Newcastle is set to pursue hosting rights for the 2026 Koori Knockout, one of the largest Indigenous sport and cultural gatherings in the southern hemisphere. The move follows the Newcastle Yowies' victory in the 2025 tournament, which earned them the right to host the following year's event.
City of Newcastle councillors have asked chief executive Jeremy Bath to approach the Yowies to explore a partnership for hosting the knockout in 2026. Labor councillor Peta Winney-Baartz described the Yowies' achievement as unprecedented, highlighting the depth of local Indigenous sporting talent and the spirit surrounding the team.
The Koori Knockout, first held in 1971, has evolved beyond a football tournament into a modern-day corroboree, according to Cr Winney-Baartz. She noted that the event attracts up to 50,000 visitors over four days, bringing significant economic benefits and opportunities for reconciliation.
The council will assess suitable venues, facilities, infrastructure, coordination, and community engagement to support the hosting bid. Cr Winney-Baartz emphasized that hosting the event would demonstrate leadership in reconciliation and reflect the Newcastle spirit embodied by the Yowies' hard work and unity.
The Yowies secured the men's final title on October 6 in Tamworth with a late field goal by former NRL player Kyle Laybutt. The team was coached by Ron Griffiths, who previously led the Knights to back-to-back NRLW titles. Notable NRL figures such as Bradman Best, Fletcher Hunt, and Wayne Bennett were involved with the tournament this year.
Labor councillor Deahnna Richardson stressed the importance of early discussions, as the process to host the Koori Knockout is highly competitive among local government areas. The event now includes divisions for men, women, and under-17 boys and girls, and has been hosted in various NSW locations since its inception.
