Wallaby and Queensland rugby have added Townsville to the list of their regular Test fixtures in a new deal.
The Queensland Government has signed a three-Test deal to play in Townsville up to 2030 as well as a six-season deal with the Reds (Super Rugby Pacific) up to 2032.
The new deal will see Australia host Argentina at Townsville next year, Georgia in 2029 and Argentina again in 2030; the Wallabies are playing Japan in Townsville this Saturday.
The 2027 Rugby World Cup will see four pool matches played in the North Qld city while the Reds will play at least one match per season in regional areas for six seasons.
Rugby Australia CEO Phil Waugh says it is thrilling to bring more games to the region.
“Since our first Test match 127 years ago, regional Queenslanders proudly represented Australia on the international stage,” he says.
“Following the success of last year’s Rugby Championship Test against Argentina, and excitement high for (this) Saturday’s clash with Japan, Rugby Australia is delighted to confirm three additional Wallabies Test matches for Townsville.”
WALLABY DEAL JOINED BY REDS NEWS
Queensland Rugby Union CEO David Hanham says having more Reds games in regional parts of the state should help them identify more talent.
“The Reds love playing across regional Queensland.”
Sport Minister Tim Mander believes bringing Wallaby Tests to Townsville will strengthen the game across the state as his government chases more live events.
“We want Queensland to be the home of sport and the events capital of Australia,” he says.
“We also know when kids see the best players first-hand, they are inspired to get out and want to play the game.
Tourism Minister Andrew Powell says the deal is proof that they are serious about bringing more events to the state.
“…that’s exactly what we are doing, with another major international sporting partnership locked in for North Queensland,” he says.
“These international rugby fixtures … attract visitors, fill hotels, support local businesses and drive economic activity across the region.”
Assistant Minister for North Queensland and Townsville-based MP for Mundingburra Janelle Poole says the host stadium is world-class; it serves as home for the North Qld Cowboys NRL side.
“These fixtures will give fans a front row seat to watch the best in action while delivering economic benefits for local businesses, tourism operators and the wider community.”
WALLABY TEAM TO PLAY JAPAN IN TOWNSVILLE ON SATURDAY, AUGUST 15
(Jersey number in brackets): Angus Bell (1), Josh Nasser (2), Taniela Tupou (3), Lachlan Shaw (4), Lukhan Salakaia-Loto (5); Charlie Cale (6), Carlo Tizzano (7), Harry Wilson (8, c), Ryan Lonergan (9); Carter Gordon (10), Harry Potter (11), Hunter Paisami (12), Isaac Henry (13), Max Jorgensen (14), Tom Wright (15). Substitutes: Brandon Paenga-Amosa (16), Aidan Ross (17), Massimo De Lutiis (18), Jeremy Williams (19), Fraser McReight (20), Tate McDermott (21), Ben Donaldson (22), Filipo Daugunu (23).
