The QLD State Cup (QSC), one of the state’s premier touch football events, will be hosted on the Sunshine Coast in 2026, marking an exciting new chapter for the iconic tournament.
Set to take place at Sunshine Coast Stadium and Kawana Sports Precinct from Friday 27 to Sunday 29 November 2026, the event will bring teams, officials and supporters from across Queensland, interstate and international to the region for three days of high-level competition and community celebration.
The move to the Sunshine Coast represents a significant milestone for the QSC, long recognised as a showcase of elite talent, strong rivalries and the vibrant Touch Football community across the state.
QSC has grown 35% since returning in 2019 to more than 130 teams, highlighting the strength of competition and Queensland Touch Football’s excitement about the event’s continued evolution and its future impact on the Sunshine Coast region as a host destination.
Queensland Touch Football (QTF) is thrilled to partner with Sunshine Coast Council to deliver the tournament in a destination renowned for its world-class sporting facilities, natural beauty and welcoming atmosphere.
“We are incredibly excited to bring the QLD State Cup to the Sunshine Coast,” said QTF CEO Greg Denny.
“The Sunshine Coast Stadium provides an outstanding venue for both athletes and spectators, and the region offers a fantastic experience for teams travelling from across Queensland. The continued growth of the QLD State Cup is a reflection of the strength of our sport and our affiliate network, and the Sunshine Coast is the ideal setting for the next chapter of this event.”
Denny added that the Sunshine Coast is one of the fastest-growing regions for touch football in Queensland, with Kawana Touch Association having grown a staggering 90% in the past 4 years making it a natural home for the marque event.
The QSC is expected to deliver strong visitation and economic benefits to the region, with thousands of players, officials and supporters staying and exploring the Sunshine Coast throughout the tournament weekend.
Sunshine Coast Resilient Economy Portfolio Councillor Terry Landsberg said “We’re proud to welcome the Queensland State Cup to the Sunshine Coast for the first time, bringing teams, officials and supporters from right across Queensland to our region.
“Through Council’s Major Events Sponsorship Program, we’re backing events like this that deliver meaningful economic benefits, showcase our facilities and reinforce the Sunshine Coast as a leading destination for major sporting events.
“This tournament isn’t just about elite competition – it’s about community, connection and giving visitors the chance to experience everything our region has to offer.”
Further event details, including team nominations, scheduling and event activities, will be announced in the lead-up to the tournament.
As Queensland Touch Football expands its presence on the Sunshine Coast, the region will also host additional marquee events. The QTF Conference will be held during the day on Monday 30 November, bringing together affiliates, administrators and sport enthusiasts from across the state, followed by the QTF Awards Night that evening. More information is available at qldtouch.com.au.
