A sell-out crowd of 16,764 packed into Belmore Sports Ground last night to witness the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs defeat the Melbourne Storm 20-4, marking the return of first-grade rugby league to the iconic facility for the first time since 1998.

In a fitting twist of fate, the Bulldogs' last premiership match at Belmore - also against the Storm - ended in a win seventeen years ago. Last night's victory was more than just a scoreline; it was the realisation of a long-held dream driven by the Canterbury-Bankstown community.

Back to Belmore President Luke Cevolani said the night was a proud milestone.

"What we saw last night was more than a footy game - it was a celebration of community spirit," Mr Cevolani said.

"To hear that roar, to see the grandstand and the hill full again, it's something I'll never forget. This was a night for everyone who ever believed that Belmore still had something to give."

Vice President Steven Cataldi said local businesses reaped the benefits of the occasion, with restaurants, retailers and eateries reporting one of their busiest nights in recent memory.

"The economic impact was immediate. There wasn't a quiet shopfront on Burwood Road last night. The whole area came alive - and that's what happens when you bring big events back to the heart of the Canterbury-Bankstown district," Mr Cataldi said.

"The atmosphere was electric from start to finish, with supporters of all ages creating a carnival-like feel that many described as a throwback to the golden days of rugby league. None of it would have been possible without a bold idea born a decade ago. This all started with seven locals around a table in 2005 who simply refused to let Belmore fade away. Back to Belmore was founded on belief, and last night was living proof of what belief and persistence can achieve."

The next NRL fixture at Belmore Sports Ground will see the Bulldogs host the Cronulla Sharks on Sunday, 26 July, with fans already expressing excitement for another unforgettable event at the venue.