EXCITEMENT is brewing ahead of the 2021 Junior State Cup touch carnival in Hervey Bay.
Dozens of teams had their final training session at Seafront Oval this evening.
The three-day carnival kicks off at the Tavistock Street sports fields tomorrow morning.
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President of the Hervey Bay Touch Association President Jodie Houliston said it was all systems go, despite the COVID-19 scare in South East Queensland last week.
This year is the 25th installment of the event and the 10th staged in Hervey Bay.
“It’s actually so great to have it back here. Last year was obviously cancelled due to the pandemic,” Jodie said.
“Having it back again has made it so much more exciting and we get to play touch footy and that is what we love to do.”
Jodie said all plans are in place to ensure a COVID safe event.
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She urged people to social distance, where their masks when and if they are expected to do so and check in when arriving at the venue.
Four Hervey Bay teams will fly the flag high at the carnival – including Under 12 boys and girls, Under 14 girls and Under 16 girls.
Jodie is urging local residents to come out and watch the action.
“Even if you want to come out and have a great feed, the food is always good at this event,” she said.
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Meanwhile, Hervey Bay sisters Chloe and Milli Paxton said they were looking forward to being back on the pitch.
“It was really disappointing not being able to play last year,” said Chloe.
She said the carnival was always enjoyable because of the competition and the fact that so many people were attracted to area.
PHOTO: Shaun Ryan.
Milli said the camaraderie among teammates was one of the elements she was the most excited about.
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Both sisters said it was sad not having the Junior State Cup played last year.
“It has been so good getting back into the sport,” said Milli.
