More than 45,000 people came to Raymond Terrace for the 2026 NSW Koori Knockout, making it a record-breaking four days of Aboriginal sport, culture and community on Worimi Country.
Port Stephens Council was proud to support the Newcastle Yowies in delivering Australia's biggest sporting and cultural event, helping bring the event to King Park from 2 to 5 October.
The Knockout attracted teams, families and supporters from across NSW, creating a significant opportunity for local businesses, with accommodation, hospitality, retail and local contractors reporting increased activity over the long weekend.
Pre-event modelling estimated the event could generate around $10 million in regional economic benefit. Council will now work with local businesses to better understand the actual economic impact.
The event also featured the first dedicated Gudida Wellbeing Precinct, bringing health and wellbeing services and information to the Knockout through the Cancer Institute NSW.
Council worked closely with the Newcastle Yowies, Port Stephens Hunter Police, Transport for NSW, Ambulance NSW, SES, local contractors, sporting clubs, volunteers and the wider community to support the event.
The successful delivery of the Knockout provides a strong foundation for future major sporting events in Port Stephens, showing the region's capacity to welcome large-scale events and deliver opportunities for local businesses and the community.
King Park remains a deconstruction zone this week as the site is prepared for the return of local sport. Cricket and athletics will return from Saturday 10 October.
