The City of Coffs Harbour and NSW Rugby Union have officially entered a landmark three-year partnership to deliver the Coffs Coast Festival of Rugby, solidifying the region’s reputation as a premier destination for high-level sporting events and elite teams training camps.
This long-term commitment will see the festival grow into one of the country’s leading rugby events, bringing together elite international matches, grassroots competitions, and community engagement initiatives to showcase the very best of rugby on the Coffs Coast.
The agreement ensures the festival will remain a flagship event on the Australian rugby calendar and provide ongoing economic, social, and health benefits for the region.
Beyond the action on the field, the Coffs Coast Festival of Rugby will serve as a major fundraising platform for the NSW Positive Rugby Foundation, supporting the delivery of Rugby For Good programs that directly impact the health and wellbeing of communities across Northern NSW. Funds raised from the festival will go towards initiatives such as:
- Rugby In The Park – Providing access to human connection and physical activity for people experiencing homelessness and social disconnection.
- Kickstart – A rugby program designed to engage and empower young people in youth justice centres.
- Get Talkin' – A mental health and resilience program that uses rugby as a vehicle for open conversations and support.
Coffs Harbour’s world-class sporting infrastructure, stunning natural environment, and welcoming community, make it the perfect hub for hosting elite teams and major sporting events.
With facilities such as C.ex Coffs International Stadium and high-performance training venues, the region has already proven its ability to attract national and international teams with the Japan Development Team, Australian Barbarians, and
Australian U20s all set to base themselves in Coffs Harbour as part of this year’s festival.
Mayor of Coffs Harbour, Nikki Williams, welcomed the partnership, highlighting the long-term benefits for local businesses, tourism, and sporting communities.
"This festival is going to be a crowd-pleaser, and we have the perfect stage for elite sports spectacles in the C.ex Coffs International Stadium,” Mayor Williams said.
“Onfield and o; we look forward to hosting some of Australia’s rising domestic players and those from Japan – providing a world-class setting to promote all things rugby.
“Importantly, this three-year partnership will deliver for the local community and serve as an enabler for a raft of positive social outcomes through the Rugby For Good initiatives.”
NSW Rugby Union CEO Peter Murphy echoed the excitement, emphasising the festival’s role in growing the game and strengthening community connections.
"This partnership is a game-changer for rugby in regional NSW. Coffs Harbour is a proven destination for elite sport, and having the support of the City of Coffs Harbour ensures we can continue to deliver a world-class event that engages the entire community.
From junior participation to elite competition, the festival will showcase every level of the game while providing an incredible experience for fans and players alike. Most importantly, the festival will help us raise crucial funds to deliver Rugby For Good programs that make a meaningful impact on people's lives."
The Coffs Coast Festival of Rugby is set to feature:
- Elite international clashes, including Japan A vs Australian Barbarians
- Community activations & school engagement programs
- The Coffs Coast Challenge – a premier junior & social rugby tournament
- The Mid North Coast Super Round, featuring over 2,000 grassroots players
- A Corporate Golf Day and Charity Fundraising Luncheon to support the delivery of Mental Health workshops and Suicide Prevention programs.
This partnership ensures the festival will continue to thrive and grow, further establishing Coffs Harbour as a premier destination for rugby and elite sport, while also delivering real and lasting benefits to the wider community.
Get Involved! For more information and ticket sales visit coffscoast.com.au/rugby
