Supreme Court Judge, the Honourable Justice Geoff Bellew has accepted an invitation from the NRL to become Chairman of the NRL Judiciary.
Head of Football, Todd Greenberg said it was a coup for the game to secure the services of Justice Bellew who is not only a prominent legal figure but has extensive experience in Rugby League.
Justice Bellew represented players at the Judiciary from almost every club over more than 20 years before his appointment as a Judge of the Supreme Court.
These included some of the game’s biggest names including Johnathan Thurston, Wally Lewis, Jarryd Hayne, Billy Slater and Andrew Johns.
Mr Greenberg said Justice Bellew came from a family steeped in Rugby League history.
His father, Tom, OAM, was a former NSWRL Chairman and ARL Director. Justice Bellew is a former NRL Board Member and former Chairman of the Manly and Northern Eagles clubs.
“In other words, there could be no one more qualified and suitable for the role of Judiciary Chairman,” Mr Greenberg said.
“Justice Bellew has a unique set of skills and experience.
“He understands the rules and Judiciary Code of Procedure intimately and has a great affection for Rugby League.”
Mr Greenberg said Justice Bellew’s role would be to uphold the rules of the game and give the Judiciary panel appropriate directions.
“While Justice Bellew will not take a public role, he will bring significant expertise and experience to the Judiciary this season,” he said.
