The Yass Magpies Reserve Grade side heads into a pivotal weekend of the 2026 Canberra Region Rugby League season with renewed belief and a landmark to celebrate. Club stalwart Chris Rawlinson will run out for his 300th game in the black-and-white jersey, a remarkable achievement built on years of dual-grade service and commitment to the Magpies while fitting in more than 4 years representing Binalong in George Tooke Shield.
Rawlinson, who reached his 200th game back in 2017 while regularly playing both Reserve and First Grade in the same day, has embodied the club’s grit through fluctuating fortunes. His milestone this weekend adds extra spice to an already important clash as the Reserves look to strengthen their position in the finals race.
The Times caught up with Rawlinson who was quick to divert attention away from himself.
“We played on the weekend and beat Gunghalin 16-6. They will be a threat for the finals as they are in the top four. We have one game left for the season and then the semis.”
“I will play my 300th game in the last comp game at Yass.”
It has been said that ‘Rawlo’ as he is known is playing the best football that some of the older folk have seen him play.
He conceded that he doesn’t feel like he is playing under pressure. And is enjoying his footy.
The passes that Rawlinson is throwing at the moment are just hitting blokes on the chest and it makes it that much easier for them.
“I think we have got a good squad and I think if Westy’s lose this weekend and we win … we should win by a fair amount, maybe, we could push for first spot. So if everything goes right, hopefully we will finish 1st and 2nd.
“Gunghalin might lose this weekend. They’ve got the other top 4 team in West Belconnen, they are on top.
Them and Tuggeranong are probably the ones to look out for.”
“We play Woden this week. First plays second and they go through and then three plays four. We get a week off of we win first or second, so hopefully we make it 1st 2nd and get two chances.
First Grade has made an announcement for 2027 with Rana Baker returning with co coach Lucas Thomson joining Rana.
The Yass Magpies announced Lucas Thomson and Rana Baker as their First Grade coaches for the 2027 season on the 16th August.
Lucas brings an impressive playing background, making his NSW Cup debut in 2023 before stints with Cessnock, Macquarie and the Queanbeyan Kangaroos. A premiership winner with the Roos in 2024, Monaro Colts representative and 2025 leading point scorer and Centre of the Year, Lucas brings plenty of experience and footy knowledge to Yass.
Joining Lucas is Rana, who has been part of the Magpies for the past three years and will continue in the coaching role after leading the side in 2026. Rana’s commitment to the Magpies has been second to none, always getting behind our players and putting his hand up to support the club both on and off the field.
The Club is excited to have these two leading the First Grade squad into 2027 and they can’t wait to see what they can achieve together.
After a difficult 2025 that left the club near the bottom of the ladder, the Magpies entered 2026 with fresh determination. The Reserve Grade side has been the bright performer. By mid-season they sat in the top five with three wins from six matches, showing dominant starts, clinical finishing, and a positive points differential built on combined forward and backline tries plus steadier goal-kicking. Average winning margins hovered around 14 points in successful outings.
As the season has progressed into the business end (late August), the Reserves remain competitive and well-placed for a top-four tilt. In fact if they get a solid win in Rawlinsons’ 300th and another match’s result goes their way, they may end up in first position heading in to the finals. Depth and momentum have been strengths, with emerging players stepping up alongside experienced heads.
This weekend’s opponent West Belconnen will have to be overcome first.
Grand Final chances – the numbers and the reality
Based on mid-to-late season trends, form, and historical context, Reserve Grade’s prospects look the most encouraging of the Magpies’ senior teams. Analysts and local observers earlier rated their chances of sneaking into the top four at around 40-50 per cent, with a genuine dark-horse shot at the title if the current momentum continues and key players stay fit.
Rawlinson’s 300th will provide the emotional lift. Teammates and the Walker Park faithful will be keen to mark the occasion with a victory that keeps the Reserves’ September dreams alive. Whether or not the Magpies ultimately hoist the trophy, the 2026 Reserve Grade story already reflects progress, resilience, and the enduring spirit of a proud country club.
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