The Hunter could soon play host to another major sporting event with the region unveiled as Australia’s pick to hold the 20121 Women’s Rugby World Cup.
Newcastle and Maitland would share hosting duties for the 12 team tournament should our bid be successful.
Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said the selection of Newcastle as Australia’s host city is the result of many months of work between Council staff with the NSW Government and Rugby Australia.
“The plan started last year when the Wallabies based their training camp at No 2 Sportsground. Both the players and officials from Rugby Australia fell in love with our city and saw its potential to play host to a major sporting event. Earlier this year we almost secured the Rugby World Sevens and today we have been confirmed as host city for Australia’s bid for the 2021 Women’s Rugby World Cup,” said the Lord Mayor.
“Newcastle was proud to host the Matildas for a friendly against Brazil last year and our community responded with an Australian crowd record for an international women’s football match.
“I’m confident that Newcastle would smash attendance records as the host of the 2021 Women’s Rugby World Cup too.”
Australia is competing against New Zealand, England, France, Portugal and Wales to secure the tournament, which will attract tens of thousands of visitors to Newcastle.
The successful host nation will be announced on 14 November 2018.