City’s fun factor to be tested at rugby
RUGBY lover Colin Dwyer says we need to maximise the fun at this Saturday’s historic double-header Test matches to attract more big games to Townsville.
The Townsville economist, a one-time rugby player and coach, is encouraging everybody taking part in the Rugby Championship festivities to wear their best tropical shirt to add colour and fun to the event.
Mr Dwyer said it could be the difference to getting Super Rugby games in Townsville with the addition of Fiji to that competition next year, as well as securing World Cup games should Australia host that event in 2027.
“We need to turn the double-header into the most enjoyable footy event we can. It’s about how much fun we can have seeing the top-ranked teams in world rugby,” Mr Dwyer said.
“We will fill the stadium and putting tropical shirts on everyone will put a smile on everyone’s faces. We can demonstrate we are the most fun location on the planet.”
The city will host the historic 100th Test match between the All Blacks and Proteas from 5pm on Saturday, followed by the Wallabies taking on the Pumas.
Mr Dwyer said Townsville would be the epicentre of fun and footy.
“Townsville will host the Wallabies for the first time. Townsville will hear and see the fantastic and famous haka for the first time and Townsville will see the top three rugby sides on the planet for the first time,” he said.
“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for regional Queenslanders to see the best of the best.”
Mr Dwyer said many of his rugby friends were travelling to Townsville for the event.
“The reunion will be about fun, in moderation. The economic impact will be positive and huge,” he said.
“Also, the haka is one of the most respected cultural icons in sport. Seeing it live is so much better than watching it on TV. I’m really looking forward to seeing it and singing Waltzing Matilda.”