Parramatta Referees Shine Spotlight on Top Officials
On Thursday, 28 August, Parramatta Referees hosted an exclusive media afternoon at the NSWRL Centre of Excellence, celebrating the district’s top three referees for 2025.
The event was led by Parramatta Referees’ Director of Officiating, Ethan Murray, and placed the spotlight on three outstanding officials who have stood out this season.
A Prestigious Afternoon
To elevate the honour of being selected for grand final appointments, the top referees enjoyed a media afternoon for the launch of our Senior Grand Finals, which included a photo shoot followed by a round of media interviews. Adding to the suspense, none of the referees were aware of their grand final appointments until later that evening, when the announcements were revealed in the Brad Fittler Lounge which gave the night a different atmosphere from past years.
The spotlight shone on three of Parramatta’s most consistent and high-performing referees: Bailey Clark, Liam O’Brien, and Lachlan Smith. They were joined by NSWRL CEO David Trodden, Parramatta Junior League Board Member & Director Michael Karam & Director Of Officiating Ethan Murray.
Rising Prestige of Appointments
Grand final appointments are becoming increasingly competitive and sought after. With the NRL’s evolving player development framework changing the landscape — including the shift to non-competitive matches for U9s and U11s this year, and U12s following in 2026 the importance of these appointments continues to grow.
The evening’s announcements focused on Metro competitions, while the highly anticipated U12s to U16s junior grand final appointments are set to be unveiled in two weeks in grand style.
Parramatta Junior League Director, Michael Karam, highlighted the vital role referees play in the game and reaffirmed the Parramatta Junior League’s strong support for their development and success. He also extended his best wishes to all referees appointed for this weekend’s grand finals.
Celebrating Refereeing Excellence
Unlike players, referees don’t walk away from games with wins or losses. Their victories are measured in consistency & professionalism week after week. Moments like these provide a well-deserved opportunity to recognise and celebrate their hard work.
Director of Officiating Ethan Murray praised the trio, stating:
“The selection process was extremely difficult. These three officials have been outstanding all year.”
He also commended their workload and achievements:
“Bailey and Liam, both part of the NSWRL High Performance train-on squad, have balanced these commitments with district duties throughout this season, the 3 of them started pre-season training for Junior Reps back in November last year. The effort and commitment the 3 have shown this season has been remarkable.”
Looking Ahead
Parramatta Referees are proud to confirm the top three officials entrusted with the district’s grand final appointments for the weekend of 31 August 2025.
This celebration of refereeing excellence not only highlights the calibre of officials within the Association but also reinforces the growing prestige of what it means to be a grand final referee in Parramatta.
