Former NRL player Liam Foran has helped rebuild the Greta Branxton Colts in his new role as the club's captain-coach.
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The Muswellbrook Rams had also re-entred the first grade fold to make a six-team competition for 2020.
And the major sponsor of Group 21 Rugby League, mining company Bengalla, have committed to see out the year despite the disruptions caused by the global coronavirus pandemic.
It has left Upper Hunter officials hopeful of a return by the touted start date on July 18, but concerns remain about the viability of playing without crowds and the strain on volunteers if current COVID-19 restrictions stay in place.
Group 21 administrators and club delegates are set to meet later this month, following expected announcements regarding community sport out of national cabinet on Friday.
NSW government guidelines will also be a factor.
"We'll just have to wait and see what comes out of that and go from there," NSW Rugby League's Greater Northern regional manager Scott Bone said.
"But I know the clubs have all worked really hard to get to this point [six-team competition in first grade] and want to come out of it."
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Greta Branxton stalwart Mark Bercini said he was "keen" to get on the park in 2020 because the Colts, following the signing of Group 21 player of the year Foran from rivals Aberdeen in November, had grown from one team in reserve grade to a "competitive" force with four sides.
The Colts and Muswellbrook weren't part of first grade last season. Under 18s and ladies league tag are the other existing divisions.
If the main grades weren't possible later this year, Bercini suggested playing at least an "opens" style competition.
Group 21 are eyeing off a 10-round season, meaning teams play each other twice before a finals series finishing in October.
