On 12th March 1890 a meeting of Pahiatua White Star Club decided on a motion of Mr Perry seconded by Mr Howell, that the Secretary communicate with the Eketahuna, Woodville, Dannevirke and Alfredton Clubs with a view to the establishment of a Bush Rugby Union. The letters were despatched and suitable replies being forthcoming, a meeting of delegates was held at Stewart’s Hotel, Pahiatua. The Woodville Examiner reported ‘At a meeting of delegates from the different clubs in the Bush District, a Rugby Union for the district was inaugurated. The Union will include Eketahuna, Pahiatua, Woodville and Dannevirke Clubs.

lt has long been felt that Masterton on the one hand and Palmerston North on the other are far too distant as footballing centres and the clubs mentioned are to be congratulated that they now have an institution closer at hand to foster football interests in the district.

lt was first proposed to call the Union the ‘Seventy Mile Bush Union,’ but as Dannevirke Club did not subsequently function in the area, preferring to remain with Hawke’s Bay the title ‘Bush Union’ was decided upon. During 1890 Tutaekara Natives and Whareama Clubs were formed, Woodville Club transferred from Manawatu Union. A series of matches played resulted in Eketahuna winning the. championship.