The Queensland Reds are set to host the NSW Waratahs at Ballymore Stadium in a pre-season trial for the first time in over 20 years this Saturday, January 31.
It will be the Reds’ final tune-up before the 2026 Swyftx Super Rugby Pacific Season and fans’ last chance to see the team in action on home soil until the first home game of the season on February 27 at Suncorp Stadium.
The most traditional of rugby rivals last met in a pre-season trial at Ballymore in 2005. Reds vs Waratahs trials in the intervening years have been hosted in Roma, Narrabri, Dalby, Lismore, Toowoomba and Sydney.
Early arrivers on Saturday will be treated to an intra-club game between the Reds NextGen 7s squad at 12:45pm.
Flanker Fraser McReight will lead the Reds in his new role as Captain for the first time in a strong forward pack also featuring Wallabies Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, Josh Canham and Aidan Ross.
Off the field, legendary Brisbane musical act Tuffy will serenade the crowd from 1:00pm with fans set to take the field shortly following full time.
Here’s all of the key information you need ahead of Saturday’s game.
- 12:15pm: Ticket Box Office opens
- 12:30pm: Gates Open
- 12:45pm: QAS Sevens Intra Squad Match
- 2:00pm: Kick Off
- 3:35pm: Full Time
- 3:45pm: Fans on field / player signings
- Legendary Brisbane musician Tuffy will be performing from 1:00-2:00pm
- Team poster giveaways and player signing session
- Fans on the field after the game
- Kit yourself out for 2026 at the Reds Merchandise Tent
- Book your ticket to Suncorp stadium at the Reds Membership Tent
- Check out the QRU’s fleet of new Ford F150s
- Win some freebies thanks to Bank of Queensland
Onsite parking is not permitted at Ballymore Stadium on either the Saturday and Sunday without a designated parking permit meaning patrons should plan their trip ahead of time.
All seating at Ballymore Stadium is general admission for the game, including the McLean Stand and iconic XXXX Hill.
The eastern stand will not be operational during the game.
North Plaza: Food & Bar
XXXX Beer Tent near XXXX Hill
Goosey's café – open until 4pm
