Doubleheader returns to Suncorp Stadium

Published Sunday, 14 February, 2016 at 11:11 AM

Treasurer, Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships and Minister for Sport
The Honourable Curtis Pitt

Queensland Rugby League fans will have twice as many reasons to cheer at Suncorp Stadium on 14 May with the return of the Doubleheader to Suncorp Stadium.

The blockbuster will see the Melbourne Storm play reigning premiers, the North Queensland Cowboys, followed by the Manly Warringah Sea Eagles taking on the Brisbane Broncos for what will be a super Saturday of NRL.

Treasurer and Minister for Sport, Curtis Pitt, was today joined by club players and officials to mark the countdown to the event.

Mr Pitt said the Doubleheader provided fans with double the excitement, double the fun and double the value.

“Up to 12 State of Origin stars are expected to take to the field for what will be another great event at Australia’s best rugby league venue, Suncorp Stadium,” Mr Pitt said.

“Fans will see some of the world’s best NRL stars in action with the likes of Cameron Smith, Daly Cherry-Evans, Johnathan Thurston and Corey Parker set to put on a show across 160 minutes of action packed NRL.   

“No other venue creates an atmosphere like Suncorp and I’m sure fans will double the volume when supporting their team.

“I’ll be cheering for a Queensland double and will wearing my beloved Cowboys jersey.”

Mr Pitt said the Doubleheader would bring more visitors to the state.

“Fans love visiting Suncorp Stadium and we expect these Premiership games to bring thousands of visitors to the game from around Queensland, NSW and Victoria,” Mr Pitt said.

“Major events such as these on the It’s Live! in Queensland calendar support Brisbane’s $6.3 billion tourism economy.”

Manly Warringah CEO Joe Kelly said the decision to play at Suncorp Stadium was a positive one for the Club on many levels.

“This is an exciting opportunity for our members, sponsors and supporters to enjoy a weekend in Brisbane that combines two blockbuster games of NRL and the Brisbane Racing Carnival,” Mr Kelly said.

“We have always had a great deal of support north of the border with over 10% of our members residing in South East Queensland.”

According to CEO Dave Donaghy, Melbourne Storm has a great affinity with Queensland through Cameron, Billy Slater, Cooper Cronk and Will Chambers, and a growing supporter base with its feeder teams and Storm Academy based here.

“Every time Storm plays at Suncorp Stadium it feels like a home game and we’re looking forward to seeing a sea of purple in the crowd.

“The Doubleheader will help continue our engagement directly with our Queensland supporters and I’m confident we can make this a regular marquee fixture on the NRL events calendar,” Mr Donaghy said.

Suncorp Stadium General Manager, Alan Graham said previous double headers had attracted big crowds with the concept winning the support of fans and clubs.

“We couldn’t host this event without the support of the NRL, TEQ, the participating clubs and television partners clubs so we thank them for their ongoing support. It’s great that all key stakeholders have seen the benefits of such a move,” Mr Graham said.

Tickets can be purchased online from www.ticketek.com.au or calling 13 28 49 or at any Ticketek agency. Free transport is included in the ticket price.

 

Contact:

Treasurer’s Office – Lindsay Marshall r0447 316 432

Suncorp Stadium - Greg Adermann 0419 729 972