Almost 50,000 spectators descended on Adelaide Oval last night for the return of the NRL Ampol State of Origin and its first time in front of an unrestricted crowd.
The Wednesday night showcase of Australia's greatest sporting rivalry entertained a blockbuster crowd of 48,613 people - well surpassing the covid-restricted crowd of 25,000 in 2020 when the first State of Origin match was played in Adelaide.
The more than 13,000 out-of-state visitors heading into the state for the first match in the 2023 Origin series have boosted hotel occupancy rates, with new data indicating Wednesday night is shaping up to be the third best night of all time.
Forward booking data released on Monday from STR - which takes data directly from hotel reservation systems - showed Adelaide accommodation occupancy on Wednesday of 92 per cent, which equates to 9,681 rooms sold. It makes it the best Wednesday on record and potentially, the third best night of all-time - when compared to bookings actuals.
At 9,681 rooms sold, it sits behind the Saturday of WOMADelaide 2023 at 9,757 rooms sold and the Tuesday of the Ed Sheeran concert at 9,938 rooms sold.
Pubs, bars and restaurants across the CBD turned Maroon and Blue with rugby fans, before the tens of thousands 'rocked on' to Adelaide Oval to watch The Living End perform ahead of kick off.
The Queensland Maroons took home the glory, beating the NSW Blues in Game One of the 2023 Series by 8 points.
Minister for Tourism, Zoe Bettison said last night the city was buzzing and the atmosphere was electrifying.
"South Australia and the Adelaide Oval once again put on a great show for the return of the NRL Ampol State of Origin which showcased Australia's greatest sporting rivalry," Minister Bettison said.
"Many interstate visitors who travelled to South Australia for the game had the opportunity to explore and experience everything that makes our State so special; from unique accommodation and experiences to our hotels, bars and restaurants, wineries, renowned food and beverages.
"Major events are vital for the state, attracting visitors to South Australia who will fill hotel rooms, restaurants, pubs and clubs and create and sustain jobs in our tourism, arts and events industries post-covid.
"The key reason we fight so hard to secure events is to showcase our state to the rest of the country.
"Beyond this, major events do a fantastic job of telling South Australia's story through media and broadcast coverage, bringing communities together creating a wonderful sense of pride and contributing strongly to the South Australian brand.
"There really is so much to see and do in South Australia!"
