Maroons heading to Darling Downs
RUGBY LEAGUE: The Queensland Maroons are preparing for their biggest game in years as they look to bring back the Origin shield on July 13.
And in the lead-up to the huge occasion, Darling Downs supporters will have the chance to get up close and personal with their sporting heroes.
The Maroons are bringing their annual Regional Fan Day to Warwick on Wednesday, July 6.
A host of events has been planned for the day, as Queensland gives back to the local community.
Fundraising events will inject money back into the local league community, before a street parade, clinics and a training session will allow fans to see the Maroons in the flesh.
The Maroons feature an all-star coaching staff led by Billy Slater, with assistants Johnathan Thurston, Cameron Smith and Josh Hannay, trainer Allan Langer and mentor Nate Myles.
Among the stars set to descend on Warwick are Cameron Munster, Charleville’s Kurt Capewell and Daly Cherry-Evans.
Slater told QRL Media that it’s an important part of giving back to the community for the side, particularly after the impacts of floods have been felt in the Southern Downs town earlier this year.
“These fans’ days have a long and proud history of supporting regional townships who have experienced hardship due to natural disasters like floods and drought,” Slater said.
“Like many other towns, Warwick has endured its challenges recently and we’re really pleased to know that our group is going to have an opportunity to make a difference to the community in the area.
“At the same time, it gives us an opportunity to connect with the people of Queensland. This is an important part of our Origin campaign.
“The Queensland Maroons are an inspiration to our state. We look forward to bringing some joy to Warwick in July.”
Southern Downs mayor Vic Pennisi said the visit will act as a major morale boost for the town.
The full itinerary for the Queensland visit to Warwick is as follows:
Tue July 5 - Fundraising Dinner at Warwick RSL (Sold out)
Wed July 6, 7.30am Coaches Fundraising Breakfast at Warwick RSL (tickets at qrl.com.au)
Wed July 6, 8.30am Street Parade through Palmerin St, Warwick - followed by Community Breakfast at Leslie Park
Wed July 6, 10.30am - Junior Clinics at Warwick Rugby Union ground (register at qrl.com.au)
Wed July 6, 11.30am - Maroons training session at Warwick Cowboys ground (Father Ranger Oval)