Queensland Touch Football (QTF) is firmly setting its sights on the Sunshine Coast, confirming the region as the next major hub for the sport with the relocation of its flagship Conference and Awards Night and the hosting of a major state event.
Following confirmation that the Queensland State Cup (QSC) will be hosted on the Sunshine Coast in 2026, Queensland Touch Football has also announced that the QTF Conference and QTF Awards Night will take place on Monday 30 November at Novotel Sunshine Coast Resort, marking a move from their previous home on the Gold Coast.
The move reflects the Sunshine Coast’s emergence as Queensland’s fastest‑growing touch football region, underpinned by strong participation growth, affiliate development and increasing demand for high‑quality events.
The 2026 QTF Conference will be delivered under the theme “Passionately Proud”, bringing together affiliates administrators, volunteers, coaches, referees and officials from across the state to connect, share insights and shape the future direction of the sport.
Queensland Touch Football CEO Greg Denny said the decision to relocate major events was driven by growth, opportunity and long‑term strategic planning.
“The Sunshine Coast has quickly become one of the strongest growth regions for touch football in Queensland,” Denny said. “Hosting the QLD State Cup, Conference and Awards here reflects both the momentum of the region and our confidence in its ability to deliver outstanding experiences for our members.”
QTF also recognised the important role the Festival of Touch has played over the past six years on the Gold Coast, bringing major events together and supporting participation growth across the Touch Football community. Born during the COVID period to connect, inspire and reinvigorate the sport, the festival helped drive continued growth in both events and participation. As we continue to evolve our event strategy, this transition proudly acknowledges the Festival’s legacy, impact and contribution, laying it to rest as we enter our next chapter.
As part of an evolved event strategy, Queensland All Nations will not proceed in its previous format in connection with the Festival of Touch. QTF is working on a wider plan for cultural engagement and will announce plans in due course.
In addition, the South East Queensland Schools Beach Gala Day, previously aligned with the Festival of Touch, will continue as a highly successful participation initiative, transitioning to a standalone model that can be delivered across regions throughout Queensland.
“These decisions are about ensuring our events continue to evolve alongside the sport,” Denny said.
“As we build our presence on the Sunshine Coast, we remain focused on delivering purposeful events, strong engagement and long‑term value for our affiliates and participants.”
Further details regarding the QTF Conference and Awards Night will be released in the lead‑up to November. More information is available at qldtouch.com.au.
