Mudgee, Regional New South Wales to Host 2026 Asia Pacific Opens Touch Cup

Touch Football Australia (TFA), in conjunction with the Federation of International Touch (FIT), has today announced that the 2026 Asia Pacific Opens Touch Cup (APOTC) will be hosted at Glen Willow Regional Sports Complex in Mudgee, following extensive consultation with event stakeholders.

Originally scheduled for Redcliffe in Queensland, the international Touch Football event will now be staged in Mudgee in regional New South Wales, retaining its dates of Thursday, 23 April to Sunday, 26 April 2026. This decision ensures the event can take place under optimal conditions for participants.

Glen Willow Regional Sports Complex is no stranger to Touch Football, having recently hosted NSW Touch Association’s Country Championships in October 2025. Equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, a 10,000-capacity stadium with an undercover grandstand, and multiple elite-standard fields, Mudgee was ultimately selected – following a review of multiple venues – to host the 2026 APOTC, featuring its Mixed, Women’s, and Men’s divisions in a pivotal event on the Touch Football calendar.

The precinct is further complemented by the newly completed $16 million Mudgee Team Training Village, delivered by Mid-Western Regional Council through the support of the NSW and Australian Governments. These high-quality facilities have already attracted major NRL events, including the annual Charity Shield between the St George Illawarra Dragons and South Sydney Rabbitohs, as well as a multi-year agreement with the Penrith Panthers, underscoring the region’s commitment to country sport.

Beyond its on-field credentials, Mudgee offers visiting participants a memorable destination experience in the Central West of New South Wales. Just a three-and-a-half-hour drive from Sydney, the town is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, acclaimed wine region, boutique breweries and premium hospitality, making it an attractive destination for all domestic and international participants and supporters alike.

FIT Chair, Peter Topp said:

“We’re delighted to take the Asia Pacific Opens Touch Cup to Mudgee, a region with so much passion for sport that will serve as a fantastic backdrop for the best teams from across the Asia Pacific.

“We would like to thank TFA and Mid-Western Regional Council for their support in making this happen.”

TFA Chief Executive Officer, Marcus Ashcroft said:

“TFA is excited to partner with FIT and Mid-Western Regional Council as we showcase elite Touch Football in regional New South Wales.

“Glen Willow Regional Sports Complex provides world-class facilities that will provide an exceptional experience for our Opens athletes, while Mudgee’s renowned hospitality makes it the perfect destination for both participants and supporters.”

Mid-Western Regional Council Mayor, Des Kennedy said:

“We are thrilled to welcome an expected 500 players and officials from fifteen countries across the Asia Pacific to our world-class facility right here in Mudgee.

“The venue last hosted an international competition with the Trans-Tasman Series in 2012 and 2014.

“With multiple high-quality fields in one central precinct, modern amenities, and room for efficient event operations, Glen Willow Regional Sports Complex allows big draws and tight schedules to run smoothly.

“Combined with excellent access, nearby accommodation, and a community experienced in hosting major events, it offers an outstanding experience for players, officials, and spectators alike.”

The 2026 Asia Pacific Opens Touch Cup will be held at Glen Willow Regional Sports Complex in Mudgee, New South Wales, from Thursday, 23 April to Sunday, 26 April 2026.

The Asia Pacific Opens Touch Cup is proudly supported by Mid-Western Regional Council.