First Nations Dreamtime Knockout

16 Oct 2026 - 18 Oct 2026

The First Nations Dreamtime Knockout is a national Indigenous rugby league carnival held annually in Townsville, Queensland. It brings together 32 of the best First Nations teams from across Australia to compete in a high level, knockout style tournament that celebrates culture, community and elite sport.

The event will be held at the Townsville Sports Precinct. Teams travel from all corners of the country, from remote communities in the Torres Strait to major cities in the south. This creates a unique environment where players, families and supporters come together to connect through rugby league while representing their mobs and regions with pride.

At its core, the Dreamtime Knockout is about more than just football. It provides a platform for First Nations athletes to showcase their talent on a national stage, many of whom have the ability to progress into higher levels of the game. The carnival also promotes positive role models, healthy lifestyles and strong community values. It plays an important role in fostering relationships, building identity and contributing to reconciliation through sport.

The competition features a high intensity format that ensures every game matters. With significant prize money on offer, including 100,000 dollars for the winning team and 20,000 dollars for the runners up, the standard of play is extremely competitive.