The idea of a day full of pre-season trials from under-6s all the way through to first grade had been planned between the two sides but hit a hurdle when it was announced Apex Oval would be closed during most of the March to ensure the field was in perfect condition before the 2015 season kicked off.

But after discussions between the club and council they came to an agreement on Barden Park and Walkom said he was impressed by the negotiations and pleased they could come to a decision.

"It was a bit disappointing (to miss out on Apex Oval) but we negotiated and were offered the touch football fields or Jubilee Oval but the facilities there didn't really suit the day we had planned so there was a bit more discussion and we tried to reach a compromise and then this week they said we could play at Barden Park and that's a great result because inside the running track there is turf which is suitable," Walkom said.

"The councillors were very co-operative because they realise there's maybe 500 people coming to town and they understand the benefits of that.

"It would be disappointing to miss out on that so it's come to a great compromise."

The Kurri Kurri Bulldogs play in the Newcastle Rugby League competition and have been boosted in recent weeks by the signings of former NRL players Terence Seu Seu and Daniel Abraham.

Walkom said playing against a side of the calibre will be the perfect way for his side to prepare for their Group 11 title defence in 2015 and added playing all matches at Barden Park for the first time will add an extra point of interest for all involved.

"It will be a great social event and it's good to trial against clubs outside the Group because you already play those sides at least twice a season and it will also be a benchmark of how we're shaping up because it's a high standard in Newcastle," he said.

"There's a level of excitement already because it's a new facility and there's a 500 to 600-seat grandstand, a canteen and change rooms and it will also give council and idea about the flexibility of the complex, obviously there's some concerns about the running track and you don't want footy players with sprigs running on it but that will all be addressed between now and then."

Walkom said his club's off-season was running smoothly with 2014 coaches already in place while earlier this week the Fishies signed former Wellington Cowboys forward ken Everson.

The chairman said his side expected to announce more signings before Christmas after a number of players from other clubs approached the Fishies.

"When players come to your club you can't turn them away," he said.

"I think it reflects on the success of CYMS and the club involvement, the standard of coaching and players identify that and want to be part of it."