Airlie Beach came alive over the weekend as more than 700 young rugby players and several thousand spectators descended on the Whitsunday Sportspark for the 2025 Viking Cup 10s — a record-breaking celebration of junior rugby union.
Now recognised as North Queensland’s largest junior rugby carnival, this year’s event featured 51 teams across seven divisions, making it the biggest two days in the history of the Whitsunday Sportspark. Families travelled from across Queensland to take part, with teams representing Gold Coast, Caloundra, Maroochydore, Rockhampton, Townsville, Moranbah, and beyond.
The Viking Cup 10s, hosted by the Whitsunday Junior Rugby Union Club, showcased not only exceptional rugby talent but also the spirit of sportsmanship, inclusion, and community connection that defines grassroots sport.
Club President Tim Oberg said the atmosphere across the two days was electric.
“To see so many young players smiling, competing, and forming friendships through rugby is what the Viking Cup is all about,” Oberg said. “This event has grown into something truly special for our region, and it’s only going to get bigger.”
The carnival featured strong performances across all age groups, with several thrilling grand finals. Our local Whitsunday Raiders claimed victories in both the Mixed Under 8s and Mixed Under 10s divisions, while Mackay Blue triumphed 30–10 over Mackay Red in the Under 12s. In the girls’ competitions, Western Suburbs took out the Under 13s, and Shockwave Rugby Academy defeated the Bowen Mudcrabs 32–7 in the Under 15s. The boys’ titles went to Caloundra, who beat Maroochydore Swans 31–12 in the Under 14s, and Colts, who edged out the Whitsunday Raiders 5–0 in a tense Under 16s final.
Oberg also paid tribute to the volunteers and officials who made the event possible.
“A special mention must go to our referees — without referees, there’s no rugby. Their commitment, along with the tireless work of our volunteers, ensured a safe and enjoyable experience for all involved. I’d also like to give a nod of appreciation to our sponsors, BK Constructions, Reef Gateway Hotel and Silver Fern Sports.”
Plans are already underway for the 2026 Viking Cup 10s, which will expand into a four-day festival of rugby with camping options and a format designed to accommodate even more teams and families.
“It’s exciting to see how far we’ve come,” Oberg said. “The future of junior rugby in the Whitsundays is bright.”
Photos supplied.
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