Cowboys could leave without stadium funds

A Queensland government minister has urged the Commonwealth to help fund a new stadium for Townsville, fearing the North Queensland Cowboys will relocate otherwise.

North Queensland Minister Coralee O'Rourke told parliament on Thursday the federal government needed to match the state's $100 million to build the new stadium and entertainment precinct.

"Our beloved Cowboys may have to pack up and leave if they don't get a new stadium," Ms O'Rourke said, referencing a report in the Townsville Bulletin.