For fans of rugby, there’s no better place to be than Queensland. In a world rugby first, international rugby union teams are facing off in a series of epic double header matches. And in a 114-year first for the sport, the rugby league Grand Finals will be held in Brisbane’s own Suncorp Stadium. With a few action-packed weekends ahead, let’s look at how you can catch the matches and experience the rugby action at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane.
2021 eToro Rugby Championships
Last weekend saw the first clash between rugby greats at the Cbus Super Stadium on the Gold Coast, with the All Blacks facing off against Las Pumas, and the Wallabies versing the Springboks. The All Blacks pulled off a decisive win with a 39-0 victory against the Argentinian internationals, and the Wallabies vs Springboks game came down to the final seconds, where Quade Cooper’s kick put Australia ahead 28 – 26 to beat the world champions.
This weekend, it’s all happening again with the same line up returning to face off again at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane. The teams will be back with the desire to prove themselves and settle the score, so the resulting games will be full of fire. There are still tickets available on Ticketek for those looking to get in on the action.
The third face-off will take the teams back to the Cbus Super Stadium, with Argentina facing the Wallabies and the Springboks playing the All Blacks on October 2. It’s undoubtedly a record-breaking, memorable series of weekends for rugby fans around the world and especially those in Queensland.
The NRL Grand Final
It’s never been held outside of Sydney, but this year Brisbane has the privilege of hosting the biggest event in rugby league. Mackay will host the semi-finals on Friday, September 17 and Saturday, September 18 with the preliminary finals to be played at Suncorp Stadium on Friday, September 24 and Saturday, September 25. Then, it will all come down to the thrilling match on October 3, when the Grand Final will be played at Suncorp and the 2021 champions will be decided.
Where to watch the games
Ticketek is the best source for tickets to the games, allowing you to get involved with the action and join in on some seriously memorable matches. There are still tickets available for all matches, but they’re going quick – so get in as soon as possible.
If you can’t get to the games, Brisbane upholds their long tradition of supporting sports with many venues around the city offering atmosphere, drinks and dining, and live games on the big screen. There are plenty of places to catch the game live, but if you’d like to watch like the locals, there are some venues that can’t be beat.
The Story Bridge Hotel have an established tradition as a meeting place for sporting fans of all kinds. They show the match on a number of big screens located throughout the venue, replicating the excitement and passion of the live game.
Located within a short walk from the stadium itself, the Caxton allows you to be as close to the action as possible without needing a ticket. Come along to watch the game, and then join in on the post-game atmosphere as fans pour out of the stadium to celebrate their win or drown their sorrows.
Known as a favourite hangout for the Broncos, the Normanby Hotel is one of the oldest pubs in Brisbane and well regarded as a place to catch up and watch the match. Grab a steak and hang out in the beer garden before joining in with fellow fans to see the game unfold.
Arriving at Suncorp
With Airtrain, you will arrive quickly and comfortably from the airport to Brisbane City in 20 minutes. You can disembark at your chosen city station – Airtrain runs express from the airport, but stops at Fortitude Valley, Central, Roma Street, and South Brisbane stations.
If you’re heading straight to the stadium, you can head directly to Roma Street station on the Airtrain and take a short stroll to Suncorp. There are also plenty of buses if you don’t fancy the walk – just check out translink’s Journey Planner to work out the best way to arrive.
After your Airtrain journey, public transport to and from the game is included free with your ticket – just show your ticket when prompted by rail and bus staff. Be sure to travel within four hours of the game’s kick off, and four hours after the final whistle for this deal to apply.
While you’re in Brisbane, short term visitors should check out the go seeQ card, which allows you unlimited travel for three or five consecutive days on buses, trains, ferries, and trams. It also includes two Airtrain journeys to/from the Brisbane Airport.
For longer stays, travel like the locals with a go card – just touch on at your station of departure and touch off when you arrive at your destination.
What to Do
Brisbane is a fantastic city with plenty to see and do. If you’re in town for the footy and have some time to spare, why not check out Airtrain’s suggestions for some memorable ways to spend your time.
Airtrain can get you from the airport to the city in just 20 minutes. From there, all that’s left is to choose which of the unforgettable sights and experiences you’ll explore during your time in the city.
Rugby Action at Suncorp
With all the rugby action at Suncorp lined up, Queensland is the place to be. The state-of-the-art stadiums, excellent transport, and plenty of things to see and do mean visitors and locals alike can make the most of the excitement ahead.
At Airtrain, we’re proud to partner with you to get you where you need to go. From your arrival at Brisbane Airport until you reach your destination, we’re committed to offering safe, reliable, comfortable travel that gets you where you need to go – on time, every time.
