Rugby league heartland turns out for Maroons

The Queensland Maroons squad was met by thousands of cheering fans in Rockhampton today for the official Queensland Maroons Westpac Fan Day.

More than 5000 fans got up close with some of rugby league’s biggest names including hometown heroes Cameron Munster and Harry Grant.

The annual regional Fan Day is one of the state’s favourite rugby league traditions, with regional fans getting autographs, photos and participating in clinics ahead of the State of Origin series decider next week.

Today’s event was held at Rockhampton’s newly upgraded Aurizon Stadium with Rockhampton’s deep rugby league heritage making it a fitting host city.

It is the hometown of Maroons captain Cameron Munster, who first developed his rugby league skills with the North Knights juniors. 

The wider Central Queensland region has produced numerous Maroons State of Origin stars, including Grant (Yeppoon Seagulls) and Ben Hunt (Blackwater Crushers).

The event was sponsored by Rockhampton Regional Council and Westpac.

“Rockhampton is true rugby league heartland and we’re so excited to have the team in town. As we head into the Origin decider, the Maroons know Rocky is right behind them,” Rockhampton Region Mayor Tony Williams said.

“It’s also really special to welcome our own homegrown hero and captain, Cam Munster, back to Rocky and see him connecting with fans.

 “Our junior players will remember this for years. Being able to run, pass and kick alongside their heroes is the kind of experience that sparks a lifelong passion for the game.

 “Central Queensland has produced some of the state’s greatest rugby league players, and we’re incredibly proud to see our region recognised in this way.”