Hello marlins merchant
Difficult to say for a number of reasons. Depth at Newington is a major concern. They field 6 teams in the open division, but still have to compete with Aussie Rules, who have two open teams and soccer has about 10 teams in the opens. So a lot of boys go elsewhere other than Rugby.
For me, the biggest issue is an absence of a large boarding house. As a day school, our boys have to travel long and tiring days, that squeezes the enthusiasm, out of our boys for Rugby, particularly with regards to training.
So I wouldn't advocate, any playing 3rd XV level Rugby, until New have a larger boarding population. Particularly, in years 11&12. Further, I believe Newington would need to field at least 8 teams in the open division, before competing one on one in the opens at 3rd XV level.
But you never know, as I believe the Concordia Club, would be a good buy as a potential future Boarding House. It's on Stanmore Road, not far from the school and could if refurnished house, a couple of hundred boarders. So one can dream, but having spoken to several Old Boys, this idea could prove to be popular. But the current Head, seems more interested in establishing a Glenngarry type campus. To which I would be opposed to. If parents want an outdoor educational program, send your son to Scots or Geelong Grammar. To me Outdoor Education is over rated and can be accomplished through the existing Cadet Corps.