Rugby Victoria is thrilled to announce Kiwi Hawthorn Rugby Club, a name synonymous with Victorian rugby success, will return to the prestigious Dewar Shield competition in 2025.
Steeped in a rich history spanning more than a century, the club will re-enter the Premier Division with the same determination and spirit that has defined its illustrious past.
The ‘Kiwis’ remain one of the competition’s most decorated clubs, boasting 14 Dewar Shield titles. From the thrilling 1970 victory secured by a last-minute drop goal, to the undefeated campaign in 1971, and a Wallaby-studded side in 1972, the club’s golden era of the 1970s firmly established Kiwi Hawthorn as a powerhouse of Victorian rugby.
The club’s return is driven by a growing roster of committed players and a clear vision for the future. Now settled at its permanent home at Lewin Reserve, Glen Iris, Kiwi Hawthorn continues to provide a welcoming environment for rugby players from all walks of life, maintaining its proud tradition of inclusiveness and community spirit.
As Kiwi Hawthorn looks ahead to its 102nd year, the club is ready to write a new chapter in its storied history. The return to the Dewar Shield is not just a milestone—it is a testament to the resilience, passion, and camaraderie that define Kiwi Hawthorn Rugby Club.
CEO of Rugby Victoria, Marcus Reynolds, said “It’s pleasing to see the Dewar Shield grow with the inclusion of Kiwi-Hawthorn from 2025. This decision sends a positive signal to Victorian clubs that with the right level of preparation and planning, entering the Dewar Shield is a possibility. Rugby Victoria did not make this decision lightly. When meeting the eligibility criteria, Kiwi-Hawthorn were required to demonstrate that their on-field and off-field business case was genuine and sustainable. I wish all clubs the best for the upcoming season.”
