NATIONAL Indigenous Television – NITV – will broadcast the 2025 Koori Knockout over the October long weekend, with full day match coverage of the finals live and direct from the Riverside Sporting Complex in Tamworth.

The telecast, also available on SBS On Demand, will be screened on Sunday, October 5 and Monday October, 6  from 9am.

With supporting multi-platform coverage across the entire weekend, this will be NITV’s 16th broadcast of the iconic rugby league tournament, a staple in the calendar of many First Nations peoples, with the event now in its 53rd year.

This year also sees the biggest competition in the event’s history with a record 170 teams lining up to compete in 2025.

NSW Aboriginal Rugby League Knockout is one of the biggest Indigenous gatherings in Australia and has grown to be one of the largest Indigenous sporting events in the world.

Hosted by reigning champions and eight-time winners Walgett Aboriginal Connection – equalled only by the eight-time winning Redfern All Blacks – the tournament promises intense competition across men’s, women’s and junior divisions, as well as a vibrant cultural program that showcases the passion within communities and honours First Nations peoples in Australia.

The Knockout has traditionally attracted NRL and NSW Cup scouts after developing a huge reputation for highlighting the immense talent and resilience of Indigenous rugby league players.

Big name stars including Latrell Mitchell, Cody Walker, Josh Addo-Carr and Greg Inglis were all knockout players before playing NRL.

NITV’s commentary team this year includes journalists Dan Conifer, a Ngemba-Muruwari man, and Bidjigal man Brad Cooke.

Dean Widders (left), host of NITV’s Over The Black Dot and 2023 senior Australian of the Year. Tom Calma. Widders will be on the NITV commentary team at the 2025 Koori Knockout at Tamworth.

They’ll be joined by NITV’s Over the Black Dot host and proud Anaiwan man Dean Widders.

“The Koori Knockout 2025 is already locked in as the biggest knockout in history with the most team nominations ever,” Widders said.

“With so many amazing teams, and some of rugby league’s greatest players representing their families and communities, it is an event not to be missed.

“I’m so proud of our team at NITV who do an amazing job of bringing it all to life on the television screen. I can’t wait,” he said.

Also in the commentary box will be dual International Timana Tahu, Bo de la Cruz, a proud descendant of the Gudjula and Erubian people and multi award-winning touch, rugby union and rugby league player, as well as former NRL player and Dunghutti man, Beau Champion.

NITV’s comprehensive live coverage of the finals will deliver all the excitement of the games, showcasing the skill, passion, and spirit that define the Koori Knockout.

As the event continues to grow, this broadcast ensures that audiences nationwide stay connected to one of Australia’s most significant Indigenous sporting and cultural festivals.

Not just showcasing world-class rugby league action, it also highlights culture, community, and pride, fostering understanding and respect for Indigenous history and traditions.

NITV’s Head of Indigenous Commissions and Production, Dena Curtis, said NITV is proud to bring the Koori Knockout to audiences across the country for another year.

“This iconic tournament is more than a game – it’s a celebration of culture, community, and the incredible talent within First Nations rugby league,” she said.

“For 53 years, the Knockout has united generations and showcased New South Wales rugby league talent.

“This year marks our 16th broadcast as the biggest competition in its history reaches new heights with a record 170 teams playing in this year’s event.

“We’re excited to share every moment of the finals’ action and the stories that make this event one of the most significant Indigenous sporting and cultural gatherings in Australia.”

The Koori Knockout will be hosted at Riverside Sporting Complex, live from Tamworth in Kamilaroi Country.

The event is also known as the 2025 Aboriginal Affairs NSW Aboriginal Rugby League Knockout.

In supporting coverage, Over the Black Dot’s episode on Tuesday, September 30 at 9.30pm on NITV will preview the knockout.

“The episode will detail the teams and big-name players in the lead-up to the weekend and will be available to stream for free on SBS On Demand after broadcast.

NITV News’ Nula will broadcast live from the Koori Knockout on Friday, October 3 at 3pm on SBS and 5.30pm on NITV.

Watch Trailer here: Koori Knockout Preview

Source: NITV Media