Australian Masters Games General Manager Hayley Ianna and Central Coast Mayor Lawrie McKinna.

19 August 2026

 

THE media launch provided the first local preview of the Central Coast’s role in co-hosting the Games, including three sports that will bring competitors from across Australia to the region: football, dragon boat racing and ultimate.

 

The Central Coast will join Newcastle in co-hosting the 21st Australian Masters Games from 13–20 November 2027. Thousands of participants, supporters and volunteers are expected to visit the two regions during the week-long event.

 

The 2027 Games will mark the 40th anniversary of the biannual Australian Masters Games and its return to New South Wales for the first time in more than 25 years.

 

Football and dragon boat racing are traditionally among the largest sports on the Australian Masters Games program, while ultimate will [make its Games debut/return to the program] in 2027.

Central Coast Council Mayor Lawrie McKinna said the launch of the Australian Masters Games marks the beginning of an exciting journey for the region.

 

"We're delighted to partner with the City of Newcastle to bring the Australian Masters Games to the Central Coast and welcome competitors and supporters from across the country," Mayor McKinna said.

 

"The Games will generate economic activity for local businesses and provide a fantastic opportunity to highlight our great facilities, attractions and the welcoming spirit of our community."

 

Confederation of Australian Sport Chief Executive Officer Rob Bradley said the Central Coast would play an important part in delivering a memorable 40th anniversary Games.

 

“The Australian Masters Games is built around participation, friendship and the belief that sport should remain part of our lives at every age,” Mr Bradley said.

 

“The Central Coast offers an outstanding setting for the AMG and has the facilities, local sporting knowledge and community support needed to deliver a great experience.

 

“Today’s launch is an important step in bringing the Games to life locally. We want Central Coast residents to compete, volunteer, support the events and share their region with the thousands of visitors who will arrive in November 2027.”

 

As local sports prepare to welcome competitors, Dragon Boats NSW Business Development Manager Kathy Cummings said the organisation was excited to bring one of the Australian Masters Games’ largest and most colourful competitions to the Central Coast.

Dragon boat racing brings together competition, teamwork and a strong sense of community, making it a perfect fit for the Australian Masters Games,” Mrs Cummings said.

 

We’re looking forward to welcoming crews from across Australia to the Central Coast for what promises to be a fantastic celebration of our sport and the Australian Masters Games’ 40th anniversary.

 

The Games will provide an exciting opportunity to showcase the energy and camaraderie of dragon boat racing, while introducing even more people to the sport we love.

 

We’re incredibly excited to be part of the 2027 Australian Masters Games and to help make this milestone event one of the biggest and best yet.

 

Central Coast Football Chief Executive Officer Alex Burgin said the Games would showcase the region's football community on a national stage.

 

"Football is the most played sport on the Central Coast, with more than 16,500 registered participants across 24 clubs. Hosting Masters players from around the country is a natural fit for our region," he said.

 

"We are looking forward to working with the Australian Masters Games to deliver a well-run competition. Central Coast Football will manage the competition and match day operations and visiting players can expect quality pitches, tight scheduling and a genuine Central Coast welcome."

 

NSW Ultimate CEO Ivan Spyrdz welcomed ultimate’s return to the Australian Masters Games program.

 

“We are thrilled to have Ultimate included in the Australian Masters Games for the very first time in 2027,” Mr Spyrdz said.

 

“Ultimate is fun, inclusive, and deeply community-driven. Joining the Games lineup is a huge milestone for our sport, giving Masters players a grand stage to compete on and offering new audiences a chance to experience the Spirit of the Game firsthand.

 

"If you have thrown a frisbee, you can play Ultimate.

 

“The Central Coast is an incredible backdrop for the 2027 Australian Masters Games. We encourage everyone to come along, get involved and have a fantastic experience on the Central Coast."

 

First held in Tasmania in 1987, the Australian Masters Games has grown into one of Australia’s largest regular multi-sport festivals. Participants compete in age categories that generally begin at 30 years, with no qualification standards required for most sports.

 

Further information about venues, the complete sports program, registrations and volunteering opportunities will be released in the lead-up to the Games.

 

For updates, visit Australian Masters Games and subscribe to the Australian Masters Games newsletter.

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