RABBITOHS AND CANBERRA RAIDERS TO PLAY AT APEX OVAL IN 2022
The Dubbo Region is excited to learn that the South Sydney Rabbitohs will play the Canberra Raiders, at Apex Oval on Sunday 22 May, 2022 at 2pm. The success of the NRL game in 2021 has only heightened the expectations of another great game of rugby league in Dubbo.
The match in May 2021 had a sell-out crowd of 11,000 based on a COVID-19 restricted capacity which saw excellent economic returns for the region of approximately $2.4m. As the state re-opens it is hoped that the game in May 2022 will be at full capacity with another sell-out crowd which will come with increased benefits for the entire region.
CEO of Dubbo Regional Council, Murray Wood, has welcomed the announcement, and says the opportunities go far beyond an NRL match. “The match last year helped boost the region’s recovery from the effects of the 2020 lockdowns. Our region has been hit even harder more recently due to the Delta outbreak in regional NSW, so there is no doubt that a full crowd at Apex Oval in March 2022 will bring not only economic advantages but, social and community participation benefits for our region.
“I look forward to seeing what the Rabbitoh’s Souths Cares program will provide for the youth of the Dubbo region this year, following excellent feedback from their work in local schools last year. This program not only teaches kids key life skills but also provides the very exciting opportunity for those who might not otherwise ever have the chance to meet players and develop skills with some of the best players, and past players in the game,” said Mr Wood.
Rabbitohs CEO, Blake Solly, says he’s looking forward to seeing Rabbitohs members and fans fill the oval with members getting priority access to tickets prior to the general public.
“We’re delighted to be working with the Dubbo region, the CEO and team at Dubbo Regional Council; as well as the Member for Dubbo, Dugald Saunders MP, and the state government; on bringing a game to Dubbo. We’re sure it will be a great trip for our Members and supporters to jump on www.wotif.com/rabbitohs and book themselves a mid-year break in the central west of New South Wales.
“It’s also important for the sport to support those that support us, and the people in regional areas have shown they love their Rugby League. We’re happy to do our part in taking some games to these regional centres because all NRL clubs have an obligation to ensure that Rugby League outside of Sydney is strong.”
“Last year we launched a new Central West Rabbitohs Membership encompassing our games in Dubbo and the Charity Shield in Mudgee in February, and we encourage all of our supporters in Dubbo to jump online and visit https://membership.rabbitohs.com.au to see what’s on offer. This will be the second Premiership NRL game to be played at Apex Oval, and we know the staff have busily been preparing the field for the action.”
Those interested in staying updated about the Rabbitohs games can register their interest, by visiting www.dubbo.com.au and checking ‘Events (What’s On)’ on the sign up form located at the bottom of the home page.
Last Edited: 17 Jul 2023