NSW TOUCH Football (NSWTF) has confirmed the Senior State Cup will remain in Port Macquarie for the next two years, following a competitive tender process.
The tender involved Port Macquarie-Hastings Council submitting a “comprehensive and strategically focused” bid that highlighted the region’s proven ability to deliver major sporting events.
Council’s submission also outlined recently completed upgrades to grandstand seating and identified infrastructure options to further improve the Tuffins Lane Sporting Fields.
Mayor Adam Roberts said the decision to return the tournament to Port reinforces the region’s long-standing connection to the sport and its strength as an events destination.
“Port Macquarie-Hastings is widely regarded as the spiritual home of touch, so we are absolutely delighted to see the NSW Senior State Cup remain where it belongs,” Mayor Roberts said.
“This tournament is a key cornerstone of our sporting event calendar.
“It brings thousands of players, officials and spectators to our region, injects millions of dollars into our local economy, and provides enormous flow-on benefits for tourism, accommodation and hospitality operators.
“The Port Macquarie Hastings region has so much to offer as a destination and this attraction continues to bring major events like [the] Senior State Cup back each year.”
NSWTF General Manager Dean Russell said the organisation was pleased to continue its partnership with the region.
“Our long-standing partnership has consistently delivered outstanding events for our community,” he said.
“We’re especially excited to return in 2027 to celebrate the 50th State Cup, which is a significant milestone for our sport.”
One sports-mad local cheering the announcement was PMHC councillor Nik Lipovac, who had previously expressed doubts about the region’s ability to retain the tournament.
“As stated previously I genuinely thought our chances were slim considering the quality of towns and venues vying for the opportunity to host this event and in saying that I apologise that I got this wrong,” Cr Lipovac stated on social media.
“Thank you NSW Touch Football and PMHC for working together to get this over the line.
“This will make tens of thousands of people very happy!”
The Senior State Cup will be held on 4-6 December 2026 and 3-5 December 2027.
By Sis HIGGINS
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