ACT Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister mark 100 Days until 20th Australian Masters Games

Canberra’s Red Shed came alive today as the ACT Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister officially marked 100 days to go until the 20th Australian Masters Games.

As one of the country’s largest and most inclusive multisport festivals, this will be the third time that Canberra has hosted the Games. This year’s 20th edition marks the return of the Games in Canberra after 22 years. The Games will run from 18th to 25th October, drawing more than 7,000 local and interstate participants, officials and supporters to the nation’s capital.

Chief Minister Andrew Barr, who addressed guests alongside the Deputy Chief Minister Yvette Berry, said the Games will be a significant event for Canberra, stating "in just 100 days, Canberra will proudly welcome thousands of athletes from across Australia for the 20th Australian Masters Games.

“The Games will deliver a timely boost to the economy, with more than 7,000 interstate and local participants and supporters expected to stay, play and explore Canberra.”

With 50 sports hosted across more than 40 venues across the territory, the Games will highlight Canberra’s high-quality sporting infrastructure, club networks, and passion for active living.

The Chief Minister emphasised the role of sport in strengthening communities across generations, noting "the Australian Masters Games showcase the power of sport to unite and energise Australians of all ages.

“Many Canberrans participate in sport; from juniors picking up a ball for the first time, to masters athletes still chasing personal bests, or podiums. With most sports open to participants aged 30 and over, the Games redefine what it means to be an athlete."

Advising that community energy is building rapidly in the lead-up to October, Australian Masters Games General Manager, Adam Drinkwell explained "there’s a real buzz across Canberra now that we’ve hit the 100 days to go mark,” Adam Drinkwell said. “We’ve locked in 50 sports, an exciting week of social events showcasing the best of Canberra, and registrations are flowing in from all corners of the country, and even internationally.

“The Australian Masters Games are more than a sporting event. They’re about connection, resilience, and the joy of being active at any age. It’s proof that our masters community can take on any challenge, and play without limits.”

The event also featured local athletes, sporting clubs, sponsors, and volunteers who will be central to delivering the Games later this year.

With preparations in full swing, organisers are encouraging Canberrans and visitors alike to get involved. There are plenty of opportunities for locals to register to compete, volunteer, or show up to cheer on participants in October.

For more information, visit www.australianmastersgames.com

Images: Attendees at the 2025 Australian Masters Games launch event.