Supercars clutch New Zealand double-header for 2026
Drivers will take their title hunt to Ruapuna Raceway in the touring car category's first visit to the South Island.
The venue is located 15km west of Christchurch and will host Supercars events until at least the end of the 2028 season.
Outgoing Supercars chief executive Shane Howard described the double-header as a dream come true, adding that New Zealand fans make up 20 per cent of the sport's total audience.
"This is an incredibly exciting day for Supercars and for fans across New Zealand," Howard said in a statement.
"Christchurch is a motorsport city, and Ruapuna is a circuit with huge potential.
"This is a passionate community with a proud history, and we are thrilled to bring Supercars to the South Island for the first time.
"We know what Supercars means to New Zealanders. This is going to be a two-week celebration of Kiwi motorsport that will rival any on our calendar."
Friday's announcement comes after a popular return to New Zealand in 2024.
Taupo International Motorsport Park has hosted Supercars events with much success after fan favourite Pukehoke Park was converted to a thoroughbred racing track in 2022.
More than 67,000 fans attended the inaugural Taupo event across three days, with Kiwi star Matt Payne collecting the coveted Jason Richards Memorial Trophy following two race wins this year.
Taupo will also remain on the Supercars calendar until 2028.
Supercars fans will be treated to a New Zealand double-header with a trip to Christchurch added for the 2026 championship and onwards.
Drivers will take their title hunt to Ruapuna Raceway in the touring car category's first visit to the South Island.
The venue is located 15km west of Christchurch and will host Supercars events until at least the end of the 2028 season.
Outgoing Supercars chief executive Shane Howard described the double-header as a dream come true, adding that New Zealand fans make up 20 per cent of the sport's total audience.
"This is an incredibly exciting day for Supercars and for fans across New Zealand," Howard said in a statement.
"Christchurch is a motorsport city, and Ruapuna is a circuit with huge potential.
"This is a passionate community with a proud history, and we are thrilled to bring Supercars to the South Island for the first time.
"We know what Supercars means to New Zealanders. This is going to be a two-week celebration of Kiwi motorsport that will rival any on our calendar."
Friday's announcement comes after a popular return to New Zealand in 2024.
Taupo International Motorsport Park has hosted Supercars events with much success after fan favourite Pukehoke Park was converted to a thoroughbred racing track in 2022.
More than 67,000 fans attended the inaugural Taupo event across three days, with Kiwi star Matt Payne collecting the coveted Jason Richards Memorial Trophy following two race wins this year.
Taupo will also remain on the Supercars calendar until 2028.
Supercars fans will be treated to a New Zealand double-header with a trip to Christchurch added for the 2026 championship and onwards.
Drivers will take their title hunt to Ruapuna Raceway in the touring car category's first visit to the South Island.
The venue is located 15km west of Christchurch and will host Supercars events until at least the end of the 2028 season.
Outgoing Supercars chief executive Shane Howard described the double-header as a dream come true, adding that New Zealand fans make up 20 per cent of the sport's total audience.
"This is an incredibly exciting day for Supercars and for fans across New Zealand," Howard said in a statement.
"Christchurch is a motorsport city, and Ruapuna is a circuit with huge potential.
"This is a passionate community with a proud history, and we are thrilled to bring Supercars to the South Island for the first time.
"We know what Supercars means to New Zealanders. This is going to be a two-week celebration of Kiwi motorsport that will rival any on our calendar."
Friday's announcement comes after a popular return to New Zealand in 2024.
Taupo International Motorsport Park has hosted Supercars events with much success after fan favourite Pukehoke Park was converted to a thoroughbred racing track in 2022.
More than 67,000 fans attended the inaugural Taupo event across three days, with Kiwi star Matt Payne collecting the coveted Jason Richards Memorial Trophy following two race wins this year.
Taupo will also remain on the Supercars calendar until 2028.
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The Advertiser
3 days ago
- The Advertiser
We're hosting the women, but will we ever land a men's Magic Round?
