The Coffs Coast is preparing to take centre stage this April, with the highly anticipated Coffs Coast Festival of Rugby set to deliver a four-day celebration of the game from 4–12 April 2026.
Delivered by NSW Rugby in partnership with the City of Coffs Harbour and Mid North Coast Rugby Union, the festival will bring together elite international talent, emerging players, and grassroots participants in one of the most comprehensive rugby events staged in regional New South Wales.
The Coffs Coast Festival of Rugby is designed to connect the full rugby ecosystem — from international competition through to community participation.
Across the four days, the program will feature:
- International fixtures involving teams from Japan, Fiji and Australia
- A headline match under lights at C.ex Coffs International Stadium
- Junior tournaments and development pathways
- Women’s rugby competitions
- Golden Oldies matches for veteran players
- Community activations and Rugby For Good initiatives
The festival will welcome thousands of players, volunteers and spectators, reinforcing the strength of rugby across regional NSW while creating a vibrant, inclusive event for all ages.
A key highlight of the festival is the international match day experience, with fixtures showcasing rising Australian talent alongside global opposition.
Fans can expect a full evening of rugby action, including:
- Fiji vs Australian representative side
- Japan U23 vs Australia U20
All played under lights at the region’s premier venue, creating a major-event atmosphere on the Mid North Coast.
- 4 April - Grafton v Australian Stockman – Grafton Rugby Club – 13:00 kick off (local time)
- 4 April - Japan U23 v Fiji U20 – Grafton Rugby Club – 15:00 kick off (local time)
- 8 April - Japan U23 v Australian Stockman – Verge Street Oval, Kempsey – 15:00 kick off (local time)
- 8 April - Australian U20 v Fiji U20 – Verge Street Oval, Kempsey – 17:00 kick off (local time) 11 April - Fiji U20 v Australian Stockman - Coffs International Stadium – 17:00 kick off (local time)
- 11 April - Australian U20 v Japan U23 - Coffs International Stadium – 19:00 kick off (local time)
Fans who can’t make it to the Mid North Coast won’t miss a moment, with all matches live streamed on NSW Rugby TV.
From Grafton to Kempsey and into Coffs Harbour, every fixture will be broadcast, giving supporters across the state the opportunity to see some of the up and coming Australia, Fiji and Japanese talent.
NSW Rugby TV continues to connect communities, clubs and fans - and the Coffs Coast Festival of Rugby is set to be one of the platform’s premier events in 2026.
Head to https://nswrugbytv.com.au/ to watch all the action live.
Beyond the on-field action, the festival delivers a broader experience for the community and visitors alike.
The program includes:
- A golf day and fundraising luncheon
- School and community engagement initiatives
- Regional tourism experiences across the Coffs Coast
Importantly, the festival also plays a role in supporting Rugby For Good programs, using rugby as a vehicle to drive positive social outcomes across regional communities.
A major moment for regional rugby
The Coffs Coast Festival of Rugby forms part of a long-term vision to grow the game in regional NSW, building momentum ahead of global events such as the Rugby World Cups in 2027 and 2029.
By combining elite competition, community participation and social impact, the festival highlights the power of rugby to connect people, strengthen communities and create lasting legacy.
Whether you’re a player, supporter, or simply looking for a unique Easter getaway, the Coffs Coast Festival of Rugby offers something for everyone.
Come for the rugby. Stay for the coast. Leave with stories.
