Country Carnival provides regional associations with the chance to compete closer to home, without the additional commitments that come with attending a State Age competition. The event caters for multiple divisions from 12 to 18 years, with both girls and mixed teams taking to the court.
“Mackay Netball Association is excited to be hosting the 2026 Country Carnival,” Mackay Netball Association Secretary Jennifer Moohin said.
“This event provides a wonderful opportunity to showcase netball in our region while also supporting the development of regional teams as they compete against each other.
“We look forward to welcoming players, officials, and supporters from across north Queensland to Mackay and celebrating our sport with the wider community.”
The 2025 Carnival attracted 62 teams - 15 more than the previous year - with 620 players competing across 367 matches. Netball Queensland is anticipating the event will grow again in 2026, with 70 teams expected and daily attendances projected to exceed 2400.
Netball Queensland Acting Chief Executive Glenn Dennis said Mackay’s hosting was an exciting opportunity to showcase the strength of regional netball.
“Country Carnival continues to go from strength to strength, creating opportunities for regional players, coaches and umpires to be part of a high-quality competition in their own region,” Dennis said.
The 2026 event will be delivered in partnership with Mackay Regional Council.
Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson said hosting the Country Carnival was a big coup for the Mackay region.
“Council is proud to support this event because it is an investment in local skills development and has a fantastic economic benefit to the region,” Mayor Williamson said.
“We welcome the participants and spectators and trust you will have a wonderful time in our community,” he said.