Sports and tourism leaders believe Newcastle should "go big" and position itself to take the NRL's Magic Round away from Brisbane, spruiking the Hunter's credentials ahead of the inaugural women's event this weekend. McDonald Jones Stadium in Broadmeadow is hosting the first NRLW Magic Round across Saturday and Sunday, where all six games will be played at the one venue. The women's round has been launched after the success of the men's event which has been held annually in Brisbane since 2019. The forecast rain might put a dampener on crowds at the women's version, but that hasn't diminished a view that Newcastle would be more than capable of hosting the men's Magic Round too. "We should strive for any event, as we have in relation to this one and as we have done with the events we've seen so successful [in the past]. You have to go big for the future," former rugby league administrator and Hunter resident, John Quayle, told the Newcastle Herald. "It doesn't happen just overnight, because cities now, in every event, are going to bid for the long term. They want it for their city. They don't want one-offs. "It's like the Grand Prix or Supercars, they are international events and with exposure sent around the world that you can't buy." As it stands, Brisbane will host the men's Magic Round until at least 2027, while a five-year extension has been mooted through to the 2032 Olympics. The Queensland government's strong financial support has kept the event in the Sunshine State since its inception. But whether its popularity ultimately wanes in Brisbane and the NRL opts to move it, remains to be seen. The NRL Nines suffered that fate after several years in Auckland before being revived and relocated to Perth in 2020. It hasn't been held since as the sport has generally moved away from the format at the elite level. Newcastle's track record in terms of hosting major sporting events speaks for itself. In the past year alone, the city has hosted the Wallabies, Wallaroos, Matildas and Women's State of Origin. The national women's netball and basketball teams have also previously played in the city, drawing capacity crowds. In a rugby league heartland, Knights games are well attended even when the team is struggling. But Magic Round is also about drawing visitors to justify government investment. Brisbane's Magic Round sold out this year, essentially attracting 150,000 fans across three days. McDonald Jones Stadium holds close to 30,000, which would likely mean more expensive tickets if it was to move to Newcastle, to draw similar revenue. One concern with drawing 30,000 people each day would be accommodation. But Will Creedon, a long-time Hunter accommodation provider and former local tourism chief, said the city had grown its short-term stay capacity and it wouldn't be an issue. "Why not?" Creedon said of hosting the men's event. "There's about 16,500 bedrooms across the region. That's not considering there are opportunities to bring people in by bus, or via train, from outlying areas. "Is there enough supply for each category of accommodation? That's an interesting question, but we'd be close to it I suspect. "But if we knew it was coming, and it was here every so often - I think we could do a Magic Round every five years - it would act as a stimuli to think about how we're going to fill the four years in between to drive innovation of inventory around transport and aviation." Mr Creedon, who now lives in Brisbane, believes the men's Magic Round will ultimately move to new locations. "Brisbane were very clever in what they've done, and the NRL ... do I think it will move? Absolutely," he said. "I actually think it will go to Asia and other places. There will be a bidding war, because the economic influence it has is significant, and the Hunter needs to be thinking like that. "Not just with the NRL, but every other code as well." Part of the 'magic' of Magic Round is the proximity of hospitality businesses to the venue. Newcastle's popular Beaumont Street is a five-minute drive, or 30-minute walk, from the stadium. The city centre is less than 10 minutes drive away. A train line to both is a mere 10-minute walk. "Newcastle is a great city for this sort of event because the CBD area is compact with lots of dining and entertainment options, spectators can access the stadium easily with public transport and we have so many other amazing attractions within a short distance to fill out visitors' itineraries," Business Hunter chief Bob Hawes said. "We've also got an airport that intra-and-interstate visitors can fly right into. "The economic benefits from events of this calibre flow onto a diverse range of businesses including accommodation providers, cafes and restaurants, pubs and clubs, but also service providers like caterers, cleaners, security companies, uber and taxi drivers and merchandise sellers. "It also projects the city and region onto television screens around the country." Other stakeholders the Herald spoke to raised the idea of Newcastle hosting a 'mini' men's Magic Round or a combined men's and women's version in the short term, if the men's event gets locked into Brisbane into the 2030s. That could potentially entail a one-day NRL triple-header on a Saturday, if other clubs were willing to sacrifice home games to bring matches here. Or perhaps a two-day event combining men's and women's fixtures. Newcastle Tourism Industry Group chair Dominic May said any large-scale sporting event that attracted people to the region for the first had flow-on benefits. "We've been very supportive of the partnership between Venues NSW and City of Newcastle to increase major events in the city, because across visitor-economy businesses ... what we often find is events are a big driver of people to the city and often for the very first time," May said. "People will often extend their stay pre-or-post major events, like this, and that's where the real value lies ... and we find they spread out right across the region. "Major events are also a big drawcard for repeat visitation. If a person has a great experience ... they're surprised by how much they enjoyed themselves ... they're likely to return for leisure purposes." The women's Magic Round could yet return to Newcastle next year given the NRL struck a