The NSWRL High Performance Referees Squad will celebrate further success this weekend, with Jake Sutherland and Dillan Wells becoming the program’s third and fourth officials to debut in the NRL this year.
Sutherland’s appointment as touch judge for Sunday’s clash between St George Illawarra Dragons and Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks marks the reward for years of perseverance. A member of the High Performance Squad since 2016, he has officiated 266 NSWRL Major Competitions matches and overcome injury setbacks across the past two seasons to earn his opportunity on one of Rugby League’s biggest stages.
NSWRL Referees High Performance Manager Stuart Raper praised Sutherland’s professionalism and resilience.
“I am so happy for Jake. He is so diligent in his preparation and training, but on top of that, is a genuine guy that you like to see do well,” Raper said.
“His determination is admirable and, although quietly spoken, he is a real leader in our squad.”
Wells will make his debut on the touchline for South Sydney Rabbitohs’ clash against Parramatta Eels on Saturday, capping a rapid rise through the High Performance program since joining in 2019.
Having already officiated 211 NSWRL Major Competitions matches, Wells has built an impressive resume over the past two years that include appointments in the 2026 Ampol Women’s State of Origin, the 2025 Prime Minister’s XII, and being named both 2025 NSWRL Grade Match Official of the Year and NRLW Match Official of the Year.
“Dillan has advanced through our squad faster than expected, but he has earned every milestone through his hard work,” Raper said.
“He officiates with confidence and great ability, and I believe he will continue on this quick pathway and will be officiating in the middle in the NRL in the very near future.”
The pair have become the NSWRL High Performance Referees Squad’s latest success story, after Kieren Irons and Tom Cambourn made their debuts earlier this year, highlighting the strength of the state’s referee development pathway.
