Get out of Sydney : The NRL must relocate before it s too late A Set the default text size A Set large text size
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As the continuing uncertainty of the latest COVID-19 outbreak affects Sydney, one thing has become certain: the National Rugby League must relocate before it’s too late.
In Sydney itself, games are going ahead without crowds, NRL teams already under stage 4 protocols and the entire greater Sydney area, including the Central Coast and Wollongong, are under lockdown.
In the past two weeks, around 20 NRL players, coaches and referees have been stood down due to breaches, either deliberately breaking protocol or just as a result of having visited an exposure site.
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Dysart will host an Intrust Super Cup game for the first time as part of the QRL’s Activate! Queensland Country Week.
Gladstone’s Marley Brown Oval will also be a venue for one of the Round 14 matches as the state’s premier men’s competition heads to the regions on the weekend of July 17 and 18.
The Mackay Cutters will play the Norths Devils in Dysart, while the CQ Capras will tackle the Brisbane Tigers in Gladstone.
Games will also be played at Richmond, Murgon, Chinchilla, Quilpie and Atherton.
The weekend carries significance for many current ISC players and coaches whose rugby league journeys started in regional and outback Queensland.
QRL Managing Director Robert Moore said the round was shaping up to be one of the highlights of the season.
“We’re grateful to the Queensland Government for its sponsorship and support of this initiative, as they share our passion for the game in rural and regional Queensland,” Mr Moore said.
“In my travels I’ve witnessed the excitement this event brings to regional communities, as well as our players and coaches who embrace the opportunity to travel far and wide to showcase their skills and engage with local fans.
“One of the best things about the round is the opportunity it provides for people to engage with game development officers, former rugby league greats and QRL directors and staff.”