The board of Parramatta Leagues Club (PLC) has retained its current structure following the failure of a bid to remove four directors at an Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) on 19 November.
The meeting, called by a faction known as the Make Parra Matter Again committee, failed to meet quorum requirements under the club’s constitution, with fewer than the necessary 100 voting members present. As a result, the EGM was dissolved without any resolutions being passed.
All existing directors continue to serve on the club’s board.
PLC president Greg Monaghan criticised the organisers, calling the effort a “farcical situation” and noting its significant financial and operational impact.
Monaghan reported with “great disappointment” that the EGM cost the club over $400,000, covering expenses like printing, mailing, and professional advice and support.
“All this on a process that ultimately could not proceed due to the most basic of errors by the organisers,” he said.
“Beyond the financial cost, this process has had a significant impact on our dedicated staff and delayed several critical projects that aim to enhance our club’s operations.”
The Make Parra Matter Again committee was led by Michael Barrilaro, who previously told Club Management: “I’m just trying to invoke a bit of change because the current administration doesn’t know jack about the [National Rugby League] game, and that’s why they’re making mistakes and putting them in the wrong areas of the club.”
At the time, Barrilaro also revealed that former PLC and Parramatta National Rugby League Club chairman Roy Spagnolo was quietly helping him garner support for the campaign.
Monaghan said the club will conduct a thorough review of all matters related to the EGM, citing concerns over misinformation and improper electioneering that he claimed harmed the club’s reputation.
“During the EGM process, the club became concerned with various statements, assertions and actions that were not in the club’s best interest, including misinformation and improper electioneering, damaging the club’s reputation,” he said.
Looking ahead, Monaghan is optimistic about the club’s “united, successful future”.
“It is crucial for Parramatta Leagues Club and Parramatta Eels to continue to move forward together. While some commentary has highlighted historical challenges between the club and its football program, we now have an opportunity to leave those divisions behind and focus on our unified, successful future. Together, we can build a brighter future for our great club.”