The Queensland Maroons squad was met by thousands of cheering fans in Rockhampton today for the official Queensland Maroons Westpac Fan Day.
Fans got up close with some of rugby league's biggest names including hometown heroes Cameron Munster and Harry Grant.
It's one of the state's favourite rugby league traditions with regional fans getting autographs, photos and participating in clinics ahead of the State of Origin series decider next week.
The event was held at Rockhampton's newly upgraded Aurizon Stadium with Rockhampton's deep rugby league heritage making it a fitting host city.
It is the hometown of Maroons captain Cameron Munster, who first developed his rugby league skills with the North Knights juniors.
The wider Central Queensland region has produced numerous Maroons State of Origin stars, including Harry Grant (Yeppoon Seagulls) and Ben Hunt (Blackwater Crushers).
The event was sponsored by Rockhampton Regional Council and Westpac.
Quotes attributable to QRL Pathways and Performance Manager Glenn Ottaway:
"Central Queensland has been one of the great breeding grounds for rugby league talent over many years.
"Our players and coaches will draw a huge amount of inspiration from today's Fan Day and we send our appreciation to Westpac, Rockhampton Regional Council and the thousands of Queensland fans for making it such a memorable occasion."
Quotes attributable to Qld Maroons Captain Cameron Munster:
"As a proud Rockhampton junior, it was a privilege to return home today with my Maroons teammates, many of whom are just like me and have strong connections to regional communities all over the state.
"We will take some of that Central Queensland spirit with us into the series decider, and we hope we inspired young boys and girls to continue to chase their dreams."
Quotes attributable to Rockhampton Region Mayor Tony Williams:
"Rockhampton is true rugby league heartland and we're so excited to have the team in town. As we head into the Origin decider, the Maroons know Rocky is right behind them.
"It's also really special to welcome our own homegrown hero and captain, Cam Munster, back to Rocky and see him connecting with fans.
"Our junior players will remember this for years. Being able to run, pass and kick alongside their heroes is the kind of experience that sparks a lifelong passion for the game.
"Central Queensland has produced some of the state's greatest rugby league players, and we're incredibly proud to see our region recognised in this way."
Quotes attributable to Parks, Sport, and Public Spaces Councillor Cherie Rutherford:
"Events like this shine a spotlight on Rockhampton and Central Queensland as a sporting destination and bring real energy into our community.
"Seeing local kids out on the field, meeting their idols and building those connections is so special and shows why rugby league means so much to this region."
