When the pandemic hit, some in the club expected it would take years to recover from the financial impact. As a result of the lockdown, the Goulburn Workers Club could no longer continue its sponsorship of the Bulldogs, which left the latter without its primary source of income.

In response, a meeting was held and a new committee formed on October 13 in order to enable the rugby league club to overcome its current strife.

Committee member John Sykes said, despite the challenges currently faced by the Bulldogs, the feeling among players and administrators is optimistic.

"There's a really good vibe around the place," Sykes said.

"At our first training session a couple of weeks ago, I think there were seven committee members there.

"We want to get there and make sure the club's successful, and that starts at the top. The place is abuzz."

Though it was no longer able to continue sponsoring the Bulldogs, the Workers Club has allowed the former continued use of the Workers Arena and the pair remain on good terms, Sykes said.

In order to make ends meet, the Bulldogs have had to cut costs where possible, which includes players' salaries. Players in 2021 will not be paid by the club, but Sykes said most of the first-graders intended to continue playing in Goulburn regardless.

"We as a new club aren't in the position to pay any players this year, whereas in previous years there was a lot of money thrown around," Sykes said.

"So what we're saying to guys this year is 'look, we're a new entity, we can't pay you anything this year but please come on board and support the club'.

"We need to consolidate this year, get a financial base behind us, then have another crack."

While there are currently constraints on the Bulldogs' budget, Sykes confirmed the club is actively looking for new sponsors to fund some big changes.

Among the first announcements made by the club was its intent to field six senior teams in 2021, as opposed to four in previous seasons.

Along with the same first grade, reserve grade, league tag, and Under 19s sides, the Bulldogs want to enter teams in the Katrina Fanning Shield and the George Tooke Shield next year.

The committee, Sykes said, is in the midst of planning its 2021 campaign, and he expects further updates about their progress and planned changes following the Christmas period.

Those interested in playing rugby league in 2021 can attend pre-season training sessions every fortnight up until the Christmas break, after which the schedule will be updated. For more information, please visit the Goulburn District Rugby League Facebook page.

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