The Queensland Murri Carnival is set to return to Brisbane this week, bringing together Indigenous rugby league players, families and communities from across the state for one of the sport's most significant community events.
Hosted at South Pine Sporting Complex, the carnival will see senior teams take the field from September 18-20, before the junior competition begins from September 20-24.
More than just a rugby league carnival, the Queensland Murri Carnival provides a pathway for Indigenous players to showcase their talents while promoting healthy lifestyles, community connection and cultural pride.
Participation in the carnival comes with important commitments that extend beyond the football field. All players are required to complete a current 715 health check to be eligible to play, while senior players must be enrolled to vote. Players under the age of 15 are also required to maintain 90% school attendance, reinforcing the carnival's focus on health, education and community responsibility.
The carnival operates under a strict smoke-free, vape-free, drug-free, alcohol-free and sugar-free policy, helping create a safe and positive environment for players, families and supporters throughout the week.
Queensland Murri Rugby League continues to play a vital role in supporting Indigenous participation in the game. One of its key goals is to increase Indigenous representation in the NRL from the current 11% to 15%, targeting an overall 4% growth in participation over a three to five-year period.
The carnival also provides a structured environment where players can pursue opportunities to progress to representative and national pathways, while being supported by their communities.
Beyond the on-field action, the event is committed to strengthening rugby league in Indigenous communities across Queensland. Queensland Murri Rugby League works closely with its network of communities to promote and develop the carnival as a premier statewide event while fostering long-term opportunities for participants.
Revenue generated through the Arthur Beetson Foundation is also reinvested into Indigenous rugby league programs and structures endorsed by Queensland Rugby League, helping establish sustainable, sport-focused community initiatives across the state.
As teams prepare to gather in Brisbane, the Queensland Murri Carnival once again promises to showcase outstanding rugby league talent while celebrating the culture, connection and community spirit that make the event so special.
Queensland Murri Carnival Dates
Senior Carnival
September 18-20
South Pine Sporting Complex
Junior Carnival
September 20-24
South Pine Sporting Complex
Further information, including draws and team details, will be released closer to the carnival.
