Like a mini-Olympics, the NQ Games is the largest regularly run multi-sport event in regional Australia, promoting grassroots participation and regional competitiveness to foster sporting growth.

The 2026 NQ Games is hosted in Mackay, with selected events spilling into both the Isaac and Whitsunday Regional Council areas. With an estimated 40+ sports, venues all across the region will be used leading up to, and during the NQ Games.

The NQ Games will have a 'Host' partner - more info coming soon....

The NQ Games are held biennially, meaning every two years.

The very first NQ Games was held in Townsville from April 19th, to April 23rd 1984.

Officially named the SGIO North Queensland Games, there was 42 sports with over 7000 sportspeople.

15,000 attended the first opening ceremony at Townsville Sports Reserve - check out our 'history' tab for more insights!

May 1st - May 4th, 2026 in the Mackay, Isaac and Whisunday Regions. Select events may run a weekend or two early or late depending on availability.

Since it's inception in 1984, the NQ Games has been run by the North Queensland Sports Foundation (NQSF).

Established in 1983, NQSF promotes sport and active recreation across 25+ Local Government Areas.

The NQSF also hosts the annual NQ Sportstar Awards, are the custodians of the North Queensland Sports Hall of Fame, and promote and fund free community events through it's Move It NQ brand and phone app.

From October/November 2025, you'll be able to register for events via nqgames.com.au via our partners PlayHQ.

PlayHQ provide registration accounts for a number of sports including AFL & Cricket Australia. You'll be prompted to create a free account when you register (unless you have one already). For the next NQ Games, you'll have an account handy.

Payment is accepted through normal credit/debit cards and other payment suppliers via the portal.

To stay up to date until then, subscribe to our newsletter.

Contact Us!

We have relationships with alot of sports clubs, but not every single one (not yet at least).

If you're a part of a sports club that wants to host an event in the NQ Games, or want to submit a sport or recreation activity for our consideration, please let us know!

It's a little too early for us to share that just yet.

At a minimum, you'll be able to pick up your competitor pack the week prior and during the NQ Games at our host location

Yes!

After merchandise is revealed, you'll be able to purchase directly during your NQ Games registration (shop at checkout), online after registration via our store, or select items will be available on the ground in Mackay and the Whitsundays during the NQ Games window.