Newcastle's unwavering support for women's rugby league has been rewarded with the city securing the opening match of the 2026 Women's State of Origin series, continuing its impressive run as a premier host venue for the competition.
Third Consecutive Year for Newcastle
The Hunter region will welcome back the elite women's competition on April 30, 2026, when McDonald Jones Stadium hosts what promises to be another thrilling encounter between NSW and Queensland. This marks the third straight year that Newcastle has been chosen to host a Women's State of Origin fixture, demonstrating the city's growing reputation as a heartland for women's rugby league.
Newcastle will be the only NSW venue to host a match in the three-game series, with the subsequent fixtures moving to Brisbane on May 14 and the Gold Coast on May 28. The allocation reinforces the significance of the Hunter region in the women's rugby league landscape.
Record Crowds Expected
With a stadium capacity of 30,000, organisers are anticipating what could be the largest Women's State of Origin crowd ever seen at the Newcastle venue. The city has consistently demonstrated its passion for the women's game, with last year's Origin II selling out completely, though wet weather saw the final attendance reach 27,782.
This year's dead rubber Origin III in May still attracted an impressive 21,912 spectators, showcasing the strong local support regardless of the series outcome. The consistent turnout has not gone unnoticed by players and officials alike.
Local Stars Shine on Home Turf
Newcastle will have strong local representation in the 2026 opener, with several Hunter products expected to feature prominently. Knights captain and NSW second-rower Yasmin Clydsdale has been a vocal advocate for continuing to bring major women's matches to Newcastle, citing the region's passionate supporters.
Fellow Novocastrian Olivia Higgins has maintained her position as hooker in the Blues squad, while prodigious halfback Jesse Southwell returns to her home ground following her standout performance in this year's series. The 20-year-old Kotara Bears junior, who recently turned down a seven-year offer from the Knights to join the Broncos next season, earned a recall to the Blues side after her surprise omission in 2024.
The upcoming match will mark Southwell's first appearance in Newcastle since her high-profile club decision, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the occasion.
Proven Venue with Competitive History
Despite Newcastle's enthusiastic support, the Blues are yet to secure a victory at McDonald Jones Stadium. Queensland half Lauren Brown delivered a stunning last-gasp field goal to secure an 11-10 victory in 2024, while the Maroons came from behind to triumph 18-14 in this year's encounter.
The venue has nonetheless earned strong endorsements from players, with many stars publicly backing Newcastle as a permanent host for Women's State of Origin matches. The city's ability to draw strong crowds and create an electric atmosphere has made it a favourite among competitors.
The 2026 Origin opener could cap off a massive week of sport in Newcastle, coming just five days after the Jets host arch rivals Central Coast Mariners in an Anzac Day F3 Derby. While the Knights had initially hoped to secure an Anzac Day fixture, they may still land a home game that round when the NRL draw is released on Friday.
Newcastle's future as a major rugby league destination appears secure, with the city likely to be in contention to host matches during the men's and women's Rugby League World Cups in October and November 2026. The success of Women's State of Origin in the Hunter region continues to build the case for Newcastle as a permanent fixture on the rugby league calendar.
