The Koori Netball Tournament will return to the Charlestown Netball Association courts on Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 October 2025, bringing together more than 5,000 people from across New South Wales for a weekend of netball, family, and cultural connection.
Now in its 26th year, the much-loved tournament has grown from just nine teams in 1999 to more than 125 teams representing communities from Dubbo in the West, Taree in the north west, Illawarra in the south, Tweed on the far north coast.
The event has become a highlight on the calendar for First Nations netballers and their families, creating a true carnival atmosphere filled with laughter, friendship, and fierce competition.
“It’s the best weekend of the whole year,” said Dianne Pascoe, former President of the Charlestown Netball Association and the driving force behind the tournament.
“They get their mob and bring in new people from the area to make up their teams.”
Over two massive days, more than 1,500 games of netball will be played across multiple divisions — from 10 years through to Open Women’s and Mixed — as players, families, and supporters come together to celebrate community through sport.
Campbelltown will field nine teams this year, blending families and newcomers who have recently joined the area. A few local girls from Charlestown will proudly deliver the Welcome to Country, setting the tone for a weekend grounded in respect and unity.
“The players have the best time catching up with family and relatives from different communities – they come from Dubbo, Baulkham Hills and Newcastle,” Dianne said.
“For every netball player, there are at least four other people who come along for the fun – they bring their Elders, their kiddies to watch while Mum and Dad play on the court.”
Although Pascoe is not of First Nations heritage, she has been deeply moved by the tournament’s meaning and spirit since its inception.
“It’s so different to what I have experienced before. The atmosphere has resonated with me from the very first tournament. I love it. To me it’s all about encouraging people to play netball.”
The Koori Netball Tournament is delivered by Charlestown Netball Association, supported by the Office of Sport and Netball NSW, with the event now recognised as one of the largest and most significant gatherings for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander netballers in the state.
Netball NSW will also be on site to identify talented 11–13-year-old girls for development camps, supporting pathways for First Nations athletes, as well as opportunities for umpires and coaches to grow their skills.
“The Koori Netball Tournament is such a special event on our calendar – it’s about much more than competition,” said Trish Crews, Executive General Manager – Communities at Netball NSW.
“It’s about celebrating culture, creating opportunity, and building connections that last long after the final whistle. Every time we see communities come together for this event, it’s a reminder of the power of sport to unite and inspire.”
A ‘Spirit Award’ will once again be presented on Sunday to the team that best embodies sportsmanship, camaraderie, and respect throughout the two-day tournament – a fitting reflection of what the event stands for.
“The Spirit Award reflects what this event is all about,” Ms Crews said. “It’s not just about winning – it’s about how you play the game, how you support your teammates, and how you represent your community.”
NSW Minister for Sport Steve Kamper said:
“The Koori Netball Tournament is a great example of how sport can enhance reconciliation by bringing people together in a healthy, positive environment.
“The Minns Labor Government is proud to support this wonderful event.
“The Tournament is always a weekend of fun and inclusive competition, and I wish everyone involved the best of luck.”
Charlestown MP Jodie Harrison said:
“The Koori Netball Tournament is a highlight for our local area each year. Watching people coming together – either as players or spectators over these two days – shows how sport can really unite.
“I wish all the teams the very best of luck for the tournament!”
As one of the state’s most vibrant celebrations of netball, culture, and connection, the Koori Netball Tournament continues to unite generations and communities through a shared love of the game.
Frances Cordaro, Netball NSW
