Less Than One Week Until Kick-Off!
Published on 09 March 2026
Bathurst is counting down to this Saturday when the Penrith Panthers will go head-to-head with the Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks at Carrington Park in their Round 2 match for 2026.
Mayor Cr Robert Taylor said ticket sales are on track for a sell-out crowd.
“The Panthers’ annual game at Carrington Park, their home away from home, is a hugely anticipated event on the Bathurst calendar. If you haven’t already, make sure to secure your seat; with 9000 tickets already sold it’s looking like this will be our third year in a row with a sold-out match! Plus, with the game held earlier in the year than usual, it’s shaping up to be a fantastic, warm weekend not to be missed.
In the lead up to Saturday’s match, popular community activities are scheduled once again throughout the week. This includes the Sportsman’s Lunch, Panthers Community Clinics sponsored by Westfund, and the Squad Meet & Greet.
Mayor Taylor said these pre-game activities are a terrific way to build excitement and connection amongst fans in the lead up to the big day.
"On Tuesday and Thursday this week, the Panthers will be hosting their well-loved free community clinics, sponsored by Westfund, down at the Hereford St fields. This year, an all-new girls only clinic will feature on Tuesday with Panthers Harvey Norman Women’s players taking girls aged 5-15 through rugby league skills, activities and game play. Plus, Thursday’s Family Fun Day will provide participants a chance to snap a selfie or get autographs from their favourite Panthers players ahead of their official Squad Meet & Greet at Panthers Bathurst later that night.
“Additionally, if you’re looking to attend the Sportsman’s Lunch on Friday, I’d book in today to not miss out! The Sportsman’s Lunch gives you the chance to get up close to the NRL’s latest and greatest before the big clash. Enjoy great food, special guests and an afternoon of entertainment in the lead up to game day,” said Mayor Taylor.
Game Day Schedule, Saturday 14 March:
5:00pm Curtain Raiser Kick-Off - Western Rams v Central Coast Roosters
7:30pm Kick-Off - NRL Telstra Premiership Rd 2: Penrith Panthers v Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks
Media is invited to attend the following:
What: Westfund Panthers Community Clinic ‘Girls Only Fun Day’
Where: Hereford Street sporting fields
When: Tuesday 10 March, 4:30pm – 6pm. NRL players will be available for interview.
What: Westfund Panthers Community Clinic ‘Family Fun Day’
Where: Hereford Street sporting fields
When: Thursday 12 March, 4:30pm – 6pm. NRL players will be available for interview.
What: Panthers Coach Ivan Cleary Press Conference
Where: Rydges Mount Panorama
When: Friday 13 March, 9:00am (TBC)
When: Friday 13 March, 12:30pm - 3:30pm. Vision opportunity, no players or coach to be interviewed.
Media contact: Genevieve Green Media and Communications Officer