Wednesday, 13 May, 2015 VICTORIA THE BIG WINNER IN A STATE OF ORIGIN SHOWDOWN
One of the most intense rivalries will return to the home of Australian sport when Victoria hosts Game Two of the 2015 NRL State of Origin at the MCG.
Today, Queensland coach Mal Meninga and his New South Wales counterpart, Laurie Daley returned to the hallowed turf they made their own as captains in 1994, joining Minister for Sport, Tourism and Major Events, John Eren, ahead of the blockbuster meeting in four weeks’ time.
While the Maroons can claim recent bragging rights, the Blues hold the silverware after clinching last year’s series for the first time in almost a decade.
With a sporting cauldron as impressive as the great MCG, it is fitting Melbourne gets another chance to welcome State of Origin. We have hosted regular series matches throughout its history, including in 1994 when 87,161 Victorians crammed into the MCG – setting a rugby league record.
Victoria’s many sporting, cultural and lifestyle events are one of the key reasons why our state leads the way in tourism.
We are the sporting capital of the world, and our steady stream of visitors from interstate and beyond keep our state buzzing, our businesses busy and our economy strong – and that means jobs and growth. The Andrews Labor Government is committed to cementing the state as the major events capital of Australia, and included a $20 million annual boost in the 2015-16 Victorian Budget to strengthen the war chest used to secure events.
New South Wales and Queensland meet at the MCG on June 17. To book tickets visit www.ticketek.com.au
Quotes attributable to Minister for Sport, Tourism and Major Events, John Eren
“The State of Origin is one of Australia’s most intense sporting rivalries.”
“There’s no better place in Australia for a sporting blockbuster than the MCG, so it’s fitting our state gets another chance to host this encounter.”
“It’s another chance for visitors to flock to our state from around the country and the world, keeping our businesses busy and our economy strong.”
Media Contact: Patrick Lane 0451 661 919 | [email protected]