Southbridge Rugby Club Announces Legendary Lineup For 150th Jubilee

In April 2026, one of Canterbury’s founding rugby clubs – and the home of All Black legends Dan Carter and Albert Anderson – marks 150 years of club pride and community connection through the sport.

Southbridge Rugby Football Club (SRFC) will host a thrilling three-day Jubilee from 3-5 April 2026, fit for rugby royalty offering high-energy clashes, a Q&A panel, live entertainment and auctions, limited edition merchandise, high-class catering, and guest appearances from Daniel Carter, Andy Ellis, Wayne Smith, the president of the New Zealand Rugby Union, and more. “There’s no club quite like my home club,” Dan says. “Southbridge Rugby is where it all started, and it’s even more special to be part of its 150-year history. The celebrations will be big because Southbridge never does things by half. I can’t wait to be back in April.”

The Jubilee is any superfan or devoted collector’s opportunity to rub shoulders with some of Canterbury’s favourite rugby personalities and celebrate the true meaning of country footy.

SRFC President Luke Palmer, who is a third generation club member – and the youngest president ever – says it’s an honour to share the milestone with his community. “Reaching this milestone is something very few clubs have had the privilege of doing, and it is a moment that belongs to everyone who has worn the jersey, stood on the sideline, helped behind the scenes, or simply called Southbridge their club.” Luke has held multiple leadership roles throughout his time with the club, becoming a role model who now inspires the next generation.

The Jubilee schedule, packed with JAB games, classy senior sides, and a must-watch Golden Oldies special, brings an element of community cheer to an already joyful Easter weekend. “Our strength has always been our people, the generations of families who’ve played, supported, and volunteered to keep this club thriving. For a small community, achieving so much over 150 years is something we can all be proud of,” says Club Manager Chris McMillan.

Since 1876, Southbridge Rugby Football Club has been guiding young players to greatness through shared community and charitable values. The club’s culture is a grounding force in its members’ development, with a storied history providing global opportunities to emerging and established players through international rugby tours. An ongoing commitment to the DC10 Fund, a partnership between Dan Carter and UNICEF, further solidifies SRFC’s responsibility to its wider community – and its acknowledgement to be part of a movement that is bigger than the game itself.

Tickets are available now via https://srfc.flicket.co.nz/ and selling fast – with ticket options ranging from the Friday night Meet & Greet or Saturday and Sunday Pass, to an all-access Full Weekend Pass. The SRFC community encourages those with a connection to the club to join the celebrations, reminisce with the rugby community, and rejoice in 150 years of the blue and white stripes. “The Southbridge rugby community is one big family. Whether you played with us, played against us, watched a game, or lent a hand over the years, we would love to see and celebrate with you,” Chris says.

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