The Dolphins will begin their NRL history with a match to be played in the Central Queensland town of Gladstone.
A trial match against the Central Queensland Capras has been confirmed for the evening of Saturday February 4 at Marley Brown Oval.
The Dolphins’ first ever game will be just one of the highlights of the weekend, that will also include an All Abilities Clinic and a Sports Luncheon on the Saturday as well as several curtain-raiser matches before the 7pm main match kick-off.
A clinic for local children will also be held on Sunday with the attendance of Dolphins’ players.
Gladstone Region Mayor Matt Burnett said it was an honour for Gladstone to play a significant role in Dolphins’ history as the host city for their inaugural match.
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“The Dolphins will remember this game for years to come as they begin their NRL journey,” Mayor Burnett said.
“This is not just a pre-season game; this is a crucial step towards the 2023 NRL Season as coach Wayne Bennett will want his team fully prepared to take on a competitive CQ Capras side.
“It is also important from an off-field perspective, as the Dolphins will be engaging with new fans as they look to spread their supporter base north into regional areas.
“That’s why it’s fantastic to see the Dolphins take time out of their busy schedule to host junior coaching clinics and a sports luncheon while they’re in Gladstone.
“Council worked closely with the Dolphins over many months to secure the game at Marley Brown Oval and I’m sure we will see a packed-out crowd on February 4.”
Dolphins’ chief executive Terry Reader said the match would be the start of the Dolphins showcasing their new NRL team first to Queensland, then to the rest of the rugby league world.
“The match against the Capras in Gladstone will make history as the first ever trial game for the Dolphins,” said Reader.
“The game also underlines our commitment to our catchment that extends all the way from Rockhampton through to Brisbane.
“It is no coincidence that our first ever game is taking place in Central Queensland – the NRL has given us a mandate to support the game in our wide catchment and that is what we will do.”