deal with the NSW government for it to be held in 'regional NSW' for the three years. Depending on the level of interest, it could yet shift to places like Mudgee, Tamworth or Bathurst. Wollongong would be another alternative with a bigger stadium than the country towns. Securing the men's Magic Round would likely require significant government investment, like Queensland has funded. Sydney could shape as a competitor to Newcastle in attracting the event, but it has its own drawbacks and similar events like rugby sevens tournaments and the A-League's Unite Round have flopped in the state capital. A decent turnout at the inaugural women's Magic Round this weekend would only put another feather in Newcastle's sporting cap, and further its case to try and host the men's version. "Recently with the big international [sporting] events, we've seen it and the sports are recognising it," Quayle said. "The councillors, too, recognise how good it is for the region. "We are seeing this prominently over the last five years, with the concerts [the stadium hosts] as well, it doesn't take long over a number of days to match, if you're talking Brisbane, [a crowd] of 50,000. "But the administrators won't make the decision just on people, it's how the event will be, which for me, is always a big plus for Newcastle, is the support it's going to get." Hawes added: "Landing the NRLW Magic Round is a huge coup and snaring the men's version would add further to the Hunter's growing reputation as a high-quality host destination for national and international sporting events." Sports and tourism leaders believe Newcastle should "go big" and position itself to take the NRL's Magic Round away from Brisbane, spruiking the Hunter's credentials ahead of the inaugural women's event this weekend. McDonald Jones Stadium in Broadmeadow is hosting the first NRLW Magic Round across Saturday and Sunday, where all six games will be played at the one venue. The women's round has been launched after the success of the men's event which has been held annually in Brisbane since 2019. The forecast rain might put a dampener on crowds at the women's version, but that hasn't diminished a view that Newcastle would be more than capable of hosting the men's Magic Round too. "We should strive for any event, as we have in relation to this one and as we have done with the events we've seen so successful [in the past]. You have to go big for the future," former rugby league administrator and Hunter resident, John Quayle, told the Newcastle Herald. "It doesn't happen just overnight, because cities now, in every event, are going to bid for the long term. They want it for their city. They don't want one-offs. "It's like the Grand Prix or Supercars, they are international events and with exposure sent around the world that you can't buy." As it stands, Brisbane will host the men's Magic Round until at least 2027, while a five-year extension has been mooted through to the 2032 Olympics. The Queensland government's strong financial support has kept the event in the Sunshine State since its inception. But whether its popularity ultimately wanes in Brisbane and the NRL opts to move it, remains to be seen. The NRL Nines suffered that fate after several years in Auckland before being revived and relocated to Perth in 2020. It hasn't been held since as the sport has generally moved away from the format at the elite level. Newcastle's track record in terms of hosting major sporting events speaks for itself. In the past year alone, the city has hosted the Wallabies, Wallaroos, Matildas and Women's State of Origin. The national women's netball and basketball teams have also previously played in the city, drawing capacity crowds. In a rugby league heartland, Knights games are well attended even when the team is struggling. But Magic Round is also about drawing visitors to justify government investment. Brisbane's Magic Round sold out this year, essentially attracting 150,000 fans across three days. McDonald Jones Stadium holds close to 30,000, which would likely mean more expensive tickets if it was to move to Newcastle, to draw similar revenue. One concern with drawing 30,000 people each day would be accommodation. But Will Creedon, a long-time Hunter accommodation provider and former local tourism chief, said the city had grown its short-term stay capacity and it wouldn't be an issue. "Why not?" Creedon said of hosting the men's event. "There's about 16,500 bedrooms across the region. That's not considering there are opportunities to bring people in by bus, or via train, from outlying areas. "Is there enough supply for each category of accommodation? That's an interesting question, but we'd be close to it I suspect. "But if we knew it was coming, and it was here every so often - I think we could do a Magic Round every five years - it would act as a stimuli to think about how we're going to fill the four years in between to drive innovation of inventory around transport and aviation." Mr Creedon, who now lives in Brisbane, believes the men's Magic Round will ultimately move to new locations. "Brisbane were very clever in what they've done, and the NRL ... do I think it will move? Absolutely," he said. "I actually think it will go to Asia and other places. There will be a bidding war, because the economic influence it has is significant, and the Hunter needs to be thinking like that. "Not just with the NRL, but every other code as well." Part of the 'magic' of Magic Round is the proximity of hospitality businesses to the venue. Newcastle's popular Beaumont Street is a five-minute drive, or 30-minute walk, from the stadium. The city centre is less than 10 minutes drive away. A train line to both is a mere 10-minute walk. "Newcastle is a great city for this sort of event because the CBD area is compact with lots of dining and entertainment options, spectators can access the stadium easily with public transport and we have so many other amazing attractions within a short distance to fill out visitors' itineraries," Business Hunter chief Bob Hawes said. "We've also got an airport that intra-and-interstate visitors can fly right into. "The economic benefits from events of this calibre flow onto a diverse range of businesses including accommodation providers, cafes