THE Snowy River Bears celebrated a milestone year of winning the Group 16 rugby league first-grade premiership at their presentation night at the Banjo Paterson Inn on Saturday night.

With all attendees in a buoyant mood after such a great season, players from the ladies tackle, reserve grade and first grade teams were all applauded.

After a stellar season, Adam Walters was a popular winner of the Club Player of the Year, Players Player and Best Forward in first-grade.

Walters and his first grade team-mates delivered the club and Jindabyne community its first, first-grade premiership since 1996.

THE Snowy River Bears have ended a 28-year first-grade premiership drought with a 20-12 win over Eden.

With a large Jindabyne crowd on hand in Narooma for the grand final last month, the side's efforts will long be remembered by the Bears faithful.

The Josh Hitchins led squad produced one of the club’s great performances. Hitchins praised his chargers for their efforts, commending the side’s mateship and willingness to work together.

“The confidence of this playing group is something I haven’t seen in all my time playing footy,” Hitchins said following the win.

The celebrations continued at the Bears presentation evening with accolades for players and club volunteers.

In a special moment for the Bears, club legend Mick Hamilton was awarded life membership for his work over many years, including as a player and now trainer of the first-grade team.

Mick's son Tristan who was part of the successful Bears side, and wife Alicia, were on hand to congratulate Mick.

A key member of the Bears committee this season was club secretary Teagan Wilson. Wilson was awarded Club Person of the Year for all her behind scenes efforts running the club. Wilson also won the 2024 Group 16 volunteer of the year.