newy.com.au – Newcastle will host more than 1,300 school athletes for School Sport Australia Games 05 in October 2026.
School Sport Australia says 1,304 athletes and more than 200 team officials will participate, representing states and territories across Australia. More than 3,000 family members and supporters attended the opening celebrations at Newcastle No. 2 Sportsground on Sunday 25 October.
School Sport Australia president Graeme Jennings said the First Nations team’s inclusion was a milestone for the event.
“We are particularly proud to welcome a Football Australia First Nations team for the first time. This milestone reflects our commitment to inclusive sporting opportunities for young Australians from all backgrounds.”
The seven sport program begins with cricket on Sunday 25 October. Basketball, hockey, softball, golf, football and touch football competitions will run from Monday 26 to Friday 30 October.
The opening festival starts at 3.30pm on the Sunday, followed by the opening ceremony from 5.30pm to 7pm. A grand march will bring the athletes and officials together before supporters.
Local students will feature in an Auslan performance of the Australian national anthem by Coast to Hunter Combined Signers. The Hunter School of Performing Arts Marching Show Band is also scheduled to perform.
Australian Olympic hockey player Simon Orchard will deliver a guest address. Jennings and City of Newcastle councillor Peta Winney-Baartz are also scheduled to speak, and a pyrotechnic display is planned to mark the official opening.
Organisers expect visiting athletes and supporters to generate business for local accommodation, hospitality and tourism operators.
Cr Winney-Baartz welcomed the national event and its focus on participation.
“It is particularly exciting to see the emphasis on participation, inclusion and the diversity of Australia’s young athletes. We look forward to a memorable week of sport.”
