February 10: Menzies announces return; ARL Commission founded

On this day, a pair of Indigenous Test players are born and the Independent Commission is formally established.

1943

Australia representative George Ambrum was born. As well as playing two Test matches, the Thursday Island-born player showcased his skills for both North Sydney and English club Bradford Northern during his club career. Ambrum died at the age of 43.            

1948

The International Board is formed at a meeting between British, French and New Zealand delegates in Leeds. New Zealand officials represent Australian delegates at the meeting.

1984

Australia and NSW representative Greg Bird was born. The utility played 17 Test matches, 18 State of Origin fixtures and 235 club games for Cronulla and the Gold Coast.

2002

Essendon AFL coach Kevin Sheedy says the AFL code can become the No.1 sport in NSW and Queensland.

2012

Independence Day arrives for rugby league in Australia with the formal establishment of the game's Independent Commission. Inaugural chairman John Grant declares the first order of business for the Commission will be to negotiate a new broadcast rights deal which was estimated to be worth around $1 billion.

2014

Manly legend Steve Menzies announces he will make a comeback at the Auckland Nines at the age of 40.

2017

Johnathan Thurston inspires the Indigenous All Stars to a commanding 34-8 victory over the World All Stars at McDonald Jones Stadium. Canberra centre Jarrod Croker suffers a dislocated kneecap.

2018

Wigan and Hull FC make history in a Super League clash at Wollongong's WIN Stadium. Wigan claim a 24-10 victory in front of a crowd of 12,146 in the first Super League game played outside Europe.

This article contains information from the official records of NRL historian David Middleton.