MEDIA RELEASE - Kurrung Sports Carnival returns to Jabiru alongside Mahbilil Festival
West Arnhem Regional Council is excited to announce the return of the Kurrung Sports Carnival to Jabiru on 28–29 August 2026, once again running alongside the much-loved Mahbilil Festival.
The combined event marks the first time since 2019 that the two major celebrations will be held together, creating an action-packed weekend showcasing the very best of sport, culture, music and community in Kakadu and West Arnhem Land.
Proudly hosted by West Arnhem Regional Council, the Kurrung Sports Carnival is one of the largest Indigenous sporting events in the Top End and has become one of the region's premier annual sporting competitions.
Held each dry season, the carnival has a long and proud history of bringing together hundreds of athletes from remote Arnhem Land communities. It celebrates the outstanding talent of men's and women’s AFL and basketball teams, while providing a healthy, safe and inclusive environment for grassroots sport.
West Arnhem Regional Council Mayor James Woods said the return of the two events side by side would create an unforgettable experience for competitors, visitors and the local community.
"Our region is special for many reasons – however the most celebrated has to be the incredible culture, the arts, music and of course sport," Mayor Woods said.
"The Kurrung Sports Carnival and Mahbilil Festival are two iconic events that showcase everything that makes Kakadu and West Arnhem such a unique and vibrant place. Bringing them together again will create an incredible atmosphere for everyone involved,” he said.
"We look forward to welcoming teams, families and visitors from across the region and beyond to Jabiru in August for what promises to be our biggest weekend of the year."
Caron Farrell of the Mahibilil Festival said, “The Mirarr community is proud to announce the return of the Mahbilil Festival, taking place 28–29 August 2026 in Jabiru, Northern Territory, in the heart of Kakadu.”
“Mahbilil Festival is a vibrant celebration of Mirarr culture, bringing together music, traditional dance, bush foods, art, sport, workshops, and community activities. Held alongside the Kurrung Sports Festival, the event reflects the spirit of the Kurrung season, when cool afternoon breezes bring people together to celebrate culture, country, and community,” Caron said.
“As Jabiru transitions from a mining town to a tourism and cultural destination, the Mahbilil Festival and Kurrung Sports Carnival play a vital role in promoting the region, supporting local businesses, and strengthening cultural connection. The festival also provides an opportunity for visitors to experience authentic First Nations culture in one of Australia’s most iconic landscapes.”
Visitors can expect two days of exciting sporting action alongside the Mahbilil Festival's vibrant program of live music, cultural performances, local art, food and family-friendly activities, making it a must-visit event on the Top End's dry season calendar.
For event information:
Kurrung Sports Carnival - https://westarnhem.nt.gov.au or follow the Facebook Page.
Mahbilil Festival - https://mahbilil.com.au or follow the Facebook Page.
ENDS