Elite women's rugby league returns to Hervey Bay
Published on 22 June 2026
- Elite women’s rugby league returns to Hervey Bay on Saturday 4 July
- BMD Premiership match showcases a key pathway to NRLW and representative rugby league
- Sporting event to attract visitors and boost the local economy during the winter tourism season
The Fraser Coast will further stamp its growing reputation as a major sport events destination with the region hosting an elite women’s rugby league game in Hervey Bay next month.
Fraser Coast Mayor George Seymour said the Premiership game between the Wynnum Manly Seagulls and the Western Clydesdales will be played at Ralph Stafford Park on Saturday 4 July, giving local rugby league fans the opportunity to watch one of the state's premier women's competitions in action.
"This is the second year we've hosted an elite women’s rugby league fixture in Hervey Bay, and it's exciting to see women's rugby league continuing to grow in popularity and participation across Queensland,” he said.
"The BMD Premiership is an important pathway to the NRLW and representative football, so this is a great chance for local players and fans to see some of the state's best emerging talent competing right here on the Fraser Coast.
“Women’s rugby league is one of the fastest-growing sports in Australia, with participation and interest continuing to rise at both grassroots and elite levels.”
Cr Seymour said the Fraser Coast has been part of that momentum, with the Queensland Maroons Women's team visiting Hervey Bay last month and generating significant excitement among local players and fans.
“Hosting a BMD Premiership match builds on that enthusiasm and gives our community another opportunity to see some of Queensland’s best female rugby league talent in action,” he said.
“This match will also attract visitors to the region, supporting local businesses during the busy winter tourism season.
“Sporting events bring visitors who stay in local accommodation, dine in our cafes and restaurants and explore the Fraser Coast, creating benefits that flow throughout our community.
“This match is one of 18 major events Council is supporting over winter, which are expected to attract more than 30,000 attendees and generate more than $7 million in economic benefits for the region.
"By attracting events like this, we're strengthening our reputation as a destination capable of hosting major sporting and community events while creating memorable experiences for residents and visitors alike.”
Seagulls Rugby League Club President Sam Schooth said the club was proud to bring some of Queensland’s best emerging female rugby league talent to the Fraser Coast and help inspire the next generation of players.
“This match is a fantastic opportunity to meet the players, support the future of women’s sport and showcase the strong player pathways available through the Seagulls program," he said.
"We're looking forward to bringing an exciting game of rugby league to Hervey Bay and being part of a great sporting atmosphere."
The match will be played at Ralph Stafford Park, Hervey Bay, on Saturday 4 July, with gates opening at 1pm ahead of the 3pm kick-off.
Adult tickets are $10, while children can attend free.
Tickets are available at: https://www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au/BMD-Premiership