The people of Dubbo have the opportunity to ensure matches like Country v City continue to come to regional areas, according to Country Rugby League chief executive Terry Quinn.
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Quinn said ticket sales were looking positive for the May 4 match at Apex Oval but he was hoping to see the ground bursting at the seam with spectators.
A lot of effort has gone into ensuring this year's Country v City game will be a success.
After Mudgee drew praise for their hosting ability in 2012, last year's game at Coffs Harbour was considered to be a disaster, with a small crowd and high ticket prices.
The NRL has committed to Country v City until 2017 but its future beyond that date is looking far less certain and Quinn said one way to ensure it remains a fixture is to get through the gates.
"It's getting very close, very exciting. The interest is really picking up now. Everyone is keen to get out here and get the game under way," Quinn said.
"Ticket sales have been good. It would have been nice to see them sell out by now but we hope they will sell out in the final week before the game.
"[Getting good crowds] brings big-time games to the bush and that's where they should be played. It gives players an opportunity to come back and show off their wares and they can thank people for supporting them."
Like Mudgee two years ago, one of the keys to a successful hosting for Dubbo is the combination of good facilities and the support of local residents and businesses.
"The facilities are fantastic. Caltex [Apex] Oval is a great ground and one of the showcase fields in the region. It's good to have a game the calibre of Country v City to show it off.
"The build up has been good. The council has been right behind it, the Group 11 boys have supported it and the Dubbo RSL has done a lot of work as well and that is appreciated."
Quinn is expecting a close, competitive game and said Dubbo fans will have the opportunity to see some of the best young talent on the field, including players who will potentially be representing for the first time.
"I think there's going to be a lot of younger blokes on the field. Blokes that Laurie [Daley, NSW coach] wants to look at for the future. I expect a few old heads as well but I think Country will have a lot of debutants and City is looking the same way so it should be interesting," he said.
