IT WAS a tour to do credit to a 40th anniversary.

Ipswich Junior Rugby League squads came away victorious from their development tour to East Maitland in NSW.

But it was more than just the game time that will provide the players with memories to last a lifetime.

While travelling, the tour party was accompanied by Mario Fenech and Channel 9's The Footy Show, which filmed different aspects of the tour for a segment to air on Anzac Day tomorrow.

The tour party travelled south during the Easter school holidays.

The group participated in several organised tours of the Hunter Valley and Sydney regions, including the Sydney Opera House, NRL League Central, NRL Heroes and Legends Museum and a dolphin spotting cruise at Nelson Bay.

The teams began training with coaches Robbie Bichel (under-11) and Kevin Smith (under-12) back in February in preparation for the week-long tour.

They each played three games of football against Nelson Bay, a Maitland Invitational Squad, and the "Test Match" against East Maitland for the Harry Langer Memorial Trophies.

The players were again billeted with players and families from the East Maitland Schoolboys Club.

"We were also guests of the Newcastle Knights at a training session and a stadium tour whilst in Newcastle," IJRL chairman David Nugent said.

The return East Maitland tour to Ipswich will be from July 5-12.

Planning is underway for a Reunion Dinner on July 6 to coincide with Ipswich Jets home games against the Souths-Logan Magpies.

It is hoped that previous tourists and internationals Allan Langer, Kerrod Walters and Ali Brigginshaw will be special guests on the night.

The IJRL appreciated the support from Shine Lawyers, the Ipswich Parents and Old Boys Association and major sponsors Dairy Farmers for allowing the tour to continue each year.

Tour Awards

• Best and fairest: Logan Spark (under-11); Austin Muliaga (under-12).
• Most consistent: Malasia Mala (U11); Osiris Newberry (U12).
• Most improved: Cade Scanlan (U11); Reilly Black (U12)
• Best back: Billy Lenihan (U11); Mapa Fifita (U12).
• Best forward: Logan Spark (U11); Cassidy Scandlebury (U12).
• Players' player: Samuel Inoke (U11); Reilly Black (U12).