Newcastle takes out Indigenous Nationals on home soil
The University of Newcastle has won the 2026 Indigenous Nationals for the third consecutive year, continuing its impressive legacy in the competition on home soil.
The three-peat champions competed in a mixed competition across four sports – basketball, netball, touch football and volleyball, claiming first place in the basketball and netball, second in the touch football and eighth in the volleyball.
Held on Awabakal Country to mark its 30th year, the hosting team was also recognised with the Most Valuable Player awards being presented for individual performances across each of the sporting categories.
Australian Rock Band, King Stingray at the University of Newcastle with the Indigenous National – Wollotuka Touch Football.
Proud Kamilaroi women Alkira Johnston, studying Medicine received the Spirit Award for Touch Football.
To close out a week filled with sports, community engagement and cultural experiences, the student-athletes enjoyed a private performance from Australian rock band from Northeast Arnhem Land – King Stingray.
While the 30th Indigenous Nationals marked a special homecoming for the University of Newcastle, the event’s legacy will continue as we pass the boomerang onto James Cook University, Townsville for the 2027 Games.
2026 Indigenous Nationals Rankings
- University of Newcastle
- University of Sydney
- Monash University
