They’re set for a warm Sunshine Coast welcome but NSW Country aren’t heading north for the hospitality.
October’s Australian Rugby Shield tournament in Caloundra is the pinnacle for NSW Country’s Cockatoos (men) and Corellas (women) - and neither side are shying away from their 2024 title ambitions.
On the women’s front, Corellas are reigning Shield holders after a dramatic 18-11 win over bitter rivals QLD Country at Ballymore last year and must now defend their title in the Orchids’ backyard.
Meanwhile the Cockatoos are still smarting from a 2023 campaign that saw them finish fourth following a shock pool loss and defeat in their bronze final clash with the Heelers.
“It certainly comes with a lot of pride and culture when they put that jumper on. Both sides will be going out there to give it their all and walk away with the goods,” NSW Country squad manager Gary Head told rugby.com.au.
“Everyone was really excited for the Corellas last year and they’ll do well again but the Cockatoos were quite disappointed with themselves and they want to turn it around.
“There’s been a fair bit of turnover from both sides but we’re all excited to see them play that next level up and have a crack when they get out there.”
Both NSW Country squads were named back in July and with regional grand finals almost finished, all eyes are turning towards Caloundra.
“By September most of our grand finals are wrapped up and a few zones like Hunter and Central Coast have already finished,” Head said.
“Team members will be doing individual sessions to keep on top of their conditioning in the lead up so once we’re up there they’ll be keen to get into it.”
The Australian Rugby Shield is supported by Sunshine Coast Council and will be streamed live and exclusive via rugby.com.au and Rugby Xplorer.
