Far North Queensland rugby league fans will be delighted to hear that Cairns is to host a NRL Premiership match in June.
 
State Minister for Tourism, Major Events, Small Business and the Commonwealth Games, Jann Stuckey today welcomed the announcement that will see the South Sydney Rabbitohs and Gold Coast Titans go head to head.
 
"We know Queenslander's love rugby league and they'll love this announcement," Ms Stuckey said.
 
"I am pleased to say with the support of Events Queensland, the South Sydney Rabbitohs and Gold Coast Titans clash will be held in Cairns as part of a three-year agreement, with the first match taking place on 16June 2013.
 
"The Newman Government is committed to supporting tourism in Cairns and the addition of the Regional Cairns Fixture to the city's major event calendar is set to deliver significant economic returns for the region.
 
"Tourism and events are intrinsically linked and with Queensland's major event calendar growing to feature 45 major events in 2013, up from 30 this year, we will be able to maximise our share of the domestic and international visitor markets."
 
Member for Cairns and Assistant Minister for Tourism Gavin King, said local league fans will be thrilled to host this event in the region.
 
"To have secured another major event in Cairns is a fantastic coup. It demonstrates our ability to host high quality events, while showcasing the great experiences on offer to a national audience," Mr King said.
 
"This event joins a growing calendar of major events for the region including the Cairns Airport Adventure Festival featuring Ironman Cairns, the Cairns Indigenous Art Fair and the AFL Fixture between the Gold Coast Suns and Richmond Tigers."
 
Cairns Regional Council Mayor Bob Manning said the fixture would further enhance Cairns' position as a sporting event hub.
 
"This is great news for the people of Cairns, who can look forward to seeing home-grown hero Nate Myles play on his home turf," Cr Manning said.
 
"Cairns and Far North Queensland have long been among the NRL's great 'nurseries', having produced many Australian and State of Origin players.
 
"I have no doubt that we will pack the house out for the fixture."
 
The match venue will be confirmed in the coming weeks.