Later this week, the State of Origin decider will take place in Sydney and a huge crowd is expected for what promises to be a blockbuster night.
Such is the draw of rugby league’s biggest event, that people from all over will descend on the Harbour City, some for the first time.
With that in mind, we have put together this handy guide for the tourists heading to the game on Wednesday night at Accor Stadium.
Traffic
Want to get out to the venue in a calm, orderly fashion?
Nope!
If you’re coming from the CBD, leave around lunchtime for the 8:12pm kickoff, anywhere further east prepare for a full day excursion.
A Delayed Kickoff Because of the Traffic
Not that Origin ever kicks off at the listed time but that’s the excuse we’re going to hear anyway.
Jessica Mauboy Singing the National Anthem
An Origin regular, just like the Maroons, Blues, referees and spectacors, Mauboy is going to be a part of the festivities one way or another.
Now she’s got more Origin appearances than a dozen of the players and sounds a hell of a lot better than the players attempted rendition.
3 Syllable Chants to Remind You What State You Are In
Actually this is a common occurrence in Queensland too, it’s just a different phrase they repeat over and over.
Origin crowds may not have the creativity of European Football audiences with the common refrain of “New South Wales” in Sydney and “Queenslandah” at Suncorp.
Plenty of Throwback Blues Jerseys
Actually, we don’t even have a problem with them, some of those retro jerseys from the 90’s are as good as it gets.
Bring them back permanently!
Political Cameos
Will our Prime Minister make an appearance to remind everyone he’s a Souths fan?
Perhaps the former PM might also make an appearance in a Sharks cap.
While Queensland is locked in to send its best representative down, we’ll let you work out who that is going to be.
Dead Silence if Queensland Wins
One of the best parts of State of Origin is the parochial nature of the fans, but that doesn’t mean things always go to plan for the home team.
While the State of Origin markets are favouring a Blues victory, there are more than a few instances of the “underdog” Queenslanders pulling off an upset.