Footy fever will take over the Cairns Esplanade this Wednesday when State of Origin Game 1 will be screened live there on a giant screen for the first time.

The family-friendly Origin On The Esplanade event, jointly organised by Northern Pride and Cairns Regional Council, will be a celebration of the magic of State of Origin.

The festivities start at 6pm with a host of exciting fun and games for all the family to enjoy and get into the spirit of Origin. This includes:

• Meet-and-greet autograph session with former Queensland State of Origin and NQ Cowboys star Ty Williams, and other rugby league identities
• Coaching session and autograph signing by Northern Pride players
• Games and activities for the kids
• Face-painting, balloons, temporary tattoos, and other free give-aways
• Jumping castle
• Sausage sizzle
• Competitions
• Guest MC
• And much more.

The fun will continue into the night when the Queensland Maroons take on the NSW Blues in Game 1 from Melbourne’s Etihad Stadium – kick-off 8pm.

Williams, who played three Origin matches and scored one try for Queensland in the 2005 series, said it will be a spectacular location to watch the greatest sporting event of the year.

“I can’t think of a better place to watch the mighty Maroons take on the Blues, than on a big screen under the stars on the beautiful Esplanade, surrounded by a sea of other passionate
Queenslanders,” the Northern Pride captain said.

“It’s going to be a massive occasion. I’d encourage parents and kids to get there early to enjoy the fun and games we’ve got planned before the big game starts.

“Playing for Queensland was one of the highlights of my career, and I can’t wait to join other proud Queenslanders and support the boys as we go for our seventh straight series win."

Mayor Bob Manning, an avid league fan, said the evening would highlight the proud sporting culture that existed in Cairns.

“State of Origin brings out the passion in sports fans and while most of us are looking forward to another Maroon win, we do hope that Blues fans, particularly visitors to our wonderful city, will also feel welcome to join in the action, as I am sure they will,” Cr Manning said.

Cairns residents are urged to check the Northern Pride and Cairns Regional Council Facebook pages for up to date information on the event.

Origin On The Esplanade, which will take place on the grass area just to the north of the lagoon, will also be run for the remaining two 2012 State of Origin games on Wednesday 13 June and Wednesday 4 July.

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