The HOGS National Tour, presented by Westpac and led by Brad Fittler, has commenced, travelling to regional New South Wales, Queensland and Victoria to champion rugby league in heartland towns. In a historic move, this 13-year tradition will break boundaries, venturing into Queensland and Victoria for the first time.
Alongside Fittler, the likes of Ian Schubert, Paul Gallen, Cameron Smith, Petero Civoniceva, Luke Lewis, Preston Campbell and Jesse Southwell will aim to foster connections between local kids and communities, offering them a chance to play and engage with Rugby League.
Covering an impressive 6000 kilometres, HOGS will stretch its reach from Gympie in Queensland to Cooloman in Western NSW, and southward to Melbourne in Victoria.
"We're very proud that Brad has recently joined the team at the NRL and it's fitting that this year's HOGS tour will visit cities and towns throughout multiple states including New South Wales, Queensland and Victoria," NRL CEO Andrew Abdo said.
"Having made his NRL debut while still at high school, Brad Fittler knows and loves rugby league, but more than that, he knows and loves community.
"Brad inspires thousands of kids and fans across the country and I thank Westpac for generously supporting this initiative."
Fittler added: "HOGS has always been a highlight of my year. For the first time NRL Hogs will be venturing into Queensland and Victoria which is very exciting.
"The tour has always allowed me to see the health of rugby league in the bush and provides us with a great opportunity to give back to those that support our great game."
The HOGS National Tour, presented by Westpac is set to roll through more than 15 heartland towns, engage with over 20 Junior Rugby League Clubs, connect with 10 PCYC clubs, and make pit stops in local businesses that embody the true spirit and passion of rugby league.
Westpac Chief Brand & Marketing Officer Annabel Fribence said: "One of the things we love most about our partnership with the NRL and NRLW is the power that the sport has in bringing communities together. We recognise that Rugby League is at the heart of communities across Australia, and that's why we're excited to support Brad and the team as they drop in to towns across NSW, Victoria and Queensland. All of us at Westpac wish the team an enjoyable and safe ride!"
On the playing field, HOGS will create an opportunity for young aspiring talents to test their skills in a fun, safe, and inclusive environment. With the support of the NRL game development team, HOGS will deliver various skills, drills, and non-contact games, whilst emphasising the importance of confidence and connection.
Off the field, the HOGS National Tour is designed to captivate, motivate, and celebrate the profound connection between Rugby League and the community. Partnering with organisations like PCYC and Street Side Medics, HOGS aims to create a safe and inviting space for discussions on mental health, physical fitness, nutrition, and social engagement and help alleviate the medical burdens faced by homeless communities.
HOGS National Tour Schedule
Route One: February 2nd - February 10th
Day 1 | Sydney - Tamworth
Day 2 | Tamworth - Inverell
Day 3 | Inverell - Goondiwindi
Day 4 | Goondiwindi - Toowoomba (via Warwick)
Day 5 | Toowoomba - Gympie
Day 6 | Gympie - Kingscliff (via Caboolture)
Day 7 | Kingscliff - Casino (via Beaudesert)
Day 8 | Casino - Muswellbrook
Day 9 | Muswellbrook - Sydney
Route Two: February 12th - February 17th
Day 1 | Daceyville - Orange
Day 2 | Orange - Dubbo (via Narromine)
Day 3 | Dubbo - Wagga Wagga (via Orana and Coolamon)
Day 4 | Wagga Wagga - Cooma (via Tumut)
Day 5 | Cooma - Nowra
Day 6 | Nowra - Sydney
Route Three: March 8th
Day 1 | Melbourne
