NRL brings game to Toowoomba

The National Rugby League (NRL) is returning to Toowoomba with the Roosters set to take on the Dragons on 22 August.

Three years after hosting its first NRL match in the Garden City, Toowoomba Region Mayor Paul Antonio welcomed the NRL’s decision to bring matches to regional areas of Queensland like Toowoomba.

“Toowoomba is a heartland for rugby league and it’s fitting to see a match of this calibre in our Region,” he said.

“This is one of the game’s greatest rivalries and as such, it’s exciting to think it could be played in front of 9000 people at Clive Berghofer Stadium.

“I’d like to thank the NRL and all the stakeholders involved who have worked hard to bring this game to our Region. I have no doubt this will have both a positive impact on our Region’s economy, as well as boost the spirits of our residents.

“I fully understand there may be some people who are concerned about any potential health risks however the NRL is working hand-in-hand with Queensland Health and has assured us strict protocols will be in place to ensure the safety of our residents.”

NRL CEO Andrew Abdo said the NRL was excited to be returning to Toowoomba.

“The pandemic is creating many challenges, but it is also creating opportunities. We’re really excited to be taking a game to Toowoomba,’’ he said.

“Rugby League heartlands are right throughout regional Queensland. We have some of our most passionate supporters in regions like Toowoomba and we wanted to ensure we rewarded those fans.

“I would like to thank Toowoomba Regional Council and in particular Mayor Paul Antonio for his support in making the game a reality.”

With the match set to be broadcast on national television, Mayor Paul Antonio said this was an amazing chance to showcase the Region.

“Events of this nature don’t just show how amazing our Region is, but they also encapsulate what we’re capable of as we move forward,” he said.

“A match of this standard shows the rest of Australia that not only can we host NRL fixtures, but also that we could host matches from any sporting code or significant event here in the Toowoomba Region.

“I applaud the NRL’s decision and look forward to seeing the two sides battling it out next Sunday.”

The NRL fixture between the Sydney Roosters and St George Illawarra Dragons will be played at Clive Berghofer Stadium at 2pm on 22 August.