THE Queensland Outback Barbarians Rugby Club has been forced to postpone it planned 2020 tour of Ireland because of COVID-19.
The Outback Barbarians, an invitation open mens team which draws its players from across rural Queensland, had planned to play seven matches in Ireland in September and October.
Outback Barbarians manager Geoff Barton OAM said the safety of the players was the overriding priority for the club.
"The club's priority is to ensure that each and everyone is safe and this may also have an advantage that when this pandemic is over," Mr Barton said.
"This is the right decision for everyone and although it is disappointing, it is for our own good and the good or rugby as a whole."
The tour is now been rescheduled for September/October 2021.
Mr Barton said after speaking with the team's touring doctor, Ian Young, the risk of contracting the virus was assessed to be too high.
Of particular concern was having 40 people confined to a bus, meaning the virus could quickly spread through our entire group, he said.
"In addition, many places in Ireland are still expected to be closed, meaning that the attractions that draw people to Ireland, apart from the rugby, will be unavailable.
Mr Barton thanked the team's sponsors for their continued support, including long-standing media partner Queensland Country Life.
The Outback Barbarians have a remarkable record on the field. The team has lost only four of more than 60 games played across North America since 2008.
The club was formed to give international representative opportunities to A grade rugby players from rural Queensland.
Ireland will be the seventh overseas tour to be undertaken by the club.
Contact Geoff Barton, 0408 084 101, Queensland Outback Barbarians.
