For the first time in history, the Dally M Awards will be held over two special events which will culminate in an awards ceremony in Brisbane on Monday 27 September.
Broadcast partner Fox Sports will host a made for television event on Monday 20 September which will crown a number of award winners before the Dally M Medal will be announced at a gala ceremony at Howard Smith Wharves in Brisbane a week later.
The first television event will provide a greater spotlight on the supporting awards that are traditionally crowned on Dally M night and build excitement towards the Dally M Medal count a week later.
NRL Chief Executive Andrew Abdo said the two events would provide the game with a unique opportunity to celebrate the best performances in 2021.
“The Dally M Awards showcase the exceptional performances of the season and this year we can celebrate the achievements of our players and officials across two events,’’ he said.
“With the entire competition relocated to Queensland in 2021, it was important to think differently for our awards this year.
“We have a new format and the first ever Dally M event in Queensland, ahead of the first ever Grand Final in Brisbane.
“The new format will allow some players and guests in Brisbane to experience the gala evening in person while Fox Sports will ensure a state-of-the art experience for players and officials who have returned home.”
The second event, on Monday, September 27, will feature the major award winners including the Dally M Medal, the Dally M Team of the Year, Coach, Captain and Rookie of the Year.
Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said hosting the Dally M Awards in Brisbane was a great coup for Queensland.
“Thousands of viewers tune in to the Dally Ms each and every year. Hosting these awards here in Brisbane will generate great exposure for Queensland,’’ she said.
“This is only possible thanks to the way Queenslanders have responded to the pandemic.
“We’ll continue to work hard to secure major events that support local jobs and help businesses to build back better.”
Fox Sports Executive Director Steve Crawley said he was looking forward to innovative format.
“We can’t wait to highlight the incredible performances of the players this season and the new format will better help us tell the stories of the game’s best,” he said.
Following the success of the concept in 2020, the NRL will once again name a full team in the Dally M Team of the Year, from one through to 13.
NRL 360 will also host special Dally M editions prior to each broadcast.
