Far North Queensland has once again proven itself as one of the most passionate rugby league regions in Australia, with the NRL trial match in Cairns next month already almost a sell-out.

Local footy fans have been snapping up tickets at a rapid rate for the North Queensland Cowboys blockbuster against St. George Illawarra Dragons at Barlow Park in Cairns on 16 February.

And Cairns District Rugby League Operations Manager Pat Bailey urged anyone interested in going to the game to get their tickets quickly, with less than 40 grandstand seats now remaining and general admission expected to be at capacity.

“As expected, there’s been an overwhelming response from the FNQ footy public to this mouth-watering game,” Ms Bailey said.

“Tickets have been much sought-after for this massive occasion, and it should be an incredible atmosphere on the night.

“We’re expecting Origin stars such as Johnathan Thurston, Matthew Bowen, Matt Scott, James Tamou and Brent Tate to be gracing Barlow Park, so it will be the place to be.

“The message is ‘get in quick’ and don’t leave it until the day of the game to buy your ticket, or you might miss out,” she said.

For the first time, footy fans have been able to secure their tickets online through Tickets Cairns (www.ticketscairns.com.au), as well as in person through Brothers Leagues Club and over the telephone.

Ms Bailey said there was also limited corporate hospitality space left.

In an extra treat for fans, Skill360 Northern Pride will take on the Cowboys Under 20s Toyota Cup side in a curtain raiser.

It will provide Pride fans with a first look at the Intrust Super Cup side since new head coach Jason Demetriou took over last October, including several new players to the squad.