Dear Championships Participants,
Following our scheduled meeting this morning with C.ex Coffs International Stadium and City of Coffs Harbour staff, we want to provide you with an important update on the current field conditions and the status of The Championships event set to run from 30th May to 1st June.
Summary
The event is still scheduled to go ahead, with contingency planning underway based on best and worst-case scenarios for field availability. Here is the current draft draw, however, please note that this is subject to change at any time before and during the event.
Additional Context
Coffs Harbour has received over 400mm of rain in recent days, with a total of 1.8 metres of rainfall at the stadium since the beginning of the year. Due to this extraordinary volume, the fields have been completely closed for the last eight weeks, and as recently as yesterday, were underwater. Significant silt build-up, from nearby highway construction, has further complicated recovery efforts.
Based on all the current information we have, 8 of the 20 fields are expected to be playable by Friday 30th May. However, we are working closely with the stadium to access an additional 3 fields on site. This will include a combination of stadium fields, synthetic surfaces, and reconfigured spaces. We are also exploring nearby local fields as additional contingency options, though this will be a last resort.
The Stadium team has been working tirelessly to drain, aerate, and restore the fields - and their commitment has been instrumental in allowing us to plan for a viable tournament. They will continue this process and with the forecasted dry weather over the weekend and through early next week, there is the possibility of bringing additional fields back to life in time for the event, though this is not guaranteed.
Key Updates for Participants
- Event Set Up: Field and stadium access will only be available from Thursday onwards, please have patience with the TFA Event team if responses are delayed on this day as it will be all hands on deck in a reduced set-up window.
- Restricted Grass Access:
- Carts/rolling trolleys must remain on footpaths due to muddy and unsafe conditions. Exceptions will only be made for medical emergencies.
- All participants, especially spectators, will be asked to minimise their impact on the fields by using the footpaths as much as possible.
- No grass training fields will be available at the stadium or in the surrounding areas before and during the event. Teams should plan accordingly and are encouraged to make use of the beaches or alternate surfaces.
- Pop-up Tents & Safety: Pop-up tents by grass fields may be unsafe due to slopes and slippery surfaces. Please liaise with the Event Staff before setting up.
- Packing Recommendation: Given the wet and muddy conditions, we recommend that participants pack accordingly: gumboots, extra socks, a change of clothes, towels, and any other gear that might help you stay dry and comfortable throughout the event. Conditions underfoot will be muddy in many areas, and being well-prepared will make a big difference to your experience.
We remain strongly committed to delivering this event and are focused on prioritising the tournament’s safe and successful execution. While we continue to work through the impacts of the weather, we’re encouraged by the forecast which is dry from Saturday 24th May onwards.
For those driving to Coffs Harbour, we encourage you to stay informed about road and weather conditions using the following resources:
- NSW Live Traffic Updates: https://www.livetraffic.com/
- Bureau of Meteorology (Weather Forecasts & Warnings): http://www.bom.gov.au/nsw/
TFA will continue to monitor conditions and provide another written update on Monday 26th May, which will include any further developments or adjustments.
In the meantime, thank you for your continued patience and understanding. Your flexibility and cooperation are greatly appreciated as we navigate these challenges.
Warm regards,
Touch Football Australia
