If you think the QLD-NSW rivalry runs deep, just wait until you've seen the Country unions go toe-to-toe.
Whether it's the men's (Queensland Country Heelers and NSW Country Cockatoos) or women's (Queensland Country Orchids and NSW Country Corellas) going at it, the sight of blue and yellow jerseys colliding is one of the greatest shows on turf.
The 2024 Australian Rugby Shield will be livestreamed via Rugby Xplorer and rugby.com.au/videos.
The two unions have been at each others throats since 1964 with men's representative matches dating back to a brutal 14-all draw in Warwick and this year's Australian Rugby Shield hosts - Queensland Country - are already laying down the challenge.
"That was the only place we could get them to come in 1964, just across the border, and that's where the rivalry was born," Queensland Country Rugby president Rod Hohn told rugby.com.au.
"Two of our life members still around played in that game - one was president and the other was captain. They're both in their eighties and both will prick up and lose years when you mention that game, there's so much passion for the rivalry.
"There's a real desire this year to take on NSW Country in both finals. We've had plenty of tight games against them over the years - we won the men's and lost the women's last year - but this year is our chance to show that we want this more than anyone."
Queensland Country board member Rick Lingard has high hopes for the Orchids after last year's 11-18 loss to the Corellas saw their rivals take home the ARS title and the coveted Presidents Cup.
"I think it's definitely within reach this year," Lingard said.
"The strength of our women's game has increased markedly with a pre-season tour to Perth to play the Force and that showed us where we need to be.
"Finishing second last year was tough but the Orchids are going from strength to strength and everyone's in good spirits. There's been lots of pre-tournament chat and correspondence and we're looking forward to less travel this time around."
With next month's tournament held at Caloundra Rugby Club in partnership with Sunshine Coast Council, Queensland Country are eyeing a rare chance for Shield glory on home soil.
"We're picking authentic country players and we're proud to have the ARS in our backyard this year," Hohn said.
"We've had games in Charters Towers and Townsville in the past but hosting a full tournament is big for us. We'll get people travelling hundreds or even thousands of kilometres to support us.
"There's so much passion playing for that jersey and we're putting lots of time into our junior programs because we want boys and girls growing up with the goal of becoming a Heeler or an Orchid.
"Caloundra Rugby Club's been very supportive - it's a great facility and they've hosted us for City v Country - and we just can't wait."
