NSWRL will introduce new concussion protocols into all its competitions this season, including an 18th man concussion substitution and a mandatory stand-down period of 14 days, in the interests of player welfare and safety.
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This will include the Newcastle and Hunter Rugby League competition, where the Gloucester Magpies play.
NSWRL general manager-football, Barrie-Jon Mather said the decision was made in the off-season following a comprehensive review of concussion policies and procedures.
"We are just trying to increase the level of care and err on the side of caution when it comes to head knocks and concussions," Mather said.
"All sports have taken their guidance from the same experts and the same studies and the NSWRL is doing what they can in the interests of player welfare and safety."
The changes this year will include the introduction of an 18th man concussion substitution, which will allow clubs to carry an additional player on the bench who may be substituted into a game only if another player is ruled out from concussion.
Players who are concussed will also be required to stand down for a period of 14 days and will only be eligible to resume contact training and be considered for selection again after receiving clearance from a specialised concussion doctor.
The new concussion protocols will take effect for the opening round of the junior representative competitions (UNE SG Ball Cup, UNE Harold Matthews Cup, Harvey Norman Tarsha Gale Cup) on Saturday February 8 and will be in place for all competitions across the State in 2020.
Meanwhile the Magpies started training for the 2020 season last week at the Bert Gallagher Oval.
Craig Murray will coach the side this year.
Ken White was elected president at the club's annual meeting, replacing Jack Ross, who didn't seek re-election.
Brian Holstein is the vice president with Frank Compton the secretary. Matt Green is the treasurer.
The Magpies enjoyed a strong season in 2019, making the final where they were beaten by Tall Timbers 30-10 in the preliminary final played at Raymond Terrace.
Gloucester hopes to retain the nucleus of the 2019 roster and should again be a force in the competition.
In other rugby league news the annual Michael Adams Memorial Shield conducted by the Mid North Coast Branch of the Men of League will he held at Forster on Friday February 28.
This will start at 7am with registration. Tee off will be at 8am.
The Men of League race day will be at the Tuncurry track the following day.
Canterbury Bulldogs will tackle the Canberra Raiders in an NRL trial at Port Macquarie's Regional Stadium on Saturday February 29.
