New South Wales’ largest indigenous sporting event will be held at the Central Coast over the October long weekend this year. Central Coast Council is pleased to have won the bid to host this year’s NSW Aboriginal Rugby League Knockout in partnership with the Newcastle All Blacks team, who took out the title at last year’s event.

Also referred to as ‘The Koori Knockout’, this mass participation sporting event showcases some of the best Indigenous Rugby League talent in the country and holds a highly regarded and significant place on the Indigenous calendar.

This year’s event will be held at the Central Coast Regional Sporting and Recreation Complex at Tuggerah, the new $23.7million facility currently in the final stages of construction and due for completion in the coming months.

Central Coast Mayor Jane Smith said hosting this event would deliver significant benefits to the local community and aligns with community objectives outlined in Council’s Community Strategic Plan.

“With this event set to attract around 140 participating teams and thousands of spectators our local tourist economy will be boosted by an estimated $6 million, providing a direct benefit to our region’s small businesses and local employment,” Mayor Smith said.

“In addition, this event promotes active lifestyles, connects our community by fostering a sense of belonging for our local indigenous population and supports reconciliation through the celebration of Aboriginal cultures.

“This is a great example of when government, the indigenous community and sporting organisations work together we can deliver great events and opportunities for our community and our region.

“I encourage everyone in the community to come along to this event and showcase what a great community spirit we have on the Central Coast.”

Newcastle All Blacks President Edward Smith said that the Central Coast Regional Sporting & Recreation Complex is a great venue for this event and they were thrilled to be one of the first major events to be held at the grounds.

“A formidable alliance was formed between Central Coast Council, Darkinjung Local Aboriginal Land Council, Awabakal, Koori Mail and the Newcastle All Blacks to bring the 49th NSW Aboriginal Rugby League Knockout to the Central Coast. This is an achievement that the whole community can be proud of.”

The Central Coast Regional Sporting and Recreation Complex has been jointly funded by the Australian Government with a $10million National Stronger Regions Fund grant and Council’s contribution of $13.71million.