and restaurants, pubs and clubs, but also service providers like caterers, cleaners, security companies, uber and taxi drivers and merchandise sellers. "It also projects the city and region onto television screens around the country." Other stakeholders the Herald spoke to raised the idea of Newcastle hosting a 'mini' men's Magic Round or a combined men's and women's version in the short term, if the men's event gets locked into Brisbane into the 2030s. That could potentially entail a one-day NRL triple-header on a Saturday, if other clubs were willing to sacrifice home games to bring matches here. Or perhaps a two-day event combining men's and women's fixtures. Newcastle Tourism Industry Group chair Dominic May said any large-scale sporting event that attracted people to the region for the first had flow-on benefits. "We've been very supportive of the partnership between Venues NSW and City of Newcastle to increase major events in the city, because across visitor-economy businesses ... what we often find is events are a big driver of people to the city and often for the very first time," May said. "People will often extend their stay pre-or-post major events, like this, and that's where the real value lies ... and we find they spread out right across the region. "Major events are also a big drawcard for repeat visitation. If a person has a great experience ... they're surprised by how much they enjoyed themselves ... they're likely to return for leisure purposes." The women's Magic Round could yet return to Newcastle next year given the NRL struck a deal with the NSW government for it to be held in 'regional NSW' for the three years. Depending on the level of interest, it could yet shift to places like Mudgee, Tamworth or Bathurst. Wollongong would be another alternative with a bigger stadium than the country towns. Securing the men's Magic Round would likely require significant government investment, like Queensland has funded. Sydney could shape as a competitor to Newcastle in attracting the event, but it has its own drawbacks and similar events like rugby sevens tournaments and the A-League's Unite Round have flopped in the state capital. A decent turnout at the inaugural women's Magic Round this weekend would only put another feather in Newcastle's sporting cap, and further its case to try and host the men's version. "Recently with the big international [sporting] events, we've seen it and the sports are recognising it," Quayle said. "The councillors, too, recognise how good it is for the region. "We are seeing this prominently over the last five years, with the concerts [the stadium hosts] as well, it doesn't take long over a number of days to match, if you're talking Brisbane, [a crowd] of 50,000. "But the administrators won't make the decision just on people, it's how the event will be, which for me, is always a big plus for Newcastle, is the support it's going to get." Hawes added: "Landing the NRLW Magic Round is a huge coup and snaring the men's version would add further to the Hunter's growing reputation as a high-quality host destination for national and international sporting events." Sports and tourism leaders believe Newcastle should "go big" and position itself to take the NRL's Magic Round away from Brisbane, spruiking the Hunter's credentials ahead of the inaugural women's event this weekend. McDonald Jones Stadium in Broadmeadow is hosting the first NRLW Magic Round across Saturday and Sunday, where all six games will be played at the one venue. The women's round has been launched after the success of the men's event which has been held annually in Brisbane since 2019. The forecast rain might put a dampener on crowds at the women's version, but that hasn't diminished a view that Newcastle would be more than capable of hosting the men's Magic Round too. "We should strive for any event, as we have in relation to this one and as we have done with the events we've seen so successful [in the past]. You have to go big for the future," former rugby league administrator and Hunter resident, John Quayle, told the Newcastle Herald. "It doesn't happen just overnight, because cities now, in every event, are going to bid for the long term. They want it for their city. They don't want one-offs. "It's like the Grand Prix or Supercars, they are international events and with exposure sent around the world that you can't buy." As it stands, Brisbane will host the men's Magic Round until at least 2027, while a five-year extension has been mooted through to the 2032 Olympics. The Queensland government's strong financial support has kept the event in the Sunshine State since its inception. But whether its popularity ultimately wanes in Brisbane and the NRL opts to move it, remains to be seen. The NRL Nines suffered that fate after several years in Auckland before being revived and relocated to Perth in 2020. It hasn't been held since as the sport has generally moved away from the format at the elite level. Newcastle's track record in terms of hosting major sporting events speaks for itself. In the past year alone, the city has hosted the Wallabies, Wallaroos, Matildas and Women's State of Origin. The national women's netball and basketball teams have also previously played in the city, drawing capacity crowds. In a rugby league heartland, Knights games are well attended even when the team is struggling. But Magic Round is also about drawing visitors to justify government investment. Brisbane's Magic Round sold out this year, essentially attracting 150,000 fans across three days. McDonald Jones Stadium holds close to 30,000, which would likely mean more expensive tickets if it was to move to Newcastle, to draw similar revenue. One concern with drawing 30,000 people each day would be accommodation. But Will Creedon, a long-time Hunter accommodation provider and former local tourism chief, said the city had grown its short-term stay capacity and it wouldn't be an issue. "Why not?" Creedon said of hosting the men's event. "There's about 16,500 bedrooms across the region. That's not considering there are opportunities to bring people in by bus, or via train, from outlying areas. "Is there enough supply for each category of accommodation? That's an interesting question, but we'd be close to it I