Group Nine gave the finals series every chance of going ahead but NSW Rugby League (NSWRL) cancelled all remaining regional competitions on the back of the latest Public Health Orders.

The governing body, like other major sporting codes in the state, were informed that community sport would not return in the foreseeable future and were left with no alternative but to call an end to the season.

Hinchcliffe was disappointed to see the season end this way but conceded it was the only choice.

"It's unfortunate but at the end of the day, in the grand scheme of society, it's probably appropriate. It's unfortunate but that's where we're at in the world at the moment," Hinchcliffe said.

"We've got to follow the guidance of those leading the way for us. We were happy to give it every opportunity and now we've got some clarity of what's required going forward it makes it pretty easy and more palatable to swallow."

Hinchcliffe said he felt most for the players, who had put in the hard work since pre-season only to have the rug pulled from under them on the eve of finals.

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He said the top teams particularly had every right to be disappointed.

"It's disappointing, absolutely. Particularly for those players who have worked so hard and had aspirations of winning a comp, particularly those teams that were sitting high on the ladder," he said.

"I really feel for those teams and coaches as well. A lot of hard work to not getting to cement that premier.

"At the same time, I'm grateful that we did almost get to complete our season and get as many weeks in as we did. I'm sure people will still reflect on that as being a good season however be we didn't get to finish it off."

Group Nine are still to finalise some details around the completion of the season but Hinchcliffe indicated that it is likely there will be no premiers for 2021.

Tumut finished three points clear of Southcity on the Group Nine table at the early end of the home and away season but won't be rewarded other than the minor premiership.

"We have had a discussion as a board and what we thought was appropriate for the premier. We think in these situations that it is pretty clear-cut, in our minds it was and we were at a consensus, that the minor premier be announced and the premier goes unfulfilled," Hinchcliffe said.

Group Nine will hold an online presentation night via social media in coming weeks to reward the season's top performers and bring closure to the year.

"We've got plans to have a production made for our award winners," he said.

"Obviously it's probably even more important now that the season doesn't get to be completed that we get those out as quick as possible. That will be a short production to announce and recognise those that were outstanding in their age groups or divisions.

"Just to really recognise and take stock for the year."

With the season coming to an early end, Hinchcliffe said a 'unique opportunity' opened up for the board to plan for next year and consider what opportunities might exist to 'change things up' and enhance the competition.

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