No games at Browne Park to ensure playing surface is in peak condition
Momentum builds as city waits to hear if its bid has been successful.
Rockhampton
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Browne Park is currently off limits as Rockhampton waits to hear if it will host an NRL game.
The CQ Capras were scheduled to play at the city’s rugby league headquarters on Sunday afternoon but the games have been moved to Rugby Park.
It is understood no games or training sessions are being held at Browne Park to ensure the playing surface is in peak condition if the NRL gives Rockhampton the nod.
The city’s power brokers are waiting with bated breath to learn if their bid has been successful.
Rockhampton is believed to be one of five regional centres making a play.
Momentum has been building since QRL Central Division manager Rob Crow lodged an Expression of Interest with NRL CEO Andrew Abdo on July 12.
It was prompted by the ARL Commission’s decision to relocate the 12 Sydney and ACT-based NRL teams to south-east Queensland in response to the growing COVID crisis in Sydney.
The Rockhampton Regional Council last Friday committed $50,000 towards the $200,000 bid, which is being underwritten by the Rockhampton Leagues Club.
The Management of Browne Park Inc. and the CQ Capras are working together to host the game.
Speculation is growing that it could be played as early as July 31 - the Round 20 fixture between St George and South Sydney.
August 6 has been touted as another possible date, with fixtures on that day featuring Canberra and St George and Parramatta and South Sydney.
Crow said that Rockhampton had a host of factors working in its favour, including its proximity to Brisbane.
Browne Park had also been the venue for a World Cup game and NRL pre-season trials in the past.
Rockhampton region mayor Tony Williams said it was a great opportunity, and he was sure the community would welcome an NRL game with open arms.
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