The NSWRL announced on Tuesday an extension of the VB Blues’ successful partnership with the Coffs Harbour region, with the side set to prepare for the Origin Series at the Novotel Pacific Bay Resort in the lead-up to the 2015 and 2016 campaigns.
The two-year extension, backed by the State Government and Coffs Harbour Council, forms a vital piece of the VB Blues’ Origin puzzle for the years ahead.
NSWRL Chairman Dr George Peponis said the partnership extension was a significant move for the organisation.
“I’m so excited to announce that thanks to the support of the State Government and local member Andrew Fraser together with Councillor Denise Knight and Coffs Harbour Council and Novotel Pacific Bay Coffs Harbour we have reached agreement to prepare here for the next two years,” Dr Peponis said.
“Whether you are from Junee like Laurie Daley or a city slicker like Paul Gallen, to our team Coffs Harbour and the Novotel Pacific Bay Resort is their home away from home.
“The NSW VB Blues are proud to represent every person in this State and were overwhelmed by the support shown as we won back the State of Origin shield last year.
“The people of Coffs Harbour – like everyone in the State – embraced the NSW VB Blues. We saw that in the way they were greeted on arrival at the airport, then swamped by youngsters at the skills clinics or Wongala Mission and later given the keys to the city.”
NSW VB Blues coach Laurie Daley echoed Peponis’ sentiments.
“The NSW VB Blues love preparing for Origin up here in Coffs Harbour,” Daley said.
“The base at the Novotel Pacific Bay Resort is five-star and the people of Coffs Harbour are brilliant supporters of the VB Blues.
“We’re really looking forward to preparing here for the next two years.”
