NATIONS of Origin rugby league started yesterday at Caltex Park and the atmosphere was electric.
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Orange hosted the inaugural futsal competition on day one on Tuesday and day two saw short, sharp and shiny Rugby Sevens matches over three ovals.
Just under 1,000 children will compete in the event over the two sports, almost double than its inaugural event last year.
Event organisers PCYC estimates 1,500 people will attend Nations of Origin, which they estimate will bring around $396,000 into Dubbo's economy.
This year more girls than ever are involved, which Suellen Pursche coach of the Northern Rivers-based Bundjalung said gives them a brilliant and sometimes unique opportunity.
"In country areas girls don't really get the opportunity to play people and if they do it's the same people every couple of weeks; here they get to play a different standard of girls," she said.
"It's a good opportunity for girls to play because we don't usually get the opportunity to play," added Naomi Robinson Bundjalung player.
"They should hold this event more often." Karri Williams Bundjalung player added.
This is the second year Bundjalung have competed and coach Sasha Harrington said she is continually impressed with the event.
"It's really well organised, both state and locally. It's of course about competition, but there's also a strong focus on safety and getting girls involved," she said.
"It's been outstanding and gives youth the opportunity to meet youths from other areas."
Ngambri, from Queanbeyan was one of the furthest travelled teams, but Craig Williams coach of Ngambri said it's well worth the trip.
"It's great to bring the boys and girls up. Hopefully they go alright- we'll have a bit of fun and anything else is a bonus," he said.