Local talent, former Wallabies coach and international players visit the MNC this week for a world-class rugby festival

For a gold coin donation, you can watch Fiji and Japan take on Australia.

Author

Ellie Chamberlain
April 08, 2026

The next generation of Australian, Japanese and Fijian rugby stars are in Kempsey ahead of the Coffs Coast Festival of Rugby (April 9-12). 

What’s happening: This afternoon (Wednesday April 8) two warm up exhibition games will be played on Verges Street Oval in Kempsey, and you can watch live for a gold coin donation.

  • Japan U23s vs Australian Stockman at 3pm

  • Fiji U20s vs Australia U20s at 5pm

The main fixtures will be played under lights on Saturday (April 11) at the C.ex Coffs International Stadium in Coffs Harbour:

  • Fiji U20s vs Australian Stockman at 5pm

  • Japan U23s vs Australia U20s at 7pm

  • Tickets available via TicketTek

Founded in Longreach, Queensland in 2013, Australian Stockman Rugby describes itself as an “an invitational representative side providing athletic and personal development opportunities for grassroots rugby union players from regional Australia”.

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Big names: Former Wallabies coach and current Japanese head coach, Eddie Jones, will be on the sideline, along with former Aussie Rules player and Fiji coach Mick Byrne.

But wait, there’s more: There’s also a Rugby Legends Lunch on Friday (April 10) at the C.ex Coffs Club in Coffs Harbour and a post match celebration with live music at the Toormina Hotel on Saturday night.

Organisers say the event will draw thousands of players, volunteers and spectators. As part of the program there are competitions for junior, women and golden oldie players.

ℹ️ More information here.

Thumbnail: NSW Rugby Union