Three regional NSW towns vie for 2027 Koori Knockout hosting rights
Orange, Bathurst, and Dubbo are bidding to host the 2027 Koori Knockout after Raymond Terrace's successful 2026 carnival.
The 2026 Koori Knockout drew a massive crowd to Raymond Terrace during the October long weekend. First Nations rugby league teams from across NSW celebrated at the carnival.
As this year's men's champions, Wiradjuri Aboriginal Rivers now holds full decision-making power over where the 2027 carnival takes place. Orange is pushing for its first hosting, with councillor Gerald Power confident the city can deliver if Bathurst managed it before.
Bathurst previously hosted in 2024. It can offer six rectangular fields with drainage, clubhouses, ample parking, and sits three hours from Sydney.
Dubbo has hosted multiple times and highlights its Indigenous population of 18 per cent, plus economic boost for local businesses. Each town is preparing formal bids with venue costs and logistics.
Port Stephens Mayor Leah Anderson reflected on Raymond Terrace's success as "like a big family reunion."
- Orange, Bathurst, Dubbo
- Bidding towns
- 2024
- Bathurst hosting year
- Three hours
- Bathurst distance from Sydney
- 18 per cent
- Dubbo Indigenous population
Why it mattersThe Koori Knockout brings significant economic activity and cultural celebration to whichever regional community hosts it.
AustraliaA regional NSW town will gain weeks of Indigenous rugby league activity, tourism, and community focus as host of Australia's premier First Nations sporting carnival.
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