[5] However, the game at Browne Park was suddenly and unexpectedly cancelled just hours before kick-off on 31 July 2021 after a COVID-19 outbreak in Brisbane originating from a cluster detected at Indooroopilly State High School forced a snap lockdown in South East Queensland.

[8] The Rockhampton NRL game had generated considerable hype around Central Queensland with local newspaper CQ Today even publishing a special "NRL Souvenir Edition" with an eight page wraparound featuring numerous stories relating to the historic game at Browne Park.

[9] The Rockhampton game was also promoted as a "homecoming" for both Dragons coach Anthony Griffin and captain Ben Hunt who were both born in the city.

[15] It culminated in Queensland premier Annastacia Palaszczuk and state MP Bill Byrne announcing that the Queensland Government had agreed to in-principle support for the event, allocated $250,000 for the city to host the game in August 2015, speculated to have been the Round 24 clash between the Gold Coast Titans and the Canberra Raiders.

The field was moved just on 10 metres towards the Albert Street (hill end) boundary to accommodate the redevelopment of the Rockhampton Leagues Club.

The undercover George Street Grandstand, now completed, has 614 colourful bucket seats, which are also closer to the field for an improved viewing experience.

[23][24] This announcement came after several years of lobbying from the Browne Park Trust, led by chairperson Paul Hoolihan, for funding to redevelop the ground.

[25][26] With the hope of attracting National Rugby League games to the city, the state government pledged a commitment of $150,000 in 2018 to fast track a feasibility study into transforming Browne Park into a 10,000-seat stadium.

[27][28] During this time, supporters of Browne Park's redevelopment faced a rival proposal to construct a brand new stadium alongside the Fitzroy River at the Victoria Park sports precinct, which was put forward by a consortium of community representatives led by co-president of the rival Rockhampton Sports Club, former Australian touch football captain Gavin Shuker.

[36] Member for Rockhampton Barry O'Rourke confirmed funding for the project would be included in the 2022 state budget and expected shovels in the ground following the 2022 rugby league season.