SITZLER FIRST NATIONS NETBALL CARNIVAL 2026
The Sitzler First Nations Netball Carnival will return to Territory Netball Stadium on Larrakia Country from Friday 22 to Sunday 24 May 2026, bringing together communities from across the Northern Territory and beyond for a weekend of connection, culture and netball.
Since its inception in 2017, the Carnival has grown into one of the most meaningful events on the Territory netball calendar. Each year, teams travel from across the region — including remote communities, Central Australia and Katherine — as well as interstate, to be part of an experience that extends well beyond the court.
At its heart, the Carnival is about creating a space where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women, girls, boys and men can come together through sport. It is a place where players represent their communities with pride, where friendships are formed, and where the strength of connection through netball is on full display.
While the matches are an important part of the weekend, the impact of the Carnival reaches much further. It provides opportunities for participants at every level of the game, supporting the development of players, coaches and umpires in an environment that is welcoming, supportive and community-driven. For many, it is also a chance to experience pathways within netball that may not otherwise be accessible.
The Carnival continues to grow each year, with more than 20 teams and over 200 participants expected to take part in 2026. Divisions will cater for a wide range of ages and experiences, including 11&U, 13&U, 15&U, 17&U, Mixed and Open competitions. Teams may include up to two non-Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander players, and mixed divisions provide opportunities for male participation under Carnival rules.
A key strength of the event is the way it brings together sport and wellbeing. Health organisations are invited to attend and engage directly with participants, offering access to information, resources and support services in a culturally safe and accessible environment. The knowledge shared throughout the weekend often extends far beyond the Carnival itself, reaching back into families and communities across the Territory.
Ultimately, the success of the Sitzler First Nations Netball Carnival is not measured by results alone, but by the experience it creates. It is about ensuring every participant feels welcomed, valued and part of something bigger — an event that celebrates identity, strengthens community and continues to grow the game of netball across the Northern Territory.
Team nominations for the 2026 Carnival open on Thursday, 23 April and close at 11:59pm on Friday, 15 May, with the draw to be released on Wednesday, 20 May. The nomination fee is $330 per team, with all umpiring coordinated by Netball NT.
Those interested in being involved as an umpire are encouraged to get in touch with Netball NT.
Netball NT proudly acknowledges the support of Sitzler, Confident Girls Foundation, Gilbert and the Northern Territory Government in delivering the 2026 Sitzler First Nations Netball Carnival.