What’s happening?
Redlands Coast will host Queensland Touch Football’s Junior State Cup from 9 to 11 July 2026, bringing young touch football talent from across the state into the region.
The tournament is proudly sponsored by Redland City Council and is one of Queensland’s premier junior sporting events. Teams will travel from across the state, including as far north as Townsville, to compete in a major event on the junior representative pathway.
The 2026 event also marks the 30th Anniversary edition of the Junior State Cup, giving this year’s tournament extra meaning for players, families, officials and supporters.
Why it matters?
The Junior State Cup is a key event for emerging touch football players across Queensland. It gives young athletes the chance to test their skills, build confidence and compete in a strong team environment.
Queensland Touch Football CEO Greg Denny said the event remains a major part of the sport’s calendar.
“The Junior State Cup is a true celebration of Touch Football, bringing together 28 Touch Associations across the state. The event provides a safe and enjoyable environment for young athletes to develop and showcase their skills and create unforgettable experiences alongside their teammates, families and friends,” Mr Denny said.
Local Impact
The tournament is expected to bring a major visitor boost to Redlands Coast, with players, coaches, referees, families and supporters arriving for three days of competition.
Local accommodation providers, hospitality venues and tourism operators are expected to benefit as visitors spend time in the region before, during and after the games.
Redland City Council Acting Mayor Julie Talty said the event was a strong chance for Redlands Coast to welcome visitors and support junior sport.
“Council is proud to support events that provide an injection into the local economy and support kids from Redlands Coast and beyond to participate in the sport they love,” she said.
“Hosting the tournament will allow more people from regions such as Gladstone, Ipswich, Cairns and Rockhampton to explore the many fantastic attractions and experiences we have to offer in our naturally wonderful city.”
By The Numbers
- The tournament will bring 271 teams to Redlands Coast, making it one of the state’s major junior touch football events.
- More than 4,400 players, coaches and referees will take part, showing the scale of the junior pathway.
- Around 16,000 to 17,000 attendees are expected each day, supporting local visitor activity across the region.
Zoom In
Across the three days, Queensland’s best emerging touch football players will take the field in a tournament built around competition, development and team culture.
The event will bring together associations from across Queensland, creating a strong festival feel around the sport. For many players, it will also be an important step in their representative football experience.
Livestreaming will run throughout the tournament through Queensland Touch Football’s YouTube channel and BarTV Sports, giving family, friends and supporters across Queensland and beyond a way to follow the action.
Zoom Out
The Junior State Cup shows how junior sport can deliver value beyond the field. It brings families and communities together while also creating real activity for local businesses.
Mr Denny said the wider community benefit was an important part of the event.
“Beyond the competition, the Junior State Cup delivers a significant boost to the local community, welcoming thousands of visitors to the Redlands region and creating a vibrant festival atmosphere. Events like this highlight the power of sport to bring people together, support local businesses and leave a lasting positive impact on the communities that host them.”
What To Look For Next?
Players, families and supporters will be able to follow fixtures, live coverage, results and event updates HERE
A strong turnout across the three days would further support Redlands Coast as a host region for major junior sport, while giving young players a memorable tournament experience.
