‘Positive’ response to city’s offer to host NRL team

THE Toowoomba Chamber of Commerce has received a “positive” response from Australian Rugby League chairman Peter V’landys to its offer of hosting an NRL team.

Rugby League chairman Peter Peter V'landys at Rugby League Central in Sydney on Friday, 22 May, 2020. Picture: Nikki Short

THE Toowoomba Chamber of Commerce has received a "positive" response from Australian Rugby League chairman Peter V'landys to its offer of hosting an NRL team in the Garden City.

Chamber president Harrison Humphries said Mr V'landys "thanked us for our letter and the offer to host an NRL team during the COVID-19-affected NRL season".

"They appreciated our support and offer during what is a challenge time, and they understand that the Clive Berghofer Stadium is well-equipped to host games, and there was no doubt the entire community would be extremely welcoming," Mr Humphries said.

"The reason he gave for not committing to sending an NRL team here was that clubs are either established at their traditional training venue, or at venues near temporary home grounds.

"Should circumstances change, they'll keep Toowoomba in mind."

Mr Humphries said the chamber thought Mr V'landys letter was a good sign.

"I thought it was positive that he came back to us so promptly and look, he didn't give too much away … but it was only positive," Mr Humphries said.

Looking ahead, Mr Humphries said the chamber was monitoring the situation in New South Wales and in particular, Sydney.

"I see they have declared all of the greater Sydney area a hotspot, so the situation there seems to be worsening," he said.

"Now whether that impacts on the NRL … we'll just have to wait and see.

"We'll make contact with Peter again if we hear of more serious consideration given to clubs other than the Warriors and Storm heading north."

The chamber's original offer to Mr V'landys had the support of Toowoomba Rugby League, Toowoomba Regional Council, and Toowoomba Wellcamp Airport.

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