suspect. "But if we knew it was coming, and it was here every so often - I think we could do a Magic Round every five years - it would act as a stimuli to think about how we're going to fill the four years in between to drive innovation of inventory around transport and aviation." Mr Creedon, who now lives in Brisbane, believes the men's Magic Round will ultimately move to new locations. "Brisbane were very clever in what they've done, and the NRL ... do I think it will move? Absolutely," he said. "I actually think it will go to Asia and other places. There will be a bidding war, because the economic influence it has is significant, and the Hunter needs to be thinking like that. "Not just with the NRL, but every other code as well." Part of the 'magic' of Magic Round is the proximity of hospitality businesses to the venue. Newcastle's popular Beaumont Street is a five-minute drive, or 30-minute walk, from the stadium. The city centre is less than 10 minutes drive away. A train line to both is a mere 10-minute walk. "Newcastle is a great city for this sort of event because the CBD area is compact with lots of dining and entertainment options, spectators can access the stadium easily with public transport and we have so many other amazing attractions within a short distance to fill out visitors' itineraries," Business Hunter chief Bob Hawes said. "We've also got an airport that intra-and-interstate visitors can fly right into. "The economic benefits from events of this calibre flow onto a diverse range of businesses including accommodation providers, cafes and restaurants, pubs and clubs, but also service providers like caterers, cleaners, security companies, uber and taxi drivers and merchandise sellers. "It also projects the city and region onto television screens around the country." Other stakeholders the Herald spoke to raised the idea of Newcastle hosting a 'mini' men's Magic Round or a combined men's and women's version in the short term, if the men's event gets locked into Brisbane into the 2030s. That could potentially entail a one-day NRL triple-header on a Saturday, if other clubs were willing to sacrifice home games to bring matches here. Or perhaps a two-day event combining men's and women's fixtures. Newcastle Tourism Industry Group chair Dominic May said any large-scale sporting event that attracted people to the region for the first had flow-on benefits. "We've been very supportive of the partnership between Venues NSW and City of Newcastle to increase major events in the city, because across visitor-economy businesses ... what we often find is events are a big driver of people to the city and often for the very first time," May said. "People will often extend their stay pre-or-post major events, like this, and that's where the real value lies ... and we find they spread out right across the region. "Major events are also a big drawcard for repeat visitation. If a person has a great experience ... they're surprised by how much they enjoyed themselves ... they're likely to return for leisure purposes." The women's Magic Round could yet return to Newcastle next year given the NRL struck a deal with the NSW government for it to be held in 'regional NSW' for the three years. Depending on the level of interest, it could yet shift to places like Mudgee, Tamworth or Bathurst. Wollongong would be another alternative with a bigger stadium than the country towns. Securing the men's Magic Round would likely require significant government investment, like Queensland has funded. Sydney could shape as a competitor to Newcastle in attracting the event, but it has its own drawbacks and similar events like rugby sevens tournaments and the A-League's Unite Round have flopped in the state capital. A decent turnout at the inaugural women's Magic Round this weekend would only put another feather in Newcastle's sporting cap, and further its case to try and host the men's version. "Recently with the big international [sporting] events, we've seen it and the sports are recognising it," Quayle said. "The councillors, too, recognise how good it is for the region. "We are seeing this prominently over the last five years, with the concerts [the stadium hosts] as well, it doesn't take long over a number of days to match, if you're talking Brisbane, [a crowd] of 50,000. "But the administrators won't make the decision just on people, it's how the event will be, which for me, is always a big plus for Newcastle, is the support it's going to get." Hawes added: "Landing the NRLW Magic Round is a huge coup and snaring the men's version would add further to the Hunter's growing reputation as a high-quality host destination for national and international sporting events." Sports and tourism leaders believe Newcastle should "go big" and position itself to take the NRL's Magic Round away from Brisbane, spruiking the Hunter's credentials ahead of the inaugural women's event this weekend. McDonald Jones Stadium in Broadmeadow is hosting the first NRLW Magic Round across Saturday and Sunday, where all six games will be played at the one venue. The women's round has been launched after the success of the men's event which has been held annually in Brisbane since 2019. The forecast rain might put a dampener on crowds at the women's version, but that hasn't diminished a view that Newcastle would be more than capable of hosting the men's Magic Round too. "We should strive for any event, as we have in relation to this one and as we have done with the events we've seen so successful [in the past]. You have to go big for the future," former rugby league administrator and Hunter resident, John Quayle, told the Newcastle Herald. "It doesn't happen just overnight, because cities now, in every event, are going to bid for the long term. They want it for their city. They don't want one-offs. "It's like the Grand Prix or Supercars, they are international events and with exposure sent around the world that you can't buy." As it stands, Brisbane will host the men's Magic Round until at least 2027, while a five-year extension has been mooted through to the 2032 Olympics. The Queensland government's strong financial support has kept the event in the Sunshine State since its inception. But whether its popularity ultimately wanes in Brisbane