Sunshine Coast pubs and clubs will be among those in the state to open their doors between 3am and 7am for a crunch Socceroos match.
Operators at some local venues have spread the word that they will trade during Australia’s FIFA World Cup clash with Egypt in Texas on Saturday morning.
Their announcements came after the state government gave the green light for the ‘trial’.
Licensed venues must open for the primary purpose of broadcasting the game and be approved in advance by the Office of Liquor and Gaming Regulation.
The trial could mean some venues will essentially be open all night, extending beyond the usual 3am restriction.
Duporth Tavern hotelier Clayton Williams looked forward to the occasion.
“What proud Australian wouldn’t want to watch the Socceroos chase World Cup glory at a great sports pub?” he said.
“We’ll be trading continuously from 10am Friday through until 7am Saturday, so everyone can enjoy the build-up and stay for the match.”
Kick-off is at 4am.
“The last pool game was standing room only, so get in early. Let’s go, Socceroos,” Mr Williams said.
Some of the local venues set to trade in the early hours include Sands Tavern, Kawana Waters Hotel, Surfair Beach Hotel and Coolum Beach Hotel. There are likely to be several more.
Attorney-General and Minister for Justice and Minister for Integrity Deb Frecklington said the match would be a shared celebration.
“There’s nothing like coming together with a crowd to cheer on the Socceroos, and we want Queenslanders to be part of that atmosphere,” she said.
“We’ve found a way through and taken a practical approach so our pubs and community clubs can open and create a great game-day experience for fans right across the state.
“This is about making it easier for people to get together, support our national team and enjoy the excitement, while still ensuring the safety for Queenslanders and the responsible service of alcohol.
“It’s a targeted measure that keeps the focus exactly where it should be – on the game, the fans and a great community atmosphere.”
Minister for Housing and Public Works and Minister for Youth Sam O’Connor backed the initiative.
“Big moments like this are what our night-time economy is all about, bringing people together to share an experience and celebrate,” he said.
“We want fans to enjoy the buzz, the energy and the sense of community that comes with backing the Socceroos.
“At the same time, safety remains front and centre. These arrangements ensure venues can deliver a fantastic atmosphere while maintaining strong standards for patrons and staff. This is the kind of balanced, exciting approach that helps our night-time economy thrive while keeping Queenslanders safe.”
The Socceroos will collide with Egypt in the Round of 32, with the winner advancing to the Round of 16 and the loser eliminated.
The Australian team earned their place in the knockout stages after victory over Turkiye, a loss to the United States and a draw against Paraguay to be second in their group.
The Socceroos have never advanced beyond the Round of 16 at a FIFA World Cup.
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