A golden era of international rugby is headed for North Queensland with Rugby Australia confirming that Townsville will host Wallabies Test matches in 2027, 2029 and 2030 as part of a partnership struck with the Queensland Government.
And with Townsville’s Queensland Country Bank Stadium already confirmed to host four matches at next year’s Rugby World Cup, the addition of Wallabies Tests against Argentina (2027), Georgia (2029) and Argentina (2030) will ensure an unprecedented line-up of Test rugby for the region over the next four years.
The Wallabies played their first ever Test match in Townsville in 2021 against Los Pumas and followed up with a famous victory over the powerful Argentineans last year courtesy of a match-winning 85th minute try to Angus Bell. Les Kiss’ squad will take on the fast-rising Japan at Queensland Country Bank Stadium this Saturday, marking their third Test match in Townsville.
Now, with an additional three Wallabies Tests confirmed for the region through 2030, Townsville will further enhance its status as a premier major events centre and international rugby hub by welcoming fans from across Australia and around the world for at least the next four years.
In addition, the Queensland Reds will play at least one match per season in regional Queensland for the next six seasons.
The influx of premium international and provincial rugby to North Queensland over the coming years will boost junior rugby participation in the region and generate positive economic and tourism outcomes for local businesses.
Queensland will also host the back-to-back Rugby World Cup winning Springboks in Brisbane in 2028.
Rugby Australia CEO Phil Waugh said: “Since our first Test match 127 years ago, regional Queenslanders have proudly represented Australia on the international stage. It is therefore extremely pleasing to be bringing more Test matches than ever before to one of world rugby’s greatest talent nurseries with the valued support of our partners in the Queensland Government.
“Following the success of last year’s The Rugby Championship Test against Argentina, and excitement high for Saturday’s clash with Japan, Rugby Australia is delighted to confirm three additional Wallabies Test matches for Townsville in 2027 (Argentina), 2029 (Georgia) and 2030 (Argentina). These are in addition to Wallabies Test matches in Brisbane, including the Springboks in 2028 and a commitment to stage a Queensland Reds match in regional Queensland every year through 2032.
“On behalf of everyone at Rugby Australia, I extend my thanks to Premier David Crisafulli and the Queensland Government for their ongoing support of Australian Rugby from major events to the community game. From today’s Townsville commitment, to the recent confirmation of Anzac Day Bledisloe Cup Tests, and with more initiatives still to be announced, the Queensland Government is driving positive economic, tourism and public health outcomes for the people of Queensland through rugby.”
Queensland Minister for Sport and Racing and Minister for the Olympic and Paralympic Games Tim Mander said: “We want Queensland to be the home of sport and the events capital of Australia and that’s why we’re bringing the best of sport to all Queenslanders.
“We also know when kids see the best players first-hand, they are inspired to get out and want to play the game.
“The additional international games from both the Wallabies, as well as more Reds games played in regional Queensland, will increase participation for grassroots clubs across the state and ensure all eyes remain on Queensland.”
Queensland Minister for Tourism Andrew Powell said: “We said we would deliver more events for Queensland, and that's exactly what we are doing, with another major international sporting partnership locked in for North Queensland.
“These international rugby fixtures strengthen Queensland’s position as the events capital of Australia, attracting visitors, filling hotels, supporting local businesses, and driving economic activity across the region.
“Securing events like these is about building a year-round pipeline of major attractions that give people more reasons to visit Queensland and showcase everything our regions have to offer.”
2027 v Argentina in Townsville
2028 v Georgia in Townsville
2028 v South Africa in Brisbane
2030 v Argentina in Townsville