and the NRL opts to move it, remains to be seen. The NRL Nines suffered that fate after several years in Auckland before being revived and relocated to Perth in 2020. It hasn't been held since as the sport has generally moved away from the format at the elite level. Newcastle's track record in terms of hosting major sporting events speaks for itself. In the past year alone, the city has hosted the Wallabies, Wallaroos, Matildas and Women's State of Origin. The national women's netball and basketball teams have also previously played in the city, drawing capacity crowds. In a rugby league heartland, Knights games are well attended even when the team is struggling. But Magic Round is also about drawing visitors to justify government investment. Brisbane's Magic Round sold out this year, essentially attracting 150,000 fans across three days. McDonald Jones Stadium holds close to 30,000, which would likely mean more expensive tickets if it was to move to Newcastle, to draw similar revenue. One concern with drawing 30,000 people each day would be accommodation. But Will Creedon, a long-time Hunter accommodation provider and former local tourism chief, said the city had grown its short-term stay capacity and it wouldn't be an issue. "Why not?" Creedon said of hosting the men's event. "There's about 16,500 bedrooms across the region. That's not considering there are opportunities to bring people in by bus, or via train, from outlying areas. "Is there enough supply for each category of accommodation? That's an interesting question, but we'd be close to it I suspect. "But if we knew it was coming, and it was here every so often - I think we could do a Magic Round every five years - it would act as a stimuli to think about how we're going to fill the four years in between to drive innovation of inventory around transport and aviation." Mr Creedon, who now lives in Brisbane, believes the men's Magic Round will ultimately move to new locations. "Brisbane were very clever in what they've done, and the NRL ... do I think it will move? Absolutely," he said. "I actually think it will go to Asia and other places. There will be a bidding war, because the economic influence it has is significant, and the Hunter needs to be thinking like that. "Not just with the NRL, but every other code as well." Part of the 'magic' of Magic Round is the proximity of hospitality businesses to the venue. Newcastle's popular Beaumont Street is a five-minute drive, or 30-minute walk, from the stadium. The city centre is less than 10 minutes drive away. A train line to both is a mere 10-minute walk. "Newcastle is a great city for this sort of event because the CBD area is compact with lots of dining and entertainment options, spectators can access the stadium easily with public transport and we have so many other amazing attractions within a short distance to fill out visitors' itineraries," Business Hunter chief Bob Hawes said. "We've also got an airport that intra-and-interstate visitors can fly right into. "The economic benefits from events of this calibre flow onto a diverse range of businesses including accommodation providers, cafes and restaurants, pubs and clubs, but also service providers like caterers, cleaners, security companies, uber and taxi drivers and merchandise sellers. "It also projects the city and region onto television screens around the country." Other stakeholders the Herald spoke to raised the idea of Newcastle hosting a 'mini' men's Magic Round or a combined men's and women's version in the short term, if the men's event gets locked into Brisbane into the 2030s. That could potentially entail a one-day NRL triple-header on a Saturday, if other clubs were willing to sacrifice home games to bring matches here. Or perhaps a two-day event combining men's and women's fixtures. Newcastle Tourism Industry Group chair Dominic May said any large-scale sporting event that attracted people to the region for the first had flow-on benefits. "We've been very supportive of the partnership between Venues NSW and City of Newcastle to increase major events in the city, because across visitor-economy businesses ... what we often find is events are a big driver of people to the city and often for the very first time," May said. "People will often extend their stay pre-or-post major events, like this, and that's where the real value lies ... and we find they spread out right across the region. "Major events are also a big drawcard for repeat visitation. If a person has a great experience ... they're surprised by how much they enjoyed themselves ... they're likely to return for leisure purposes." The women's Magic Round could yet return to Newcastle next year given the NRL struck a deal with the NSW government for it to be held in 'regional NSW' for the three years. Depending on the level of interest, it could yet shift to places like Mudgee, Tamworth or Bathurst. Wollongong would be another alternative with a bigger stadium than the country towns. Securing the men's Magic Round would likely require significant government investment, like Queensland has funded. Sydney could shape as a competitor to Newcastle in attracting the event, but it has its own drawbacks and similar events like rugby sevens tournaments and the A-League's Unite Round have flopped in the state capital. A decent turnout at the inaugural women's Magic Round this weekend would only put another feather in Newcastle's sporting cap, and further its case to try and host the men's version. "Recently with the big international [sporting] events, we've seen it and the sports are recognising it," Quayle said. "The councillors, too, recognise how good it is for the region. "We are seeing this prominently over the last five years, with the concerts [the stadium hosts] as well, it doesn't take long over a number of days to match, if you're talking Brisbane, [a crowd] of 50,000. "But the administrators won't make the decision just on people, it's how the event will be, which for me, is always a big plus for Newcastle, is the support it's going to get." Hawes added: "Landing the NRLW Magic Round is a huge coup and snaring the men's version would add further to the Hunter's growing reputation as a high-quality host destination for national and international sporting events."
