Football Queensland (FQ) is bringing NPL Queensland football back to the Wide Bay region, with a men’s Kappa Pro Series fixture to be hosted at Bundaberg’s Martens Oval for the second consecutive year in partnership with Waves Sports Club.

The fixture will see 2025 Australia Cup Quarter Finalists Brisbane City take on reigning NPL Queensland Premiers and Australian Championship representatives Moreton City Excelsior on Saturday, 31 January, in what promises to be a high-quality contest between two of the state’s top sides, setting the stage for an exciting start to the new season.

The event will also feature Junior Clinics, Coach Education sessions, and Wide Bay preliminary round fixtures in the expanded 2026 Kappa Queensland Cup, giving players, coaches and fans plenty of opportunities to get involved and celebrate the game together.

Football Queensland CEO Robert Cavallucci said the decision to return to Bundaberg was driven not only by the success of last year’s event, but by FQ’s ongoing commitment to connecting directly with football communities right across the state.

“Last year’s event in Bundaberg was a fantastic occasion for our game, not only for the teams on the pitch, but for the entire community who came together to be part of the weekend’s matches, clinics and activities,” Cavallucci said.

“We’re proud to return with such a strong fixture featuring the reigning NPL Queensland Premiers and an Australia Cup Quarter Finalist, which will give local fans the chance to see two of the best teams in the state right here in Bundaberg.

“The Kappa Pro Series plays an important role in connecting our communities with elite-level football, while creating clear pathways for players and coaches through the junior sessions and education opportunities running alongside the fixture.

“The feedback from last year showed just how much the Wide Bay region values these opportunities, and we’re really looking forward to building on that momentum when we return in January.”

FQ General Manager – Central Conference, Jordie Gerbes said the return of the event is a reflection of both the community’s passion for the game and the region’s continued growth.

“Last year’s event was a real celebration of football in the Wide Bay, and it was fantastic to see the community come together and embrace the opportunity to host a Pro Series fixture,” Gerbes said.

“Football continues to thrive across the region, and events like this not only inspire our local players, coaches and volunteers but also strengthen the connection between regional football and the wider Queensland game. We’re proud to partner with Waves Sports Club to deliver another memorable football experience for Bundaberg in 2026.”

Further details, including registration information for the Junior Clinics and Coach Education sessions, will be announced in the coming weeks.