Footy fans will experience a sports extravaganza and the Coffs Coast economy will receive a welcome stimulus boost, thanks to the NSW Nationals in the state government’s Regional Events Acceleration Fund.
Nationals Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh said a $200,000 grant for the 2023 Cronulla Sharks NRL Premiership Fixture will allow as many as 10,000 fans to again enjoy the exciting atmosphere of elite sport in our city. Local shops, cafes, accommodation and other businesses will benefit from the visitor influx.
“The Cronulla Sharks are returning to Coffs Harbour, their home away from home, for the third consecutive year and we can’t wait,” Mr Singh said.
“I congratulate City of Coffs Harbour on their successful funding application and I look forward to the staging of next year’s NRL fixture at C.ex Coffs International Stadium.
“This event keeps getting bigger and better each year due to the tremendous support of our community and hard work by the entire team at City of Coffs Harbour.”
City of Coffs Harbour Mayor Councillor Paul Amos said that bringing elite, broadcast sporting events to regional areas is important for the growth, attraction and development of regional cities.
“Events like these also greatly benefit the Coffs Coast economy directly through visitation and spending in local shops and businesses – not to mention local fans and players of all ages,” Cr Amos said.
“We’re very excited to be welcoming the Cronulla Sharks and NRL back to the Coffs Coast and C.ex Coffs International Stadium for a third consecutive year in 2023.”
Dino Mezzatesta, CEO of Cronulla Sutherland Sharks, said “The Sharks are very much looking forward to again making Coffs Harbour our home away from home and building on the success of the previous two years by playing a home game in the region at C.ex Coffs International Stadium.
“Our taking a game to Coffs for a third consecutive season isn’t all about match day, despite the challenges faced around Covid restrictions over the past two years we have still been able to engage with the community, have experienced great local support and our fans embrace the opportunity to travel to the region and we know that connection with the Coffs Coast community will grow and continue into 2023.”