The Australian
3 days ago
- The Australian
Wait almost over to see Toyota's GR Supra Supercar, ahead of 2026 debut
It has been 32 years since Toyota last featured on the Australian Touring car stage, but this will change in Sydney on September 1 when the highly-anticipated GR Supra is unveiled ahead of its official Supercars debut for the 2026 season. This year's Bathurst 1000 launch in the Harbour City will double as the exciting uncovering of the GR Supra Supercar. The Supercars faithful won't have to wait long to see it in the flesh either, with the GR Supra to make its trackside debut at this year's Bathurst 1000 from October 9-12. For loyal Toyota supporters – who have ingrained memories of the Corolla winning its class at Bathurst for eight straight years from 1985-1992 – the return of the popular brand to Superstars is a special moment. Sneak peak at the Toyota GR Supra Supercar design ahead of official reveal in September. Picture: Supplied Supercars CEO James Warburton agrees, saying the unveiling of Toyota's weapon of choice marks a seismic moment for the Superstars as a sport. 'This is absolutely huge for Supercars,' Warburton said. 'Toyota joining the grid with the legendary GR Supra is a complete game-changer. This motorsport giant has incredible global pedigree and passionate Australian fans who are going to go wild seeing the Supra battle the Mustang and Camaro.' James Warburton, when Seven West Media CEO, in 2024. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Martin Ollman Brad Jones Racing (BJR) will be one of Toyota's two team partners for its entry into the 2026 Repco Supercars Championship. BJR will race four V8-powered GR Supra GEN3 Supercars from the upcoming 2026 season under a multi-year deal. The road to Supercars has been a long and calculated one for Toyota, whose factory-backed Toyota Gazoo Racing Australia (TGRA) program has built a reputation for success in grassroots motorsport, off-road rallying and circuit racing. Now, the company is ready to step onto the biggest stage in Australian racing with a car that's iconic across generations. 'The debut of the GR Supra Supercar at the upcoming Bathurst 1000 launch in Sydney marks a truly historic milestone for Toyota in Australian motorsport,' Toyota Australia Vice President of Sales, Marketing and Franchise Operations Sean Hanley said. 'GR Supra is a car synonymous with performance, passion and power, and as a race car, it makes an electrifying statement. This isn't just an arrival — it's our next bold step as we prepare to join the Supercars grid alongside the Mustang and Camaro in 2026. 'This moment is sure to ignite excitement among fans of Supercars, Toyota and Toyota Gazoo Racing across the nation. And the excitement will only build from here, with the GR Supra Supercar heading to this year's Bathurst 1000, where fans will have their first opportunity to get up close and personal with this absolute beast of a race car.' Warburton believes Toyota's unveiling at this year's Bathurst 1000 launch in Sydney couldn't be better. 'Launching in Sydney while kicking off the Bathurst 1000 countdown is absolutely perfect,' he said. 'It's going to be an incredible night — a triumphant celebration of everything that makes Supercars so spectacular.' Matt Logue Sports reporter Matt Logue is an award-winning sports journalist and author who brings more than 20 years' experience to NCA NewsWire and CODE Sports. Starting out in regional newspapers in Dubbo and Bathurst, he moved to Sydney in 2006 and spent eight years at Rugby League Week magazine. He has also worked at the Newcastle Knights as a senior reporter under seven-time premiership-winning coach Wayne Bennett, Big League magazine and the Daily and Sunday Telegraphs. Matt is passionate about all sports, but has particular loves for rugby league and basketball. @mattlogue7 Matt Logue
The Advertiser
4 days ago
- The Advertiser
Sharks good enough for NRL's top four: hopeful Hynes
Nicho Hynes believes Cronulla are good enough to make the NRL top four as the race heats up in the final weeks of the season. The depleted Warriors' loss to struggling Gold Coast last week raised alarm bells for the Kiwi side, who could drop from fourth spot with two losses across their final six games of the regular season. Four-time reigning premiers Penrith and sixth-placed Brisbane are both poised for a late charge, but the seventh-placed Sharks may be better-placed for the potential vacancy. Across the final six weeks of the campaign, Cronulla play only one team that are currently in the top eight: a Canterbury (34 points) side that may rest players in the final round before finals. The Panthers (27) are one competition point ahead of the Sharks, but need to play three of the current top four, while the Broncos, on level points with Cronulla, twice face premiership favourites Melbourne (32). Craig Fitzgibbon's men are the only side of that trio that have a bye in the final six weeks and also do not need to leave Sydney, with three of their final five games to be played at Sharks Stadium. Ahead of Sunday's clash with 11th-placed North Queensland, halfback Hynes said Cronulla were capable of snatching a top-four berth at the 11th hour. "We set out a goal at the beginning of the season about top four and I feel like we are a top-four team when we're at our best. That's always in our sights," he said. "(But) we're not looking any further than the Cowboys this weekend, they're playing for their season. "They're going to be hungry and they're going to come down here with a bit of a revenge energy after we beat them up there earlier in the year." The Sharks are on a three-game winning streak but raised eyebrows by only squeaking out a two-point victory over