NRL edges closer to return of footy fans

THE long-awaited return of screaming footy fans to Queensland stadiums could be within weeks as NSW prepares to welcome back spectators from Thursday.

NRL clubs in NSW will be allowed to have patrons in corporate boxes from Thursday with the momentous ruling from the State Government bringing sporting stadiums into line with pubs and clubs.

It comes as the Bulletin understands health authorities are open to fans heading back to NRL matches in Queensland.

A Queensland Health spokesman last night said authorities had met with Stadiums Queensland this week to discuss these issues.

“We agreed on a number of principles,” he said.

“We’re keen to see people back watching sport, safely. Once we see their COVIDsafe plan, we’ll work these issues through together.”

When Queensland fans head back, social distancing will still need to be adhered to.

The last game played in Queensland was at Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium on Thursday night when the Broncos suffered a humiliating 59-0 defeat against the Sydney Roosters.

Regarding the NSW decision on stadiums, ARL Commission chairman Peter V’landys told AAP: “We’re very pleased the government have corrected the anomaly, because this was allowed in pubs, clubs and racecourses but not sports stadiums.”

Pending the approval of a biosecurity plan in NSW, each corporate room would be able to host one person per four square metres with up to 50 people allowed per box.

The exciting revelation comes as Queensland venues such as pubs, cafes and restaurants were allowed to welcome back more than 20 customers yesterday.