Rugby League returns to after a 60 year absence. Tony Taurimu elected president for Appleby Leopards in 1976.

Rugby League returned to Southand after a 60 year absence. There had been no rugby league game played in Invercargill since World War 1. More than 50 people attended the inaugural meeting of the Appleby Leopards 

The first president was Mr Tony Taurimu who said promoting the game was important and two clubs were needed to be able to do this.
Patron:  Mr Jim Barnes
Secretary: Mr Dave Sinel
Treasurer: Mr Brian Gregory
Deputy Chairman: Mr Mike Sheehan
Club Captain: Mr Don Walker
Committee: Meesrs Doug Thomson, J. Kukutal, V. Goodall, D. Walker, R. Stuart, L. Barnes

Reference:  "Rugby League Club formed in City"  The Southland Times March 1976