as Secretary of the Kiama Junior Knights Rugby League Football Club and years spent mentoring and supporting volunteers, Kristie has a lived understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing grassroots administrators, players, referees, and coaches.

“I am honoured to take on the role of Chair at such an exciting time for Community Rugby League,” Kristie said. “With participation and inclusivity at record levels, my focus will be on strengthening relationships with NSWRL and the NRL, empowering volunteers and clubs, and ensuring the voices of grassroots rugby league are at the centre of decision-making. Together, we can build a sustainable, inclusive future that allows our game to thrive at every level.”

Kristie’s appointment marks a historic milestone as she becomes the first female Chair of the NSW Community Rugby Leagues Association, coinciding with Carolyn Campbell’s appointment as the first female Chair of the NSW Rugby League Board - the first time in the game’s history that both organisations have been led by women.

Executive Officer and fellow Director, Richard Kelly said Kristie’s appointment signalled a new chapter for the Association.

“This is an exciting time for Community Rugby League in NSW,” Richard said. “Kristie brings a wealth of experience, deep community connections, and a genuine passion for grassroots sport. I’m looking forward to working closely with her to further strengthen and grow the game across the state.”

Deputy Chair, Ian Robinson acknowledged outgoing Chair Nathan Waugh, whose leadership over the past three years has helped strengthen the foundations of Community Rugby League across New South Wales.

“Nathan has guided the Association through an important period of growth and change, and his commitment to grassroots rugby league has left a lasting legacy,” Ian said. “We thank him for his service and look forward to continuing that momentum under Kristie’s leadership. Her experience, passion, and strategic vision position the Association strongly for the future.”

The NSW Community Rugby Leagues Association represents more than 20 member organisations across the state and plays a vital role in advocacy, governance, and support for grassroots rugby league. Under Kristie’s leadership, the Association will continue to prioritise participation growth, volunteer support, financial sustainability, and strong governance across the game.