The Mackay Indigenous Rugby League Carnival will return to South Mackay from September 25 to 27. Teams will be travelling from across Northern Queensland, bringing together three days of rugby league, culture and community.
Hosted by the Mackay Stallions Indigenous Corporation at the Mackay and District Rugby League grounds, the carnival will celebrate its 10-year anniversary in 2026, marking a decade of creating opportunities for Indigenous players and strengthening connections across communities.
Teams will compete in the Open Men's, Open Women's and Under 17 Boys divisions, with matches played across the weekend before the carnival concludes in a grand final showdown on Sunday.
Since its establishment in 2016, the event has grown into one of North Queensland's leading Indigenous rugby league carnivals, attracting teams and participants from across Queensland, the Torres Strait and surrounding regions.
The carnival celebrates much more than results on the scoreboard. It provides an opportunity to celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture, promote health and wellbeing, foster community connection and create pathways for emerging athletes to showcase their talent.
Families, Elders, volunteers, community organisations and rugby league stakeholders come together throughout the weekend, helping deliver an event that reflects the strength of rugby league in connecting communities and creating positive outcomes for future generations.
Carnival convener Neil Seden said the event continues to have a lasting impact both on and off the field.
"The Mackay Indigenous rugby league carnival is much more than a football event. It is a celebration of culture, community and opportunity," he said.
Each year the carnival brings together players, families and communities from across Queensland to connect through rugby league, celebrate Indigenous culture and create positive experiences that leave a lasting impact on participants both on and off the field.
Spectators are encouraged to come along and experience a weekend that celebrates rugby league, culture and community in the heart of North Queensland.
Event Details:
Where: Mackay and District Rugby League grounds, 2 Casey Avenue, South Mackay
When: Friday September 25 to Sunday September 27
