Up, up, Coffs Harbour, the Sharkies are back in town
Published on 02 July 2024
The Cronulla Sharks are flying high in the 2024 National Rugby League (NRL) competition but it’s what the club does off the field as much as on it that is winning them a tide of admirers in Coffs Harbour.
The Sharks return to Coffs today for a string of community events leading to their NRL match against Gold Coast Titans at the C.ex Coffs Harbour International Stadium on Friday night.
“It will be great to have Nicho Hynes and all the other stars back here,” City of Coffs Harbour Mayor Paul Amos said.
“They have been tremendously popular and very generous with their time ahead of a competition game.”
Ticket sales have been strong with fewer than 200 left as the event heads for a sellout.
“As with their previous visits, the Sharks are here for much more than trying to secure two competition points,” City of Coffs Harbour Acting Director City Planning and Communities Ian Fitzgibbon said.
“The players and club staff will be out and about in the community at a string of events which gives locals a chance to interact with some of the biggest names in the sport.”
The Sharks will pop into the Animal Management Centre near the Airport on Wednesday, while the City will also host a business brunch during the Captain’s Run open training session, at the stadium from 10am to noon on Friday, 5 July.
The third-placed Sharks have scheduled school visits to Toormina Public, William Bayldon and Sawtell Public on Wednesday.
“Fins Up - we’ll be painting Coffs blue to welcome them back, with Sharks signage on the Hogbin Dr roundabout and in the city centre along Harbour Dr. Plus the shade sail lights in the CBD will glow blue,” Mr Fitzgibbon said.
“This is the fourth year of the City’s successful partnership with the Sharks and they are terrific ambassadors thanks to the many synergies between the regions.
“Along with the Big Bash cricket Sydney Sixers and the Sydney Swans AFL, the Sharks love to play at their home away from home, C.ex Coffs International Stadium which is arguably the best sporting venue in regional Australia.”
The itinery for the boys from The Shire also includes a footy skills clinic tonight, and a visit to the Telstra Store, Park Beach Plaza, from 3 to 5pm on Thursday.
The NRL match against Des Hasler’s Titans will kick off at 6pm on Friday and be preceded by local junior teams playing on field and again at halftime at the stadium.
Coffs Harbour rugby league legend Maisie Miller will be Mayor Paul Amos’ representative at the coin toss.
City of Coffs Harbour will be showcased nationally with the game being broadcast by Foxtel, Kayo and on ABC Radio.
Photo: The Cronulla Sharks are set to light up City of Coffs Harbour’s C.ex Coffs Harbour International Stadium on Friday night.