Footy fans in southern states may not be happy to see a Queensland team in the grand final of both major codes this weekend, but pubs and accommodation hotels are already cheering.
Accommodation Australia CEO Michael Johnson said hotels in both Sydney and Melbourne were expecting a bumper weekend with sky-rocketing occupancy boosted by interstate travellers.
“Sydney Hotel occupancies are expected to exceed 94% ahead of Sunday’s NRL Grand Final – a huge spike compared to 62% the previous weekend and a predicted 76% the weekend after,” said Mr Johnson.
“We have seen a rush of last-minute bookings from Queenslanders keen to see the Broncos defeat Penrith, and win or lose, the influx of people will flow through to food, beverage and other parts of the visitor economy.
“Northerners keen to see the Brisbane Lions take on Collingwood in the AFL on Saturday have also boosted Melbourne hotels with around 80% occupancy for both Friday and Saturday nights.”
AHA NSW Director of Liquor and Policing John Green said pubs in Sydney – and right across NSW – are also gearing up for big crowds this long weekend.
“With extended trading in NSW Sunday night, pubs are expecting large numbers of patrons across the state to get down to their local with mates to watch what should be a great long weekend of sport,” Mr Green said.
“There’s no better place to watch the game than down at your local – but we encourage patrons to br respectful, to look after their mates and obey instructions from staff and security.
“The finalists in both Grand Finals really have shown both footy codes are truly national competitions nowadays – with the best teams going head to head in Melbourne and Sydney this weekend.”
AA NSW Accommodation Manager Stacey McBride said it was great to see the positive impact sports and major events are continuing to have on the sector.
“We saw it with Vivid and the FIFA Women’s World Cup and now the footy finals,” said Ms McBride.
“Our hotels are truly shaking off the winter shackles and kicking some real goals.”
Media Contact: Nikki Taylor 0447 956 170
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