More than 400 players and officials, along with thousands of fans from across NSW and beyond, are expected at the NRLW Magic Round. Photo: Supplied.
Wagga Wagga is preparing to welcome thousands of visitors when the 2026 NRLW Magic Round comes to Geohex Park on 1 and 2 August.
The Magic Round concept originated in the NRL men’s competition in 2019. Rather than having matches spread across the country, all games are played in one city, allowing fans to watch multiple matches in one trip.
This year, Wagga will have its turn to host all 12 NRLW teams playing across six matches over the weekend at the Wagga Wagga Exhibition Centre precinct.
More than 400 players and officials, along with thousands of fans from across NSW and beyond, are expected at the two-day event.
The visitor influx is expected to boost local businesses, with several hospitality venues recently moving to expand their offerings ahead of major events in the city. Among them is The Bidgee Brew, which was recently granted an on-premises liquor licence, allowing it to serve alcohol to patrons alongside food and coffee.
Wagga Leisure & Strategic Recreation manager Marc Geppert said Geohex Park would be busy throughout the weekend.
“Geohex Park will be buzzing on the first weekend of August when it hosts all six NRLW games for the round,” he said.
“With ticket sales ahead of previous years, we are anticipating huge crowds to be at the ground, with the event expected to draw many visitors to Wagga Wagga.”
The NRLW Magic Round is being played in a different regional location in NSW each year between 2025 and 2027 under the NSW Government’s Make the Move campaign.
Mr Geppert said the event would be a chance for regional fans to watch every match in the round in one location.
“This is a great opportunity for people living in regional NSW to come to Wagga Wagga and watch their favourite team in action,” he said.
“It’s your only chance this season to experience every NRLW game of the round in person over one spectacular weekend of footy and fun at Geohex Park.
“Be there to witness Wagga Wagga come alive with non-stop footy action and a line-up stacked with entertainment, activities, and festival fun for the whole family.
“Don’t miss this ultimate celebration of women’s rugby league and experience the festival of Magic.”
Entertainment around the precinct will include a performance by 2026 Australian Idol winner Kesha Nevé on Saturday, a Bluey and Bingo interactive show on Sunday, children’s activities across both days, as well as food vendors, merchandise sales and giveaways.
One-day and two-day passes remain available.
Magic Round matches kick off at 11:35 am on Saturday, 1 August, and Sunday, 2 August, at Geohex Park. Tickets are available through Ticketek.
