Behind Every Beastie: The Easts Foundation

Hamish McCathie and son Max

By Angus Hayman

Since 1900, Easts Rugby has stood as a pillar of the local community. More than just a club,

it’s been a place where young people forge friendships, build character, and grow into leaders on and off the field. In recent years, that mission has gained new momentum thanks to the Easts Foundation, a driving force behind some of the club’s most transformative initiatives.

Under the leadership of Hamish McCathie, who took on the role of chairman in 2024, the

Foundation has evolved into what he calls "the most important piece of the puzzle in

fulfilling this club's potential." It’s a sentiment backed by the sweeping scope of its impact

from developing its own in house projects to forging training programs to even mentoring

schemes that nurture player welfare.

"People underestimate the importance of having such a solid foundation building your club," McCathie says. And Easts is now reaping the rewards of that long-term vision.

Among the Foundation’s most visible undertakings is the Locker Project, a new initiative that

offers supporters the chance to secure lifetime naming rights on individual lockers, while also

funding the construction of a grandstand on the eastern side that Woollahra Oval patrons

have been crying out for. Designed to host up to 800 Easts rugby fanatics the stand will also provide shelter from both the rain and the regular wayward tee shots from Easts veteran Dan England, the grandstand is set to elevate the game day experience for fans and players alike.

But the Foundation’s vision stretches far beyond bricks and mortar. One standout initiative is: Scrum School, led by Easts' own Jed Gillespie. The program opens its doors to front-row players from across Sydney, offering them the rare chance to learn from one of the best. It’s not just about building better props, it’s about fostering a broader sense of community and technical excellence within the game.

Jed Gillespie

Then there’s the Future Leaders mentorship program, which McCathie sees as a cornerstone of the Foundation’s holistic approach. “The resources and people in the Future Leaders program are second to none,” he says. The program pairs Easts players with seasoned professionals in the field of the players’ specific study area or early career, building networks that extend far beyond rugby.

At its core, these efforts aren’t just about strengthening the club, they reflect a culture where

they are bettering the individuals within it. Whether through elite coaching, educational

guidance, or simply providing a sense of belonging, the Foundation’s work reflects a deeper

philosophy.

"We are trying to ensure the longevity of the club itself as well as the people within it," McCathie explains. It’s an ethos that has resonated with Easts players, staff, and supporters

alike, helping to build a more inclusive, future-focused culture at the club.

McCathie credits the Foundation’s success to those around him. “Very lucky to have the team

I have around me to attack all the club's possible futures,” he says. It’s that collective spirit of

wanting to give back to a club that has all given them so much in different ways.

As Easts looks to the future, McCathie and the Foundation see this as an “instrumental time

to try and bring everyone together.” Whether through Gold or Lifetime Memberships, or simply by turning up on a Saturday to cheer from the hill, supporters have a vital role to play

in ensuring Easts Rugby remains a force in both sport and as a prolific community.

And while these efforts are ongoing year-round, one of the marquee moments for celebrating

the Foundation’s impact is the annual end-of-season Foundation Lunch, held the round before finals. It’s a time when the club comes together to raise vital funds, reflect on the year’s achievements, and look ahead to the bright future they’re building together.

Because at Easts, success isn’t just measured in trophies. It’s measured in the character of the people within it. Whether they are on the board or on the ground or leaning on the fence they all combine to represent the rich community that is Easts Rugby Club.

Secure your seat at the 2025 Foundation Lunch here.