I agree with Super Steve that this World Cup will really put International RL on the map. Don't forget from next year the BBC (the main terrestrial tv broadcaster in UK) will be showing at least one England international a year-which will help create awareness of the England Rugby League brand.
Also the emergence of France (thanks to the Catalan Dragons) and in a few years of Wales (thanks to the Celtic Crusaders) means that a meaningful international competition will be able to be developed in Europe which will attract even more attention. The problem we have had over the last few years is that no-one in Europe is good enough to come close to England, whereas England haven't been good enough to come close to Aus or NZ-therefore this has meant a very mundane international scene, however this will change I feel, and I honestly believe England can (injuries permitting) give the Aussies and Kiwis a real run for their money at this years World Cup.
I live in London and I can tell you from a first hand perspective League is really growing down here, and media wise only 2 weeks ago we saw the 1st ever 8 page pull out in a national sunday newspaper previewing this years Millenium Magic in Cardiff. These are signs that RL is growing, although I have to say that if England do win the World Cup, unfortunately I don't think they will be allowed the Civic reception in Trafalgar Square that the Union mob received, but who knows maybe in a few years...or do we even want a civic reception in Trafalgar square??!! haha