For the first time in many seasons, both the Muswellbrook Heelers and the Scone Brumbies will contest their respective play-offs in 2017.

The Heelers are well-entrenched in the Newcastle Hunter divisional top four, while the Brumbies are in a similar position in the tough Central North competition.

Muswellbrook hosted the high-flying Southern Lakes at Highbrook Park on Saturday, as Scone went head-to-head with Moree at Brumby Park.

Both clubs are also celebrating major milestones this year, too, which adds merit to the achievements.