The University of Newcastle and the Wollotuka Institute were proud to be named community partners of the 2026 Koori Knockout, one of the largest annual gatherings celebrating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture, community and rugby league.
Hosted by the 2025 champions, the Newcastle Yowies, on Worimi Country at Raymond Terrace, the Knockout brought together more than 40,000 people from across the country for four days. The event featured 172 teams competing across youth boys' and girls', and senior men's and women's divisions, showcasing some of the best Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander sporting talent in Australia.
Wiradjuri man and University of Newcastle Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Engagement and Equity, Nathan Towney, said the University's partnership with the Koori Knockout extends beyond event-day participation.
"Our involvement in the Koori Knockout goes beyond having a presence at the event. It creates opportunities to connect with community, support important conversations and strengthen relationships that continue long after the final whistle," Mr Towney said.
As a community partner, the University of Newcastle's Future Students team and the Wollotuka Institute worked alongside student ambassadors to deliver an interactive space promoting study and pathway opportunities. The activation connected prospective students with information about higher education while giving student ambassadors the chance to represent the University and connect with community.
The University also contributed to the event's on-site health services, with eight physiotherapy students joining the medical team. Working alongside the Australian Physiotherapy Association and experienced physiotherapists from Healthia, the students helped deliver free physiotherapy care to athletes throughout the tournament, supporting the health and wellbeing of participants across the four-day event.
Heathia's physiotherapists worked closely with the students, providing mentorship and practical guidance while sharing insights gained from years of supporting professional sporting teams.
"The Knockout is about more than rugby league. It's an opportunity to come together, celebrate culture and recognise the strength of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. We're proud to support an event that brings so many people together and provides meaningful ways for our students and staff to contribute," Mr Towney said.
The partnership reflects the University's ongoing commitment to supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities through meaningful engagement and initiatives that celebrate culture, creating opportunities and delivering lasting benefits beyond the event itself.
Koori Knockout 2026 Results
Division |
Winners |
Runner Up |
Score |
Men's |
Wiradjuri Aboriginal Rivers |
Bourke Warriors |
26-6 |
Women's |
Newcastle Yowies |
Redfern All Blacks |
14-6 |
Under 17 Boys |
Narwan Connections |
Waterloo Storm Academy |
22-10 |
Under 17 Girls |
Dunghutti RLFC |
La Perouse |
14-4 |
Under 15 Boys |
La Perouse |
Dunghutti |
10-4 |
Under 15 Girls |
Newcastle Yowies |
Blacktown Redbelly Warriors |
12-4 |
Under 13 Boys |
Newcastle Yowies |
Wiradjuri Aboriginal Rivers |
10-6 |
