McDonald Jones Stadium to host 120,000 fans for major events

McDonald Jones Stadium in Newcastle is expected to host more than 120,000 fans over a five-week period starting November 7. The event lineup includes a Rugby League World Cup semi-final double-header featuring New Zealand, Samoa, and Tonga, as well as performances by Foo Fighters, Robbie Williams, and Guns N’ Roses. The AUSX Supercross Championship grand final is also scheduled for late November.

Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley stated that these events are expected to provide a boost to local businesses, pubs, and hotels. The stadium has recently completed remediation work on its roof, allowing the reopening of the upper tier of the Andrew Johns Stand, which restores 3,714 seats to the venue's capacity.

For the Robbie Williams concert on November 17, officials have advised fans to use public transport. While additional trains will run, trackwork on the Hunter Line may require replacement buses between Scone and Maitland. Free shuttle buses will operate from various locations including the Newcastle CBD, Charlestown, and Broadmeadow.