Queensland Government claims $20 million economic boost from NRL Magic Round

The Queensland Government has claimed that, in an 'economic model' released today, the inaugural NRL Magic Round contributed $20 million into Queensland’s economy over its four days.

Queensland Tourism Industry Development Minister Kate Jones advised that more than 116,000 fans attended Brisbane’s NRL Magic Round in May, with more than 48,000 of those fans travelling to Brisbane specifically for the event.

Minister Jones explained “we worked closely with the NRL to develop this totally new product (and) this data shows that local businesses were the ones to really benefit."

Minister Jones said the data released today proved fans were keen to travel to Queensland to watch quality rugby league, adding "more than 24,000 fans came from outside of Queensland which proves footy fans want to come to the Sunshine State.

“Magic Round had never before been held in Australia and these results shows that Brisbane is the true home of the event well into the future.

“The four days of football action generated 105,000 room nights for Queensland which means those who came for the footy also had the chance to stay in Brisbane and enjoy some of our world-class tourism experiences.”

The NRL Magic Round was secured for Brisbane by the Queensland Government, through Tourism and Events Queensland and Brisbane City Council through Brisbane Marketing.

Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said securing the NRL Magic Round was part of the city’s plan to grow the local economy and attract more visitors.

He went on to say "the NRL Magic Round was an Australian first and5 one that we were thrilled to add to our rich calendar of major events offering more to see and do in Brisbane."

NRL Chief Executive Todd Greenberg advised planning was well underway for a return to Brisbane in 2020.

Greenberg concluded "we couldn’t have hoped for a better outcome for our first Magic Round, with south-east Queensland fans and travelling visitors giving it a huge tick of approval.

“I have no doubt that next year will be bigger and better and I congratulate everyone involved in helping bring this event to life.”

NRL Magic Round image courtesy of Brisbane Marketing/NRL.