newy.com.au – McDonald Jones Stadium will open as a free grand final live site on Sunday 4 October, giving Hunter supporters a place to watch the Knights take on the Roosters as Newcastle chases its third NRL premiership.
The NSW Government announced the event for fans unable to get to Sydney. Free tickets will be available through Ticketmaster from 10am on Thursday 1 October, and registration is required.
Gates will open at 3.30pm, with entry through gates 2 and 3. The big screens will show the NRLW grand final between the Roosters and Broncos before the Knights face the Roosters in the men’s decider.
Supporters can bring a picnic rug and watch from the field or take a seat in the grandstands. Food and beverage outlets will be open throughout the event.
Hunter Minister Yasmin Catley said:
“I am hearing that tickets for Sunday’s Grand Final are now nearly impossible to get. For all those who can’t get there, where better to gather to watch the Knights do battle than our spiritual home – MacDonald Jones Stadium.
“Venues NSW have worked with the Knights and all concerned to make this the place to be if you can’t get to Sydney. They’ll be firing up the big screens and making it as close as it can be to being there in person.
Newcastle MP Tim Crakanthorp said:
“Newcastle is ready to defend the kingdom. This is our team, our town, and our time. Up the Knights!”
Wallsend MP Sonia Hornery said: “This is a great announcement from the NSW Government. I’m so pleased to see that our local fans will be able to cheer on the Knights in our home ground of McDonald Jones Stadium”
Port Stephens MP Kate Washington said: “Fans and families will be able to create memories for a lifetime, cheering together at a great, free local live site. Go the Knights!”
Knights group chief commercial officer Jodie Cross said:
“We would love to see as many members and fans as possible at Accor Stadium on Sunday, if they can’t get tickets to the game the next best option is to watch it live at our home, the kingdom, McDonald Jones Stadium.
“Everyone at the Knights appreciates the phenomenal support we continue to receive, it’s truly amazing and overwhelming, there is no doubt we have the best supporters in the game.”
Cessnock MP Clayton Barr said:
“This is a massive moment for Newcastle and the Hunter, and a fantastic opportunity for Knights fans to come together and get behind the boys as they take on the Roosters in their first Grand Final in 25 years.
“With so many locals in the team, there’s a special feeling for families, friends and the whole community. Let’s get the red and blue out, make some noise and get behind the Knights – let’s bring it home!”
Charlestown MP Jodie Harrison said: “We love our Knights, and this is a great way for everyone to get involved, turn our town red and blue, and show our support for the team.”
Maitland MP Jenny Aitchison said:
“The Knights have done the Hunter proud, and opening McDonald Jones Stadium means more local fans can come together and cheer them on in the Grand Final.
“We know that not everyone can make the trip to Sydney on Sunday, so this is a great opportunity for Knights fans to gather at home and get behind our team on the biggest stage!”
Duty MLC for the Upper Hunter Emily Suvaal said: “Knights supporters are thrilled we are in the grand final! We’re so excited I think the team will hear us from McDonald Jones”
