The Sydney Morning Herald summed up the St George Queensland Reds v NSW Waratahs pre-season trial match and associated events, held from January 22-24, perfectly: "The XXXX beer was going down a treat and there was all the brilliant buzz that comes with bush footy in the small town outside of Toowoomba." (SMH, January 24).
Dalby welcomed visitors from far and wide with welcome rain (pre-event), and the Dalby Leagues venue did not disappoint, with a lush field and 4000 strong sell-out crowd.
With the generous assistance of the major stakeholders in this unique premium rugby event in Dalby, Downs Rugby Limited would like to thank the Western Downs Regional Council, the St George Queensland Reds, Dalby & District 'Wheatmen' Rugby Union Football Club, The Dalby Leagues Club, Graincorp and all volunteers for a most professional and enjoyable event for the drought-ravaged Downs Rugby area.
On Thursday evening, January 23, several Reds and Qld Super W players ventured to the Fish Tank at Condamine for a clinic.
The Sportsman's Luncheon, on Friday January 24, was held at the Events Centre at Dalby's Showgrounds, with 320 people in attendance.
We thank MC Ben 'Dobbo' Dobbin, and guest speaker panel: Tim Horan AM, Garrick Morgan, Sam Scott Young and Stephen Moore.
Thousands of dollars have been raised from the sale of signed memorabilia, with all proceeds to be donated to Rural Aid.
Downs Rugby hosted three curtain raiser girls' and women's 7s matches including under 15 youth girls 7s development squad and a match between the Dalby Wheatchix and Downs Rugby Barbarians.
This match featured Brittany Smith from Roma Echidnas, which join the Emilee Cherry Cup in 2020.
The St George Queensland Reds broke a 10-game hoodoo against the NSW Waratahs, with a strong defensive effort to prevail 28-19 in humid conditions.
Thanks to sponsors: O'Sheas Windsor Hotel Dalby, Sun Pork and Midfield Meats, LJ Hooker Toowoomba, Comtel and Signs n Lines.
The Wagners Risdon Cup kicks off on Saturday April 18.
Teenage boys' participation numbers have increased.
Youth girls' and open women's participation numbers continue to lead the way.
Downs Rugby will again host the 2020 Queensland Rugby Teenage Boys' State Championships from July 3-5.
Full details at www.downsrugby.com.au.
Queensland Reds play in the third round of Super Rugby this Sunday morning (February 16) against the Jaguares, at 8am (Qld time).
