Rugby league great Brad Fittler will ride into Bairnsdale today as part of the National Rugby League (NRL) Hogs Tour, bringing a free junior clinic and community fundraising activities to the region.
Fittler — former captain of both New South Wales and Australia, and past Blues State of Origin coach — is leading the Victorian leg of the tour, which aims to promote rugby league in regional communities while supporting local causes.
Bairnsdale will be the final Victorian stop, with Fittler and the NRL Hogs team arriving on Harley-Davidson motorcycles. He will be joined by Dale Finucane, Jada Taylor, and Quincy Dodd.
The group will host a free rugby league clinic for children aged five to 18 at the World Sporting Precinct (99 Wallace Street) from 5–6 pm, with all skill levels welcome.
NRL Victoria has brought the tour to East Gippsland, providing a major opportunity to boost junior rugby league participation and showcase the shire’s premier sporting facility.
In addition to the clinic, the tour includes visits to local businesses supporting grassroots sport and community engagement. The initiative also raises funds to assist Indigenous students transitioning from school into employment.
Presented by Westpac, the event celebrates rugby league while strengthening connections within regional towns. Organisers are encouraging local families and junior players to meet one of the game’s greats and participate in the free training session.
The World Sporting Precinct was designed to attract events like this — inspiring young people, supporting local clubs, and showcasing high-quality facilities. Junior sport builds confidence, resilience, and connection, and visits from elite players encourage greater participation across East Gippsland.
Adding to the excitement, the Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter Service crew will visit the precinct during the clinic, giving families the chance to learn about beach safety and the vital emergency response services they provide to regional communities.
