NSW launches Inaugural Sydney Roosters Emergency Services Event

The Minns Labor Government and the Sydney Roosters have today announced an inaugural Emergency Services NRL Event to be held each year beginning this year at Allianz Stadium on Sunday, September 1 2024.

This new marquee fixture will highlight the commitment and selflessness of emergency service personnel, first responders, medical professionals, and volunteers from NSW’s emergency services.

The Emergency Services Event will bring together the NSW Police Force, NSW Ambulance, Fire and Rescue NSW, NSW Rural Fire Service, Surf Life Saving NSW, NSW State Emergency Service, Marine Rescue NSW and VRA Rescue NSW.

Initiated by the Sydney Roosters, the September 1 event will showcase a triple-header at Allianz Stadium, with NSW Police and the Australian Firefighters going head-to-head in the opening match, followed by the Roosters’ NRL and NRLW teams playing the Canberra Raiders.

Each year, the event will spotlight one agency, and for the inaugural year, that honour goes to the NSW Police.

The NSW Police will lead a pre-game show, showcasing their breadth of excellence and experience. Highlights will include a police helicopter display, abseiling from the stadium roof, involvement from the riot and dog squads, a marching band, and much more.

The precinct outside the stadium will be a hive of activity. All participating emergency services agencies will have activations, equipment and representatives ready to welcome attendees.

Emergency services staff, first responders and medical professionals have also been invited to attend the event as the Roosters and NRL community unite to say a heartfelt thank you to our emergency service heroes.

Premier of NSW Chris Minns said:

"This is a great opportunity to honour the heroes who protect and serve our communities every day. Their dedication and bravery are unparalleled, and this event is a fantastic way to show our appreciation."

"Every single day these workers put their own lives on the line to keep us safe and this is a great way for us to show them the appreciation they deserve.”

Minister for Sport Steve Kamper said:

"This event is a testament to what we can achieve when we come together. The support from all the emergency services agencies has been incredible, and we are excited to see this become an annual tradition.

“We believe the public will get behind the inaugural event and turn it into the NRL’s next major marquee match, alongside the Anzac Day Cup.”

Minister for Police Yasmin Catley said:

“The NSW Police are the unsung heroes of our community; they go above and beyond, often risking their own personal safety in the line of duty.

“This is a chance to celebrate and show our support for these brave officers. It’ll also be a wonderful opportunity to showcase the capability of the NSW Police Force.”

Sydney Roosters CEO Joe Kelly said:

“Community is at the core of everything we do at the Sydney Roosters, and we are excited to host our inaugural Emergency Services Event. This special occasion is dedicated to acknowledging and celebrating the incredible work of our frontline emergency services.

“We have been inspired by the support and collaboration of all eight emergency service organisations and Venues NSW, making this celebration truly exceptional. Held on Father’s Day, this event promises to become a marquee fixture on the Sydney sporting calendar.”