While NRL clubs and the Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) have thrashed out a funding deal, a request by The Daily Advertiser for reassurances from NRL CEO Todd Greenberg about country NSW has been ignored for three weeks.

Summons, a former Australian captain who came to the Riverina 50 years ago, says things have to change.

“Even though they were neglectful in that period, it’s even worse now,” Summons said. “I’m very disillusioned in the attitudes of NSW officials towards looking after the country. It needs a total overhaul.”

Fellow league legend, Steve Mortimer, has voiced concern about a lack of understanding of country issues in the game’s hierarchy. 

Summons, immortalised in the famous 1963 grand final gladiators photo with Norm Provan, says it’s time for change.

Voting rights in the ARLC are held by eight commissioners, 16 NRL clubs, the Queensland Rugby League and NSW Rugby League. 

But the NSWRL does not represent country NSW. 

Country Rugby League boss Terry Quinn is comfortable with the process, but Summons disagrees.

“He’s got to start fighting for more cash for areas that badly need it,” Summons said. “I think Aussie rules are conscious of expanding their game and I don’t think rugby league is, certainly in NSW.”

Group Nine president, Jack Morton, says the threat from AFL is real and league needs more development officers and some guarantees around NRL games in country areas in 2018.

“The bush is sick of the talk. We need some action,” Morton said. “You get sick of someone telling you they’ll look after the country.”

The NRL said its recent deal with clubs includes a 65 percent increase in grassroots funding.

“We all just hope that grassroots football doesn’t end at Penrith,” Morton said.

“Bush football is certainly doing it tough and you just hope they understand it.”