Inaugural rugby festival for North Sydney brings sport and community together
An inaugural Rugby Festival starts today in North Sydney launching four days of rugby, live entertainment, and after-school family fun.
The festival opens with a free afternoon of rugby activities, running from 2.30pm into the evening. Fans of all ages can head to North Sydney Oval to meet players from the Classic Wallabies and British & Irish Legends, take part in a junior rugby clinic, and even sing alongside a live band in support of Hearts in Rugby Union Australia.
Mayor Zoë Baker said the opening sets the tone for a festival that brings together sport, community, and celebration.
Mayor Baker advised "the opening is all about getting involved. Whether you're collecting autographs, snapping a selfie, trying your hand at rugby, or just soaking up the atmosphere, it's a celebration of sport, community and connection.”
The festival will be officially launched by Dr Marjorie O'Neill MP and Mayor Zoë Baker, alongside rugby greats from the Classic Wallabies and British & Irish Legends.
Highlights of the afternoon and evening include:
2.30pm – Watch the legends train ahead of Thursday's big match
4.30pm – Free junior rugby clinic for kids aged 4–16
5.30pm – Meet the legends, collect autographs, and snap family photos
6.00pm – Sing Your Hearts Out live-band karaoke night supporting Hearts in Rugby Union Australia (watch for free or register to sing)
The Festival Fan Zone in St Leonards Park will be open from 3.30pm, offering:
Live DJs and stage entertainment
Food trucks and local brews
Family-friendly games and activities
The North Sydney Rugby Festival runs from 30th July to 2nd August, with headline events including:
Classic Wallabies vs British & Irish Legends – Thursday 31st July
Wallaroos vs Wales – Friday 1st August
Wallabies vs The British & Irish Lions – Live screening on Saturday 2nd August
With its rich history and iconic setting, North Sydney Oval provides the perfect backdrop for this celebration of rugby.
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