International rugby will take centre stage in Coffs Harbour this weekend, with the Coffs Coast Festival of Rugby building to a double-header at C.ex Coffs International Stadium on Saturday night.
The headline match will see a Japanese Under 23 side, coached by former Wallabies mentor Eddie Jones, take on an Australian Under 20 team under lights from 7pm.
The main game will be preceded by a clash between the Australian Stockman and Fiji Under 20s from 5pm, rounding out a day of international competition.
City of Coffs Harbour Mayor Nikki Williams said the event was part of a growing partnership aimed at bringing high-level sport to the region.
“This is the second year of a three-year partnership between the City of Coffs Harbour and NSW Rugby,” she said.
“It was great to have Eddie and all the big names here in 2025, and this year the format includes top class matches in Grafton and Kempsey before the big show rolls into Coffs.”
The festival has been staged across multiple locations in recent days, with matches already held in Grafton and further games scheduled in Kempsey before the event reaches Coffs Harbour.
Earlier fixtures saw the Australian Stockman record a 50-7 win over the Grafton Redmen, while Japan edged out Fiji 48-39 in a high-scoring contest.
Beyond the on-field action, the festival includes a range of community and corporate events designed to engage rugby fans and support grassroots participation.
A corporate golf day is being held at Bonville Golf Resort on Thursday, followed by a fundraising luncheon at C.ex Club Coffs Harbour on Friday featuring high-profile rugby figures including Eddie Jones, Morgan Turinui, Glen Ella and Chris Whitaker.
City Events, Sport and Cultural Services Group Leader Sharon McDougall said the festival aimed to connect all levels of the sport.
“The festival helps to build awareness of the Rugby For Good program which strives to unite communities and inspire individuals,” she said.
“As a comprehensive celebration of rugby at all levels, tickets to the stadium on Saturday are affordable and start at just $5 for a child or concession for general admission.”
The event is expected to draw strong crowds, with organisers highlighting the opportunity to see emerging international talent alongside established names in the sport.
Saturday’s matches will be followed by a post-match function with live music at the Toormina Hotel from 10pm.
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