Government and Capras combine to stage free rugby league show at Browne Park
The Palaszczuk Government is working with the CQ Capras so that families in flood-hit Rockhampton can watch their local derby game with Mackay Cutters on Saturday for free.
Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the people of Rockhampton were going through a traumatic time and thousands faced many more days of disruption and hard work before their lives would be back to normal.
“We’ve got together with the Capras to help lift community spirits to help with the recovery,” the Premier said.
"Central Queensland is rugby league’s heartland and I can’t think of a more appropriate way to lift spirits and help people recharge the batteries for the work that lies ahead.”
Member for Rockhampton Bill Byrne said he wanted the community to come together to cheer on the Capras.
“The gates to Browne Park would be thrown open at 1.45pm ahead of the Intrust Super Cup XXXX Rivalry Round against the Mackay Cutters which kicks off at 6pm.
“The action will be starting just after 2pm for the Under 18s and then the Under 20s before the big game,” he said.
“I’d like to see as many people as possible taking a break from the clean-up for a while.
“What better way to take your mind off your troubles than bringing your family to Browne Park for some top quality footy?
“I think it is important for the Cutters too as Mackay was right in the firing line when Tropical Cyclone Debbie hit land and their community is also working to put itself back together.
“It will be great to welcome their travelling fans.”
Sports Minister Mick de Brenni said: “In Airlie Beach this week I saw the smiles on the face of kids getting to spend some time with the North Queensland Cowboys after going through hell and back with the cyclone. I want kids in Central Queensland to get that same boost too.”
“No matter who wins this Saturday whether it’s the Capras or the Cutters – it’s the community who will come out on top.”
Capras CEO Dominique McGregor said the Capras players were determined to put on a great show for their community and she was particularly looking forward to welcoming the emergency workers who had helped the city cope with the latest flood.
“I hope the SES and all those who have done such a magnificent job to keep residents safe get chance to come along,” she said.
“About 75% of our first team are locals and they know what the community has gone through.
“We can guarantee the on-field entertainment will be something special. There’s always a bit of an edge to our games with the Cutters as they are our local rivals,” she said.
“Browne Park is looking really lush and in top condition.”
