Auswide Bank and QRL combine to bring Origin to regional Queensland

Origin fever is set to grip fans in regional Queensland thanks to a special partnership between Queensland Rugby League and Auswide Bank.

Over five days in late April, some of the biggest names in Queensland rugby league will be involved in a series of community events in Townsville, Mackay, Rockhampton and Bundaberg.

It is all part of the Auswide Bank Regional Roadshow, a unique initiative that will provide regional fans with the opportunity to soak up the Origin hype by rubbing shoulders with coach Kevin Walters and former players Matt Scott and Matt Gillett.

Harvey Norman Queensland Maroons star Tallisha Harden will also be on hand to share stories and inspire the next generation of female athletes as excitement builds ahead of the women’s Origin clash on the Sunshine Coast.

Tickets are now selling to dinner events in each city, with funds to support local junior rugby league,

Other community activities include Auswide Bank branch visits and “breakfast with the stars”.

Auswide Bank managing director Martin Barrett said it was shaping up to be a terrific few days in rugby league heartland.

“We understand it is often challenging for regional Queenslanders to experience the excitement of Origin, so it gives us great joy to play a part in bringing a taste of Origin to the people who love the game in these areas,” Barrett said.

“Auswide Bank is a ‘Queenslander’ and is proud to call regional Queensland home which makes this initiative very important to us as we continue to support our communities.

“We thank Kevvie and the current and former Maroons for giving up their time to be a part of this experience.”

QRL managing director Robert Moore thanked Auswide Bank for its continued investment into the game.  

“Regional and outback areas continue to produce some of the greatest Origin footballers of all time, and the fans are some of the team’s most passionate supporters every year,” Moore said.

“This is a small way of saying thank you as we celebrate 40 years of Origin before and during the 2020 series.”

For full details, including dates and times, visit qrl.com.au/roadshow.