Newcastle today launched its role as co-host of the 2027 Australian Masters Games, bringing Council representatives, Games organisers and local sporting leaders together as preparations begin across the region.
The launch featured four sports Newcastle will host in 2027: softball, tennis, pickleball and basketball. Each is expected to draw competitors from across Australia.
Newcastle will share hosting duties with the Central Coast from 13–20 November 2027, with thousands of participants, supporters and volunteers expected to visit the two regions.
The event will mark the 40th anniversary of the biennial Australian Masters Games and its return to New South Wales for the first time in more than 25 years.
City of Newcastle Lord Mayor Gavin Morris said the launch marked an important milestone for Newcastle and the wider Hunter region.
Newcastle Lord Mayor Gavin Morris said the launch marked an important milestone for Newcastle and the wider Hunter region.
“In just over 12 months, thousands of people from every corner of the country are coming to Newcastle for the Australian Masters Games and I couldn’t be happier,” Cr Morris said.
“They’ll be competing at some of the most unique sporting facilities in regional Australia. Not to mention playing beach volleyball at Nobbys; not a stadium in a suburb somewhere, but at stunning Nobbys Beach.
“That’s the thing about this city. You compete in the morning, swim at lunchtime, and eat somewhere brilliant that night, all within a couple of kilometres.
“A lot of these athletes, their coaches and their families will be seeing Newcastle for the first time. They’ll arrive with an idea of what this place is, and they’ll leave with a very different one.
“Hosting the Games will continue to strengthen our reputation as a place where people can compete, stay, explore and experience a unique coastal lifestyle, while delivering real economic benefits for our local businesses.
“I’m ecstatic we’re co-hosting with Laurie McKinna and our Central Coast friends. It shows genuine unity between our two regions.”
Confederation of Australian Sport Chief Executive Officer Rob Bradley said Newcastle’s venues and local sporting organisations would play an important role in the anniversary Games.
“The Australian Masters Games gives people the chance to keep competing and share the experience with teammates and friends from across the country,” Mr Bradley said.
“Newcastle has the infrastructure and local knowledge needed to provide an excellent week of sport, while giving visitors plenty to experience away from competition.
“We want people throughout Newcastle and the Hunter to take part, volunteer, attend events and help welcome visitors in November 2027.”
NDSA Softball representative Christine Halpin said the Games would give the region’s softball community an opportunity to welcome players from around Australia.
“Softball has a proud history in Newcastle, supported by generations of players, officials and volunteers who understand what makes the sport special,” Ms Halpin said.
“The Masters Games brings people back onto the diamond to compete, renew friendships and enjoy representing their club or team.
“Our members are looking forward to helping deliver a well-run tournament and showing visiting teams the warm welcome for which Newcastle softball is known.”
New South Wales Pickleball President Garry Sheffield said the sport’s inclusion in the Australian Masters Games program reflected its growing popularity and broad appeal.
“Pickleball is one of Australia’s fastest-growing sports over the last three years, and we’re excited to showcase the energy, skill and strong sense of community that make it so popular.
“The 2025 Australian Masters Games saw a record number of players from across the country come together to compete, connect, and enjoy everything the sport has to offer.
“We look forward to welcoming even more participants to Newcastle for a fantastic week of pickleball.”
Newcastle Basketball representative Sara Jiear said the region was well equipped to host the 2027 basketball program.
“Newcastle has a proud basketball history and a team of people with the experience and commitment to host an event of this size,” Mrs Jiear said.
“Our priority will be getting the essentials right; clear information, sensible scheduling, prepared venues, and games that run on time.
“We want every team to arrive knowing what to expect and leave feeling they took part in a professionally managed national event.”
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.
