NSW Nationals: NSW Nats backing Tamworth NRL blockbuster

The NSW Nationals in the state government have thrown their support behind the West Tigers-Cronulla Sharks NRL game to be held at Scully Park in Tamworth on August 13 with $229,136 in financial support from the Regional Events Acceleration Fund.

Nationals Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson said the annual game was a huge hit with the region’s community and provided a significant economic boost to the city.

“Tamworth’s NRL game at Scully Park brings more than 10,000 footy fans to watch some of the league’s best go head-to-head over 80 minutes,” Mr Anderson said.

“I know our home-grown rugby league fans are looking forward to heading along to watch a great game right here in Tamworth, rather than having to travel make the journey to Newcastle or Sydney to watch the game’s best.

“This event is great news for aspiring NRL stars who will have an opportunity to see the game’s best and brightest playing the game they love.

“The NSW Government’s funding commitment will help support event delivery while allowing for temporary seating and equipment and services so that we can ensure as many people from our region as possible can get through the gates to watch the game.”

Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW Paul Toole said the Regional Events Acceleration Fund is supporting the growth of existing regional events and attracting new major domestic and international events to regional NSW.

“Money is rolling out right across regional NSW helping local events go from strength to strength and putting regional NSW on the map,” Mr Toole said.

“We know that hosting events in regional areas attracts visitors to towns, and those guests will spend money in local shops, grab a bite to eat at a local restaurant or café, and boost regional businesses and economies.

“Since its inception, the Regional Events Acceleration Fund has supported the delivery and development of 85 events, with more than one million visitors travelling to the regional areas where these events are held.”

West Leagues President James Treloar said Wests were thrilled to be again hosting an event that brings significant economic benefit to the city.

“Wests have been hosting NRL games since 2018 and the annual event has been a big boost to the local hospitality industry,” he said.

“Accommodation is booked out while the NRL is in town and local hospitality venues do very well for that two-day period with an influx of visitors from around the region.

“We’re excited to be hosting the event again and thank the NSW Government for their support.”

The $40 million Regional Events Acceleration Fund is part of the $2 billion Regional Growth Fund, designed to support growing regional centres, activate local economies, and improve services and community infrastructure for regional communities.

Applications for Round Two of the Regional Events Acceleration Fund are now open and close 5pm Tuesday, October 4, 2022.

For further information, including program guidelines and eligibility criteria, go to: nsw.gov.au/REAFund