Rockhampton will take centre court this weekend as six elite netball teams from as far north as Cairns converge for the Capricorn Claws Home Game Round.
Supported by a $2,000 grant through Rockhampton Regional Council's Community Assistance Program, the event is part of the Hart Premier Netball League Ruby North competition.
The league began in 2025, providing a new pathway for regional netballers after the Queensland State League was disbanded in 2018.
Rockhampton Regional Council Mayor Tony Williams said the event highlights the region's growing reputation as a hub for high-quality sport.
"It's great to see elite netball played right here in Rockhampton, bringing players and supporters into our community," Mayor Williams said.
"Our region has built a strong reputation as a sporting hub, and events like this continue to showcase talent and competition we have across Central Queensland.
"With Stage 1 of the Rockhampton Sports Precinct and new home for Rockhampton netball on the horizon, we're building the capacity to host even more major sporting events.
"This will strengthen pathways for local athletes and help attract more regional netball competitions in the future."
Capricorn Claws Treasurer Samantha Dippel said the grant would help with running the event and support the ongoing growth and sustainability of high-performance netball in Central Queensland.
"The Home Game Round is vital in showcasing the talent that exists within Central Queensland and demonstrating the demand for elite netball opportunities outside South East Queensland," Ms Dippel said.
"The event gives young athletes visible role models, inspires future generations, and allows local communities to see high-level netball in their own backyard.
"It also reinforces that regional athletes should not have to leave their communities to access quality development opportunities and representative pathways."
The Capricorn Claws Home Game Round will be held at CQUniversity, with the first game kicking off at 9am on Saturday, 13 June, and from 8am on Sunday, 14 June.
The Community Assistance Program supports non-profit, community-based organisations with funding through grants and sponsorships for projects and events that enhance the region's wellbeing.
Applications for the next round of the Community Assistance Program are now open and will close on Friday, 10 July.
