Cootamundra are the dominant force behind the move, which could see the number of first grade teams cut from 11 to eight.

​The Tri-Colours are looking to move away from Southern Inland, arguing it has become too hard for smaller towns to compete with teams from larger centres.

They’ve been holding talks with a number of clubs for the past few months but their push for a new competition has gained momentum in the last few weeks.

Spokesperson Jeff White believes the move has been supported by six other clubs throughout Southern Inland and neighbouring Monaro and could form a eight team competition next season.

“It's looking now like things are coming together,” White said.

“We’re hoping things can progress on.”

Temora, Young, Boorowa, Yass, Crookwell and a reformed Harden have all indicated their interest in joining Cootamundra in creating a new competition.

Young have suggested they may have two teams while Grenfell and West Wyalong were initially interested but have elected in remain in the Central West after a number of changes were made.

Junee is another club that has the potential to switch.

White said the main reason behind the shift was that smaller clubs are finding it hard to compete against teams from Wagga and Albury, who can draw on a large player base.

“Some of the smaller country clubs over the last few years have struggled for numbers,” White said.

“We no longer can compete with the Waggas, the Alburys in things like that.

“If we had to play in a competition like that again there is a possibility a few of these clubs could fold.

“We see it as a mode of survival.”

Brumbies Rugby officials will met with affected clubs on Wednesday to further gauge interest and the knock on effect.

They met with Monaro clubs last week, with many keen to push on with the idea.

One of the major sticking points in the effect the move would have on existing rugby competitions but Southern Inland rugby manager Mick McTaggart said he was happy to see how the meeting transpires.

“I definitely think the (meeting) is the way to go,” McTaggart said.

"Get them all in, I don’t think there is going to be a magic potion to keep everyone absolutely happy but it is a good opportunity to do it now.”

What will happen to flung clubs such as Hay and Jerilderie in Southern Inland plus Jindabyne in Monaro is one issue expected to go against the proposed change.

Originally published as Cootamundra pushes for SIRU split by Cootamundra Herald.