Country Week Delivers Memorable Weekend At Bendigo Bank Park

Players and fans had the unique opportunity to watch professionals prepare before meeting them afterwards for photos, autographs and a chat. Photo supplied.

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The Burdekin Junior Roosters' final home game of the 2026 season was made even more special thanks to the Hostplus Cup's Country Week initiative, with the Townsville Blackhawks and Burleigh Bears creating unforgettable experiences for the club's junior players.

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Friday night saw Townsville Blackhawks Captain's Run on the main field while Play NRL conduct a junior participation session down at Bendigo Bank Park, with Junior Roosters taking part in a range of fun activities. This gave local players and fans the unique opportunity to watch the professionals prepare before meeting them afterwards for photos, autographs and a chat.

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The Burleigh Bears also embraced the Country Week spirit, spending Saturday morning around the grounds talking with Roosters players, coaches and volunteers. Their willingness to engage with the local rugby league community showcased the true purpose of Country Week and the strong connection between Hostplus Cup clubs and regional rugby league.

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Junior President Jarrod Smith said the club was incredibly grateful to Hostplus Cup for continuing to invest in regional rugby league through Country Week.

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"On behalf of everyone at Burdekin Junior Rugby League, I'd like to sincerely thank the Hostplus Cup, Play NRL, Townsville Blackhawks and the Burleigh Bears for making the trip to Ayr. Experiences like this inspire our young players, bring excitement to our community and remind us just how important regional rugby league is to the game across Queensland,” he said.

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Supplied by Burdekin Junior Rugby League

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