Footy fever enveloped Roma on 10 and 11 February as it hosted its biggest event of the year.
The Santos Festival of Rugby doubled the town’s population and excited both footy fans and local business owners who received a major economic boost.
Santos executive vice president Brett Darley said Santos, in partnership with Queensland Rugby Union and NSW Rugby Union was proud to return the Festival of Rugby to Roma.
“Footy fans aren’t the only winners when the elite Queensland Reds and New South Wales Waratahs come to Roma and vie for the Santos Cup,” Mr Darley said.
“More than 6000 people (were) expected to visit Roma for the … event and we know these visitors (were) staying, eating and drinking locally.
“In 2022, Santos funded more than $200,000 of permanent infrastructure upgrades to the local footy club, including installing flood lights that benefit teams and the community year-round.
“Corporate sponsorship and events such as these are so important for regional towns and Santos is committed to giving back and supporting the towns in which we operate.
“Last year within Maranoa Regional Council, Santos spent almost $100 million partnering with local businesses, buying local products and using local services.”
Mayor of Maranoa, Cr Golder said the Santos-funded upgrade to the local playing fields as part of the festival was an extra benefit.
“Beyond the playing fields, the festival extends its offerings to encompass family entertainment, live performances, junior coaching clinics, school visits and a celebration of the region.
“Whether one is a rugby enthusiast or not, this event promises enjoyment for the entire community.
“Beyond expenditures related to rugby activities, significant contributions from spectators and visitors to the local economy, spanning areas such as food, beverage, accommodation, and fuel, were observed.
“With … crowd numbers exceeding 6000 for the 2024 Roma event, the cumulative return to the community is estimated to be approximately $1.9 million-plus on a bi-annual basis, underscoring the enduring positive impact of the festival.”
