The HOGS National Tour, presented by Westpac and led by Brad Fittler, has kicked off today in Penrith. The tour will travel through regional New South Wales, Queensland, and Victoria to celebrate rugby league in local communities, and promote junior participation.
Joining Fittler on the opening leg are Greg Inglis, Yasmin Meakes and Olivia Higgins, with Dale Finucane and Jada Taylor set to join the second leg of the tour. Together, they aim to strengthen connections with local kids and families, giving young people the chance to play, learn and engage with the greatest game for all.
“The NRL HOGS National Tour has grown into something really special over the years, and every time we hit the road we’re reminded of how much these regional communities mean to Rugby League,” Fittler said.
“Kids turn up in huge numbers, families get involved, and whole towns rally around the game. That’s why we couldn’t wait to get back out there again this year and connect with the people who keep our game strong.
“We’ll also be visiting local businesses, PCYC Clubs and Westpac branches along the way to connect with the broader community. Westpac has backed this tour year after year, and we’re extremely grateful for their support in helping us bring it to life again in 2026.”
Covering an impressive 7500 kilometres, HOGS will stretch its reach from Bundaberg in Queensland to Cooma in New South Wales, and southward to Warrnambool in Victoria.
Across the journey, the HOGS National Tour presented by Westpac will visit more than 20 heartland towns, deliver over 15 community clinics, connect with PCYC clubs, Westpac branches and stop in at local businesses that represent the true spirit of rugby league.
Westpac General Manager of Retail Banking, Damian MacRae, said, “What excites us is the chance to give young people in regional towns a close-up experience with Rugby League, sharing the passion and excitement of the game beyond the big cities.
“Sport brings people together, and the HOGS Tour is about celebrating our regions and inspiring participation in the game at all levels with access to role models like Brad.
“Westpac has been backing regional businesses, families, and communities for more than 200 years, and initiatives like this are another way for us to celebrate our regional towns and contribute to their growth and wellbeing.”
With Club Rugby League registrations open, HOGS will create an opportunity for young kids to test their skills, build confidence and make connections with local clubs, whilst promoting the importance of winter sport to stay active and build friendships.
Off the field, the HOGS National Tour is designed to captivate, motivate, and celebrate the profound connection between Rugby League and the community. Collaborating with PCYC New South Wales, HOGS is set to provide a safe space to engage and empower young people.
HOGS National Tour Schedule
Route One: February 8th - February 17th
Day 1 | Penrith to Gunnedah
Day 2 | Gunnedah to Moree
Day 3 | Moree to Goondiwindi
Day 4 | Goondiwindi to Toowoomba
Day 5 | Toowoomba to Bundaberg
Day 6 | Bundaberg to Sunshine Coast
Day 7 | Sunshine Coast to Ipswich
Day 8 | Ipswich to Tweed Heads
Day 9 | Tweed Heads to Tamworth
Day 10 | Tamworth to Sydney
Route Two: February 20th - March 1
Day 1 | Sydney to Dubbo
Day 2 | Dubbo to Wagga Wagga
Day 3 | Wagga Wagga to Ballart
Day 4 | Ballart to Warrnambool
Day 5 | Warrnambool to Leongatha
Day 6 | Leongatha to Bairnsdale
Day 7 | Bairnsdale to Cooma
Day 8 | Cooma to Batemans Bay
Day 9 | Batemans Bay to Goulburn
Day 10 | Goulburn to Sydney
For more information head to www.playrugbyleague.com/hogs
