It seems more likely than ever before that Dubbo will host an NRL game in 2021 after an announcement by Member for Dubbo Dugald Saunders.

And even better, it may not end up costing ratepayers anything.

For those who may not have heard the news, Dugald said on Tuesday "Dubbo will host a game next year. That's a guarantee."

What a great outcome.

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When I started the campaign to bring a game to Dubbo with my mayoral minute in May, I was really hoping we could lure a game here next year.

I was even willing to consider paying to get a game here.

With the difficult economic circumstances at the moment, hosting an NRL game ticks several boxes.

It generates economic benefit by bringing people from all around the region to or city for the game, and it promotes us on a wide stage through the media and the live television broadcast.

Perhaps most importantly of all, after what has been a very tough 2020, it would give us something to look forward to next year.

There is no doubt the NRL is extremely popular and people all around the region would be able to get excited about a match at Apex Oval.

In my mind, it was critical that we attract a game in 2021.

If we can get follow-up games in 2022 and beyond that will be even better but the most benefit will come from having a game next year, while the regional and national economy are still coming to grips with COVID-19 and our recovery.

My biggest hesitation in all of this was using ratepayer funds to secure the game. While the financial benefit would be clear for the region, it still wouldn't have been the best. However the work done by Dugald, as chair of the NSW Government's NRL Regional Taskforce has ensured the match will happen and without that money needing to be used.

At Monday night's council committee meetings we were going to vote on the recommendations from a report into an NRL match but that was deferred until we find out more information from the deal between the State Government and NRL.

Council had made contact with teams and found there was interest so we knew it was doable. Now we just wait to hear from Dugald and find out when the match will be and importantly, who the teams will be.

While I don't claim to know a lot about the NRL, I know our region is a fantastic heartland for the sport and Group 11 have a proud history of preparing talent to go on and play at the highest level. I think it would be a fitting reward for our region if we are given a big games for fans to enjoy.

There is no doubt that 2020 has been a tough year for everyone, but 2021 is looking brighter and our region will get through.

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