A record-breaking 134 teams, 1,800+ players and 300 officials kicked off the 2025 Festival of Touch at Coomera Sports Park over the weekend, with strong crowds, vibrant atmosphere and high-quality touch football across all divisions.
QTF CEO Greg Denny said the growth reflects the strength of the sport statewide:
“This growth reflects the passion of our community and the unwavering support of the Gold Coast.”
International and invitational teams from Japan, Fiji, New Zealand, Phoenix Touch and Ballina All Abilities added global flavour, while more than 5,000 spectators per day enjoyed live entertainment and full broadcast coverage on Kayo Sports.
Queensland Touch Football Brand Ambassador Scott Prince praised the opening weekend:
“This year’s record numbers prove touch footy is thriving. It’s an epic start to the Festival of Touch.”
Redlands Premier Men’s Captain David Richards credited their consistency to experience and long-term cohesion:
“We knew we were the hunted. But we went out there and played our game and the rest is history.”
“We’ve got experienced players who have played together for a long time — we know what it takes.”
Already winners of back-to-back Metro Cup titles and finalists for Team of the Year, David reinforced their hunger:
“It’s a testament to the value of our group — and we’re not done yet.”
Their dramatic semi-final win over Redlands — coming back from three tries down to win 10–9 in drop-off — was one of the moments of the weekend.
Coach Lauren Dayberg-Muir said the performance reflected who they are:
“Culture is key. We’re not about winning tournaments. We genuinely love and respect each other.”
Supported by Origin talents Danielle Norman and Hinerangi Andreassend, her young squad showed maturity well beyond their years. And Lauren is already looking ahead:
“A lot of hard work. A bigger comeback.”
A Strong Start to the Festival of Touch
With the State Cup now complete, the Festival continues with the QTF Conference, QTF Awards, SEQ Schools Beach Gala Day and the QLD All Nations Tournament.
Results:
All Abilities: BMTA
Men’s Premier: Redlands
Women’s Premier: UQ Rebels
Mixed Premier: Coolum
Men’s Open: Redlands
Women’s Open: Palm Beach
Mixed Open: Brothers
Men’s U20s: Arana
Women’s U20s: BMTA
Mixed U20s: Brothers
Men’s 30s: Gold Coast
Women’s 30s: Palm Beach
Mixed 30s: Kawana
Men’s 40s: Palm Beach
Women’s 40s: Arana
Mixed 40s: Toowoomba
Men’s 45s: Arana
Men’s 50s: Gold Coast
Women’s 45s: Arana
Women’s 50s: Kawana
Men’s 50s/55s: Gold Coast
Men’s 60s: Gold Coast
Referees of the Championship:
Male: Campbell Muir
Female: Zoe Genrich
Senior Male: Brett Freshwater
Senior Female: Shobna Moore
