In June 2015, rugby league returned to the Queensland outback town of Bedourie for the first time in nearly 30 years thanks to the efforts of Rod Dahl (NRL Development), David Kerrigan (Queensland Health), the Queensland Rugby League and the main organiser in Bedourie, Trevor Stewart.
The inaugural Channel Country Rugby League Nines competition was held in the town after the ongoing efforts of the Diamantina Council changed a local park into a rugby league field.
Download the 2016 Channel Country Rugby League 9 poster here
The completion of the fields went right down to the wire with the goal posts going up the morning before the games.
The fields have been left open in Bedourie as a reminder of this event and they are also being used by locals who continue to enjoy their footy.
This year, the game is being spread even further with the “2016 Channel Country Rugby League 9s” to take place in nearby Birdsville, just 200kms down the road on Saturday, June 11.
This will be the first time ever rugby league will be held in the town and will no doubt be a major event in Birdsville and surrounding areas.
The Bogan Fleas and Fleaettes will again be participating with the Barcoo Bandits likely to defend their title won in 2015.
It is hoped more teams will nominate this year and enjoy some real entertainment both on and off the field.
The competition is open to both men and women’s teams with a total prize money of $10,000.
There will also be plenty of giveaways for fans.
Just like last year’s event, not only is this tournament about rugby league in the area, but thanks to the joint efforts of the QRL, NRL and Queensland Health; visits will again be conducted in schools and communities along the way starting from Longreach and heading through Stonehenge, Jundah, Windorah, Boulia, Birdsville and Bedourie aimed at Healthier Lifestyle Choices.
To nominate, team can contact Trevor Stewart on (07) 4746 1202 or 4746 1022 or by email via trevor.stewart@diamantina.qld.gov.au
