Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said securing major events that stimulate the Gold Coast’s economy was an important following lockdowns in Queensland and New South Wales over the school holidays.
“No matter the result on Wednesday night, the Gold Coast will be the winner,” the Premier said.
“Thousands of fans will pack out Cbus Stadium, injecting millions of dollars into businesses and supporting local jobs.
“This is only possible thanks to the way Gold Coasters have followed restrictions and responded to the pandemic.”
Sport Minister Stirling Hinchliffe said it was the first time in Origin’s history all three games would be played in Queensland.
“We know many Queenslanders will be thinking of the difficulties of family and friends in the Greater Sydney area affected by the extended COVID-19 lockdown,” Mr Hinchliffe said.
“The Queensland Government has always said we’re willing and able to assist the NRL if the need arises.
“We brought Origin One to Townsville when it couldn’t be played in Melbourne.
“Now with the NRL facing the prospect of the final State of Origin being played to an empty stadium in Newcastle, we’ve been able to help again by securing the game for the Gold Coast.”
Mr Hinchliffe said the last game of the series would be played in front of up to 27,000 at Cbus Super Stadium.
“The Maroons will be looking for redemption and the Gold Coast is the perfect place to find it.”
NRL Head of Football Graham Annesley thanked the City of Gold Coast for acting quicky to secure the final Origin event.
“It’s great that it’s coming here to the Gold Coast, this will be the third Origin game this year played in Queensland which is history in itself,” Mr Annesley said.
“The people of the Gold Coast and South East Queensland, we know what mad rugby league supports they are.
“This is rugby league heartland and we’re very confident given good weather we’ll get a full house here on Wednesday night.
“Although the series has already been decided this is a great opportunity for Queensland to restore some of the pride and passion that goes with Origin.
“So, it doesn’t matter if a series is alive or not whenever you play Origin the passion boils over not only from the players but also the fans.
“It’s a wonderful opportunity for Rugby League fans in South East Queensland.”
Tickets are on sale from tomorrow.
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