We're still in the thick of cricket season but the winter sporting codes have already started planning their seasons.
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The Armidale Blues Rugby Union and Netball clubs will get into the swing of things by playing a sevens tournament in Crescent Head at the beginning of February before they host their annual rugby knockout.
The knockout is set down for March 14 and Blues' president Anthony McMillan said since they have released the information for the competition, they have had a huge amount of interest.
"We have limited it to 12 teams in the men's and eight in the women's," he said.
"We have had a lot of inquiries, we have got three teams locked in already, one of them being St Pat's in Sydney and then ourselves and the Baa Baas are all locked in.
"We have got interest from another three clubs in Sydney and Kempsey has already created a bit of interest."
Not only have the Blues planned their knockout, but on January 18 they will host a Farmers' Long Lunch for drought affected farmers.
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The club's publicity officer Catherine Stephen said they are aiming to lift spirits in the area.
"The Blues Rugby and Netball Club were looking to give something back to the farming community of the New England during this difficult time of drought," she said.
"We have always had a strong supporter base from the rural community and we are hoping that this small gesture might give local farmers an opportunity for a short break and some time to socialise away from the farm.
"We are inviting any local Primary Producers to come and along and enjoy lunch and a few drinks on us!
"This is a free event for farmers and their families."
Renowned bush poet Murray Hartin will be there on the day for entertainment as well as a host of local musicians.
To register their interest in attending, all farmers need to do is RSVP to farmerslonglunch@gmail.com or text 0491 749 276 by January 11.