Brisbane’s hotels, restaurants and cafes scored big during the NRL Magic Round in May, highlighting the critical importance of the Schrinner Council’s support for major events.

New economic modelling has revealed the three-day feast of football delivered a $22.5 million dividend to the city and the state.
Deputy Mayor and Civic Cabinet Chair for Economic Development Krista Adams said the three-day NRL Magic Round was just one of a host of events backed by the Brisbane Economic Development Agency.

“Whether its top-class football or boutique festivals, bringing events to Brisbane is a great way to stimulate economic activity, Cr Adams said.
“Our tourism and hospitality sectors have done it tough throughout the COVID-19 pandemic so supporting them by bringing events like this to Brisbane is critically important.”
NRL Magic Round was established in partnership with the Brisbane City Council and the Queensland Government and saw all 16 teams compete against each other over three days from 14-16 May.
An agreement has been reached to ensure the magic returns in 2022.
The new economic analysis figures compiled by Tourism and Events Queensland reveal the Magic Round generated almost 69,500 unique visitors and more than 82,000 hotel night stays, in a major coup for Brisbane.

“Brisbane is the spiritual home of rugby league so no-one should be surprised that the Magic Round has been such a resounding success,” Cr Adams said.
“But backing this event isn’t just for the fans, it’s about ensuring local businesses and tourism operators get the benefits.”
Cr Adams said the economic results of this year’s Magic Round provided a sneak peek into the huge benefits that would come with hosting the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
“As we gear up for the world’s biggest sporting event, we will continue to promote Brisbane and its world-class facilities and venues, like the Suncorp Stadium, as a premier sporting destination to host major events,” she said.

“Our city and its businesses are already looking forward to the expected economic boost of NRL Magic Round 2022, as Brisbane comes alive with rugby fans for a festival like no other which will be even bigger and better than 2021.”
Other events supported by Brisbane Economic Development Agency have included:
• Curiocity 2021 – 48,912 attendees
• World Science Festival Brisbane 2021 – 75,539 attendees
• Torian Pro 2021 – 5,493 attendees
• ATP Cup and Brisbane International 2019 – 63,067 attendees
• TRL World Cup & State of Origin/ TRL Australia Championships 2019 – 23,854 attendees