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In a pulsating testament to Australia’s national passion for sport, the grand finals set for this weekend in both principal football codes are expected to be not just a battlefield for the teams but also a massive win for the hotel and hospitality industry.

This sporting frenzy, while causing heartbreak for some footy aficionados in the southern states, has painted smiles across the faces of hoteliers and pub owners. Michael Johnson, the visionary CEO of Accommodation Australia, highlighted the soaring anticipation, stating that hotels in the bustling cities of Sydney and Melbourne are bracing for a rush of footy fans. He remarked, “Occupancy rates at Sydney’s premier hotels are projected to climb to 94% in the wake of Sunday’s NRL Grand Final.” Such figures present an impressive surge from 62% the preceding weekend.

What’s driving this sudden surge? A wave of Queensland enthusiasts, hungry for a win. Their unwavering spirit is not just vested in the match but also spills over, rejuvenating both cities’ culinary, beverage, and hospitality sectors. Brisbane Lions aficionados are in a similar fervour, pushing Melbourne’s hotel bookings to a substantial 80% as they await their team’s clash with Collingwood in the AFL.

For John Green, AHA NSW Director of Liquor and Policing, these numbers aren’t just statistics. They tell a story of bustling pubs, jam-packed with fans across New South Wales, eager for the extended trading hours on Sunday. As he puts it, the local pub remains an unmatched venue to relish the game. Yet, amidst the excitement, Mr. Green’s message resonates with a sense of responsibility, urging patrons to stay courteous and comply with staff directives.

Stacey McBride, the dynamic AA NSW Accommodation Manager, echoed similar sentiments. Reflecting on the past successes of events like Vivid and the FIFA Women’s World Cup, she articulated the profound impact such spectacles have on the hotel industry. Her sentiment was perfectly encapsulated in her words, “Our hotels are robustly casting away the winter blues and scoring significantly.”

Undoubtedly, this weekend’s grand finals reaffirm that these footy codes aren’t just games – they represent a harmonious blend of passion, commerce, and national unity.