(Port Stephens Council)
Newy 87.8 FM – The 2026 NSW Koori Knockout was staged over four days from 2 to 5 October at King Park Sporting Complex in Raymond Terrace, with around 180 teams competing.
The carnival was hosted by the Newcastle Yowies, who brought the event to Port Stephens after winning the 2025 men's title in Tamworth.
Port Stephens Council said the event, which combines rugby league with culture and community, attracts around 10,000 people per day from across New South Wales. The Knockout was established in 1971.
The carnival was held on Worimi Country, with Port Stephens Council acknowledging the Worimi as the original custodians of Port Stephens.
Port Stephens Mayor Leah Anderson said hosting the carnival was "a huge opportunity for Raymond Terrace", while Destination Port Stephens CEO Jo Thomas pointed to the economic benefit of the event.
On the field, the Yowies' defending champion men's side was eliminated in the first round, going down 7-6 to Dunghutti RLFC via a late field goal.
Join the discussion on Facebook.
