The Hull FC Super League team will use Kiama as a training base during its visit to Australia next year, when they take on reigning champions Wigan Warriors in the first ever Super League game to be held outside of Europe.
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Wollongong’s WIN Stadium will host the game on Saturday, February 10, 2018.
Kiama Mayor Mark Honey made the announcement Hull players, coaches and staff would stay and train in Kiama on Tuesday.
“This is a major coup for our municipality with close to 50 players and staff staying at the Sebel Harbourside from February 4 next year,” Cr Honey said.
“I would like to congratulate Craig Hardy and his team at Sebel Harbourside for providing the winning bid to host Hull FC.
“The team will be conducting their training here, visiting our local attractions and taking part in community events.”
Cr Honey said as well as the players and staff, Hull FC would also bring a significant touring party, including thousands of fans.
“While the players and staff will be at the Sebel Harbourside, the size of the touring party means there will be plenty of opportunities for local businesses throughout the area to benefit,” he said.
By getting behind this major event, we are not only showing what a great place this is and the friendliness of our people, but sending a giant postcard to the people of Hull and Wigan watching back in the UK.
- Cr Mark Honey
“This is a chance to provide a warm welcome and make a long-term impression on the players, fans and English media that will cover the tour.
“I know we will provide the players, coaches, families and fans with a memorable experience with our beautiful beaches, towns and villages, great food and wine and renowned hospitality.
“By getting behind this major event, we are not only showing what a great place this is and the friendliness of our people, but sending a giant postcard to the people of Hull and Wigan watching back in the UK.”
Wigan Warriors’ executive director Kris Radlinski said he was looking forward to bringing the spectacle to the region.
“I came out here about a month ago and spent some time in Wollongong, I had only been here five minutes and realised I really loved the place,” he said.
“Wollongong is going to be Wigan Rugby League territory and Kiama is going to be Hulls.”
Mr Radlinski said a lot of people describe Hull as a sleeping giant.
“Let me tell you that giant has woken up,” he said.
“Just two Saturdays ago Hull beat Wigan in the cup final and they went back to their home town and 35,000 people turned up.
“It’s an absolutely incredible club with tremendous support, and I’m sure a lot of them are going to come on this trip.
“You are in for a crazy time in February and I know you mentioned the Barmy Army, but you haven’t seen anything like a crazy bunch of Wiganers.”
Hayley Warden
Hayley Warden is a digital journalist with ACM Agri based on the NSW South Coast.
Hayley Warden is a digital journalist with ACM Agri based on the NSW South Coast.
