QRL confirms 2022 regional fan day

The Queensland Maroons will provide an uplifting experience for the people of Warwick and surrounding areas during this year’s State of Origin series.

With the backing of the Southern Downs Regional Council and the Queensland Rugby League, the Maroons will engage with the local community as part of their annual regional fan day.

Following the success of last year’s visit to Bundaberg, Warwick will be lined with maroon over two action-packed days in the lead up to the third State of Origin game.

The fan day festivities include a community fundraising dinner at the Warwick RSL on Tuesday, July 5.

Billy Slater’s Maroons will throw their support behind this event, with profits from the evening going to the Warwick Junior Rugby League.

There will also be a street parade along Palmerin Street and a best-dressed window competition for local businesses and residents to show their support for the Maroons.

Budding rugby league players will have the opportunity to take part in a junior clinic (6-12 years and 13-17 years), while fans will be able to view a Maroons training session from close up at the home of the Warwick Cowboys.

New coach Slater was excited about the impact the event would have on both his team and the community.

“These fans days have a long and proud history of supporting regional townships who have experienced hardship due to natural disasters like floods and drought,” Slater said.

“Like many other towns, Warwick has endured its challenges recently and we’re really pleased to know that our group is going to have an opportunity to make a difference to the community in the area.

“At the same time, it gives us an opportunity to connect with the people of Queensland. This is an important part of our Origin campaign.

“The Queensland Maroons are an inspiration to our state. We look forward to bringing some joy to Warwick in July.”

Southern Downs Regional Council Mayor Vic Pennisi said it would be a momentous occasion for the region.

“We are absolutely thrilled to be welcoming rugby league legend Billy Slater and the Queensland Maroons to Warwick for the Queensland Maroons Regional Fan Day,” Cr Pennisi said.

“On the back of drought, flood, bushfire and a global pandemic, the visit will be a terrific morale boost for the local community as well as our neighbouring regions who will no doubt come out to Warwick for the celebration.

“The jam-packed itinerary offers plenty of opportunities for the community and rugby league fans to meet their Maroon heroes.

“I’d like to invite the community in joining me and showing Billy and the team why the Southern Downs is a great place to live, work, play and stay.”

Full a detailed list of community activities across the Warwick Fan Day experience, click here.