| Photo Opp | Date | Time | Location | In Attendance / Details |
| North Sydney Rugby Festival Kick-Off | Wed 30 July | 3pm | Bon Andrews Oval 2 Fig Tree Lane, North Sydney NSW 2060 | Purpose: Media photo opportunity to mark the start of the festival with captains' runs and VIPs. In attendance:
|
Official Opening – Fan Zone |
Wed 30 July |
3.15pm | Fan Zone Area, St Leonards Park | Purpose: Media photo opportunity featuring the formal ribbon-cutting ceremony and speeches to officially open the festival. In attendance:
|
North Sydney will roar to life on Wednesday 30 July as the inaugural North Sydney Rugby Festival launches four days of thrilling rugby, live entertainment, and after-school family fun.
The festival opens with a free afternoon of rugby activities, running from 2.30pm into the evening. Fans of all ages can head to North Sydney Oval to meet iconic players from the Classic Wallabies and British & Irish Legends, take part in a junior rugby clinic, and even sing alongside a live band in support of Hearts in Rugby Union Australia.
Mayor Zoë Baker said the opening sets the tone for a festival that brings together sport, community, and celebration.
"The opening is all about getting involved. Whether you're collecting autographs, snapping a selfie, trying your hand at rugby, or just soaking up the atmosphere, it's a celebration of sport, community and connection," Mayor Baker said.
The festival will be officially launched by Dr Marjorie O'Neill MP and Mayor Zoë Baker, alongside rugby greats from the Classic Wallabies and British & Irish Legends.
Highlights of the afternoon and evening include:
- 2.30pm – Watch the legends train ahead of Thursday's big match
- 4.30pm – Free junior rugby clinic for kids aged 4–16
- 5.30pm – Meet the legends, collect autographs, and snap family photos
- 6.00pm – Sing Your Hearts Out live-band karaoke night supporting Hearts in Rugby Union Australia (watch for free or register to sing)
The Festival Fan Zone in St Leonards Park will be open from 3.30pm, offering:
- Live DJs and stage entertainment
- Food trucks and local brews
- Family-friendly games and activities
The North Sydney Rugby Festival runs from 30 July to 2 August, with headline events including:
With its rich history and iconic setting, North Sydney Oval provides the perfect backdrop for this celebration of rugby.
