The Port Macquarie Hastings region has once again cemented its reputation as the spiritual home of touch football in NSW, with NSW Touch Football confirming the Senior State Cup will stay in Port Macquarie for the next two years.
Mayor Adam Roberts said the announcement reinforces the region's long-standing connection to the sport and its reputation as a leading destination for major events.
"Port Macquarie-Hastings is widely regarded as the spiritual home of touch, so we are absolutely delighted to see the NSW Senior State Cup remain where it belongs," Mayor Roberts said.
"This tournament is a key cornerstone of our sporting event calendar. It brings thousands of players, officials and spectators to our region, injects millions of dollars into our local economy, and provides enormous flow-on benefits for tourism, accommodation and hospitality operators."
"The Port Macquarie Hastings region has so much to offer as a destination and this attraction continues to bring major events like Senior State Cup back each year."
General Manager NSW Touch Football Dean Russell said the organisation was delighted that Port Macquarie will host the event for the next two years.
"Our long-standing partnership has consistently delivered outstanding events for our community," he said.
"We're especially excited to return in 2027 to celebrate the 50th State Cup which is a significant milestone for our sport."
The successful outcome follows a highly competitive tender process, with Council's comprehensive and strategically focused bid highlighting the region's proven capability of delivering the event and experience as a destination.
The submission outlined recently completed upgrades to grandstand seating and highlighted infrastructure options to improve the Tuffins Lane Sporting Fields, with a focus on enhancing playing conditions.
Mayor Roberts also highlighted Council's continued strong partnership with local clubs and the broader touch community as a major event drawcard.
"Our local sporting community plays a crucial role in the success of this event each year. From volunteers and clubs to accommodation providers and hospitality operators, this is truly a whole-of-community effort and one we are incredibly proud of."
"Our focus now for the next two years will be to deliver two successful Senior State Cup tournaments and continue to honour our long-standing commitment to the sport."
