Mudgee shines hosting seventh Charity Shield

Published on 24 February 2025

Glen Willow has once again proven its reputation as the best stadium in the Central West with 8417 footy fans filling the venue on Saturday to watch the St George Illawarra Dragons take down the South Sydney Rabbitohs for the seventh NRL Charity Shield trial match in Mudgee.

The shield was returned to the Dragons following an electric game of rugby league in very warm conditions 46-26.

Mayor of the Mid-Western Region, Des Kennedy said the event was a major success, injecting $1.67 million into the local economy.

“We’re proud to have hosted the Charity Shield at Glen Willow for seven years,” Cr Kennedy said.

“Council secured the first game in 2018 through a partnership with the St George Illawarra Dragons and South Sydney Rabbitohs.

“Since the first game this partnership has gone from strength to strength and is testament to the exceptional quality of the venue along with Council’s execution of major events.

“The total cumulative impact of the seven Charity Shield games hosted in Mudgee is more than $10 million.

“That’s visitors staying locally, eating out, shopping and enjoying all that our region has to offer.

“This is a fantastic outcome for the region and a major reason why Council works so hard to attract and retain major events.

“Visitors got even more bang for their buck with the Rylstone Show and Charity Shield Race Day hosted over the weekend.

“Our venue is really like no other and fans can get up close and personal with the players and by all accounts the majority had a fantastic day out. As with all major events there are always learnings and we take that on board to improve the next event we host.”

The Charity Shield will return in 2026 and Council will next host the NRL on 22 August for the NRL Telstra Premiership Round 25 - Penrith Panthers v Canberra Raiders.