Port Stephens Council supports bid to host Koori Knockout 2026

Source: Inside Sport

Last night Council unanimously endorsed support for a bid to host one of Australia’s largest Aboriginal sporting and cultural events.

The Koori Knockout combines elite rugby league with four days of culture, connection and celebration, attracting around 10,000 people per day from across NSW.

Port Stephens Mayor Leah Anderson said the event strongly aligns with Council's commitment to inclusive, connected and liveable communities.

“We're proud to support the bid to hopefully bring the Koori Knockout to Raymond Terrace”, Mayor Anderson said.

“This event brings people together, helping local families experience a significant cultural event right here at home. It creates a powerful sense of local pride and celebrates the strength, culture and leadership of Aboriginal communities.

“The Koori Knockout puts Port Stephens, particularly Raymond Terrace, on the national stage.

“We’re already investing in Raymond Terrace through housing delivery, infrastructure upgrades and revitalisation. Hosting the Knockout would support this momentum and showcase our region as welcoming, capable and ready for investment,” Mayor Anderson added.

East Ward Councillor Nathan Errington said there are real economic benefits for the local community if Raymond Terrace wins the bid to host the event.

“We expect millions of dollars to go to local businesses, accommodation, hospitality and services over the four days,” Councillor Errington said.

“The national exposure will show Port Stephens as a culturally rich destination that encourages visitors to come back outside peak seasons, helping to spread tourism across Port Stephens so towns like Raymond Terrace share in visits, investment and jobs.

“The event will also create employment, volunteering and training opportunities, especially for young people,” Councillor Errington added.

“We hope to welcome communities from across NSW to celebrate sport, culture and connection in Raymond Terrace as part of the Koori Knockout and look forward to the outcome of our bid,” Mayor Anderson said.  

The successful bid will be announced by the Newcastle Yowies in the coming days.