If you asked the North Queensland Cowboys 12 months ago for a round one opponent to help christen their brand new Queensland Country Bank Stadium, they wouldn't have thought twice.
Club games don't come much bigger these days than the Cowboys-Broncos derby, with the neighbouring teams having played out plenty of recent classics - none more so recently than last year's round 21 thriller.
Both teams are looking for improvement after underwhelming 2019 seasons – the Cowboys came 14th while the Broncos limped into the finals and were then demolished 58-0 by the Eels.
The arrival of Valentine Holmes for the Cowboys brings an enormous show of anticipation, with the former NFL and Sharks star ready to resume his NRL career in his hometown.
The state-of-the-art venue will be at the forefront of the Townsville community, who have waited patiently for a facility that matches first class stadiums around the world.
With the unveilling of the Johnathan Thurston statue outside the stadium in February, it's another 'JT' - Jason Taumalolo - ready to lead against a young Broncos forward pack with a point to prove.
North Queensland-based fans have travelled far and wide to watch their heroes take the field, from Mackay, Cairns, Mount Isa and surrounding areas, and in their 25th season it will be no different.
Queensland Country Bank Stadium
Fun Facts
- The capacity at Queensland Country Bank Stadium is 25,000, with a possible expansion of 30,000 in the future.
- The new stadium was constructed on an abandoned industrial site at Monkey Island.
- Turf was transferred from 1300Smiles Stadium to Queensland Country Bank Stadium in January as a symbolic Cowboys’ new home ground.
- The stadium's roof covers 80% of spectators and will withstand cyclonic winds if necessary.
- A separate grassed terrace outside the venue and beautifully landscaped surroundings are expected to become a new meeting point on a more frequent basis, also offering great view of the city.
- Naming rights sponsor Queensland Country Bank are locked into a six-year year deal with the stadium.
Enjoy all the colour of the game responsibly with a Bundaberg Rum at Cowboys Leagues Club, The Australian and the Seaview Hotel.