MEDIA RELEASE EMBARGOED – MIDNIGHT THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2020 2021 CHARITY SHIELD DATE ANNOUNCED The St George Illawarra Dragons and South Sydney Rabbitohs will make their much anticipated return to Mudgee for the Charity Shield on Saturday, 27 February. This will be the fourth year Mudgee’s Glen Willow Stadium has proudly played host to the annual pre-season game as part of a four year partnership between Mid-Western Regional Council, the Dragons and Rabbitohs. Tickets for the 2021 Charity Shield will go on sale next month and fans are encouraged to get in quickly as numbers will be limited due to physical distancing measures set for major events. Mayor of the Mid-Western Region, Des Kennedy said the well-attended game is always highly anticipated locally and regionally, and he was excited to welcome the clubs back for a fourth year. “The Charity Shield is an opportunity for fans to experience the atmosphere of an NRL game and see their heroes in the flesh, all against the backdrop of our premier stadium,” Councillor Kennedy said. “This partnership has been a huge success for our region, from a social and recreational standpoint as well as economically, and I’d like to thank the clubs for their ongoing commitment to bringing the game to Mudgee.” Dragons CEO, Ryan Webb said: “The Charity Shield has been the crown jewel of the rugby league pre-season schedule for 38 years, and we are delighted to have Mudgee play host yet again. “The Central West of New South Wales has long been a stronghold of support for St George Illawarra. We are not only excited to play and raise money for a number of important causes, but look forward to doing so while engaging with our Red V members and fans throughout the local community.” Rabbitohs CEO, Blake Solly said: “Everyone at the Rabbitohs is looking forward to returning to Mudgee in February and reconnecting with our Members and supporters in Central West New South Wales. “We think it’s important that NRL Clubs give back to the regional areas that produce so many great players for our game, and the Charity Shield is a great opportunity for us to do just that, as well as raise money and awareness for the wonderful programs run by Souths Cares.” Tickets for the 2021 Charity Shield will go on sale at 123tix.com.au in December. Follow Council’s Facebook page for further updates. ENDS .