struggling South Sydney last week. Hynes found positives in the 14-12 grind. "Anyone can win in this competition and it's really important to win in every kind of way you can," he said. "You need to keep turning up for each other and we did that." Cronulla were joined at training on Thursday by Australian basketballer Tyrese Proctor, who was selected by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the NBA Draft last month. Raised in the Sutherland Shire, Proctor is a life-long Sharks fan and swapped stories with the players after their wet field session. "To go onto the biggest stage in his chosen area is huge," Hynes said of Proctor. "It's starting to show that Australia's here and we're serious about our sport." Nicho Hynes believes Cronulla are good enough to make the NRL top four as the race heats up in the final weeks of the season. The depleted Warriors' loss to struggling Gold Coast last week raised alarm bells for the Kiwi side, who could drop from fourth spot with two losses across their final six games of the regular season. Four-time reigning premiers Penrith and sixth-placed Brisbane are both poised for a late charge, but the seventh-placed Sharks may be better-placed for the potential vacancy. Across the final six weeks of the campaign, Cronulla play only one team that are currently in the top eight: a Canterbury (34 points) side that may rest players in the final round before finals. The Panthers (27) are one competition point ahead of the Sharks, but need to play three of the current top four, while the Broncos, on level points with Cronulla, twice face premiership favourites Melbourne (32). Craig Fitzgibbon's men are the only side of that trio that have a bye in the final six weeks and also do not need to leave Sydney, with three of their final five games to be played at Sharks Stadium. Ahead of Sunday's clash with 11th-placed North Queensland, halfback Hynes said Cronulla were capable of snatching a top-four berth at the 11th hour. "We set out a goal at the beginning of the season about top four and I feel like we are a top-four team when we're at our best. That's always in our sights," he said. "(But) we're not looking any further than the Cowboys this weekend, they're playing for their season. "They're going to be hungry and they're going to come down here with a bit of a revenge energy after we beat them up there earlier in the year." The Sharks are on a three-game winning streak but raised eyebrows by only squeaking out a two-point victory over struggling South Sydney last week. Hynes found positives in the 14-12 grind. "Anyone can win in this competition and it's really important to win in every kind of way you can," he said. "You need to keep turning up for each other and we did that." Cronulla were joined at training on Thursday by Australian basketballer Tyrese Proctor, who was selected by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the NBA Draft last month. Raised in the Sutherland Shire, Proctor is a life-long Sharks fan and swapped stories with the players after their wet field session. "To go onto the biggest stage in his chosen area is huge," Hynes said of Proctor. "It's starting to show that Australia's here and we're serious about our sport." Nicho Hynes believes Cronulla are good enough to make the NRL top four as the race heats up in the final weeks of the season. The depleted Warriors' loss to struggling Gold Coast last week raised alarm bells for the Kiwi side, who could drop from fourth spot with two losses across their final six games of the regular season. Four-time reigning premiers Penrith and sixth-placed Brisbane are both poised for a late charge, but the seventh-placed Sharks may be better-placed for the potential vacancy. Across the final six weeks of the campaign, Cronulla play only one team that are currently in the top eight: a Canterbury (34 points) side that may rest players in the final round before finals. The Panthers (27) are one competition point ahead of the Sharks, but need to play three of the current top four, while the Broncos, on level points with Cronulla, twice face premiership favourites Melbourne (32). Craig Fitzgibbon's men are the only side of that trio that have a bye in the final six weeks and also do not need to leave Sydney, with three of their final five games to be played at Sharks Stadium. Ahead of Sunday's clash with 11th-placed North Queensland, halfback Hynes said Cronulla were capable of snatching a top-four berth at the 11th hour. "We set out a goal at the beginning of the season about top four and I feel like we are a top-four team when we're at our best. That's always in our sights," he said. "(But) we're not looking any further than the Cowboys this weekend, they're playing for their season. "They're going to be hungry and they're going to come down here with a bit of a revenge energy after we beat them up there earlier in the year." The Sharks are on a three-game winning streak but raised eyebrows by only squeaking out a two-point victory over struggling South Sydney last week. Hynes found positives in the 14-12 grind. "Anyone can win in this competition and it's really important to win in every kind of way you can," he said. "You need to keep turning up for each other and we did that." Cronulla were joined at training on Thursday by Australian basketballer Tyrese Proctor, who was selected by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the NBA Draft last month. Raised in the Sutherland Shire, Proctor is a life-long Sharks fan and swapped stories with the players after their wet field session. "To go onto the biggest stage in his chosen area is huge," Hynes said of Proctor. "It's starting to show that Australia's here and we're serious about our sport."
