Townsville is the elite sports capital of Northern Australia after securing the rights to host game three of next year’s Women’s State of Origin clash.
The announcement adds to a long list of major sporting events in Townsville.
Acting Mayor Mark Molachino said Townsville has proved time and again that it knows how to host major sporting events.
“The proof is in the support the Women’s State of Origin game got in Townsville when it was played here in June,” Cr Molachino said.
“Townsville smashed the record for game attendance as more than 18,200 people went along to watch it at Queensland Country Bank Stadium.
“This is bringing the game to rugby league’s most passionate fans and it’s another opportunity for our city to showcase how well it can host a major sporting event.”
Cr Molachino said the game would add to the already impressive line-up of elite sports that has come to Townsville.
“Council has shown its support for attracting high-level elite sporting events to the city on several occasions,” he said.
“The Professional Bull Riding (PBR) Grand Finals is a recent example, with record-breaking crowds of more than 9,500 people over the two nights watching some of bull riding’s best athletes from Australia, New Zealand and Brazil compete here in Townsville.
“The event also attracted international coverage and was screened to millions of homes across the world.
“Earlier this year our city was chosen to the host the Super W Grand Final in the rugby union, where Fijian Drua beat the Queensland Reds to claim the title.
“Every year, we back the four-time WNBL champions the Townsville Fire and the much-loved North Queensland Cowboys as they play on the national stage and represent our region.
“Queensland Country Bank Stadium was a sea of green and gold when the Matildas played New Zealand in front of more than 10,000 people during last year’s Trans-Tasman clash.
“Our city has hosted top grade rugby union, cricket, rugby league finals, motorsports and more.
“Council is committed to making Townsville a destination that embraces and participates in arts, sports, events and recreational activities.
“To have the Women’s State of Origin returning to Townsville is great news for the North’s rugby league fans and further reinforces our reputation as the sporting and events capital of Northern Australia.
