NRL CEO Todd Greenberg said today NRL Brisbane Magic Round had been a huge success, with almost 135,000 attending over the four days at Suncorp Stadium.
The NRL has announced that during the first ever NRL Brisbane Magic Round:
- Total crowds of 134,677 had been recorded across the four days of the round (an average of 33,669)
- Approximately one quarter of all ticketholders came from interstate
- Ticket purchasers came from 10 countries outside of Australia and New Zealand, including the US, the UK and France
- About 10,000 children were engaged through 23 school and junior club visits by NRL players
Mr Greenberg said NRL Brisbane Magic Round had been a phenomenal logistical effort and ultimately a successful event.
"By our key measures Magic Round has certainly been a wonderful success," Mr Greenberg said.
"The crowds have been fantastic and there has been a real festival atmosphere both inside and outside the stadium.
"Importantly though, we have seen some great initiatives away from the games themselves - 23 school and junior club visits, four Voice Against Violence workshops, as well as coaching and refereeing education events.
"The number of different jerseys at all games has been one of the really pleasing signs. With such a high percentage of people buying the three-day passes, it's clear fans embraced the concept and wanted to watch multiple teams, games and days.
"The city of Brisbane has been abuzz this week and our clubs and players should be congratulated for the way they have carried themselves.
"An incredible amount of planning and work has come together to make this a great success and something to really build on into the future.
"The success of the event is testament to the partnership between the NRL, Brisbane City Council and the Queensland Government.
"It's also very much as a result of the colour and the passion which the supporters brought to the event over all four days."
Tourism Industry Development Minister Kate Jones said the Queensland Government invests in major events that support local jobs and pump millions into the state's economy.
"Almost 135,000 people attended the first ever Magic Round - that's about 40,000 more than first anticipated.
"This is testament to the fact that Suncorp Stadium is the country's best rugby league stadium, and that Brisbane is a world-class event host."
Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said the Australian-first NRL Magic Round didn't disappoint.
"Footy fans came from far and wide to enjoy the Magic Round and provide a boost to our local economy with our hotels, bars and restaurants full to the brim with jerseys of every colour," Cr Schrinner said.
"After the great long weekend of footy, we look forward to building on the success of the inaugural event and welcoming the Magic Round back in 2020."
