Shoalhaven to host 50th NSW Aboriginal Rugby League Knockout carnival

This year Shoalhaven will be hosting the 50th Annual Aboriginal Rugby League (ARL) Knockout. After two postponements, due to COVID-19, the event will now run from 30th September to 3rd October 2022, across two locations; Rugby Park and Bomaderry Sporting Complex in Nowra.

The Knockout is anticipated to attract over 50,000 people across the four days, boosting the Shoalhaven local economy by around $5.9 million.

To host the event, Council invested in bringing five playing fields up to NRL playing standards and a third field will be added to Rugby Park. Upgrades will leave a legacy for sporting groups across the Shoalhaven.

The Knockout is the largest gathering of Aboriginal people in Australia with the 2022 Knockout anticipated to bring together over 150 ARL teams in a celebration of Aboriginal culture through connection to rugby league.

To host the event, Council invested in bringing five playing fields up to NRL playing standards and a third field will be added to Rugby Park. Upgrades will leave a legacy for sporting groups across the Shoalhaven.

Mayor Amanda Findley is looking forward to the four-day event coming to the Shoalhaven this year and notes “this significant event will also bring great benefit to our region, through uniting our community and creating jobs. I would like to congratulate South Coast Black Cockatoos on winning the rights to host the event in the Shoalhaven.

“I encourage everyone to get behind the South Coast Black Cockatoos for this event which will leave a lasting legacy in the Shoalhaven.”

 The South Coast Black Cockatoos Chief Executive, Melissa Wellington adds “The Koori Knockout has earned the right to be known as an Elite Rugby League Carnival at a National Level. For the first time in the history of the event, we (SCBC Limited) are proud to host this in our hometown Nowra, on the South Coast.

“Many teams who have played at pervious Koori Knockouts know it’s an honour to represent your community, your blood lines and being part of the biggest gathering celebrating Aboriginal Culture through Rugby League.”

Council are excited to see this event, which will be broadcast both nationally and internationally through NITV, showcasing Bomaderry Oval and Rugby Park.

For more information visit the Aboriginal Rugby League Knockout event page.