Football Queensland (FQ) is excited to announce that the Kappa Pro Series will head to the Darling Downs in early 2026, with NPL Queensland sides Brisbane Roar B and Gold Coast United going head-to-head at Stanthorpe International Club on Saturday, 7 February 2026.

Supported by the Southern Downs Regional Council and Football Stanthorpe, the event reflects the growing relationship between Football Queensland and the Southern Downs and presents a valuable opportunity to showcase one of Queensland’s premier cup competitions, building on the success of this year’s Kappa Pro Series fixture in Bundaberg.

“We’re thrilled to bring another major Kappa Pro Series clash to regional Queensland, this time in Stanthorpe, as part of our continued effort to connect with local communities, grow the game, and inspire the next generation,” FQ General Manager – SEQ Region Damien Bresic said.

“The clubs and volunteers in the Darling Downs do an incredible job driving the game forward in the region, and events like this are a chance to recognise their work and help to create lasting benefits for our players, coaches, referees and football fans.

“The Southern Downs has a proud and passionate football community, and we’re delighted to be working alongside Mayor Melissa Hamilton, Southern Downs Regional Council and Football Stanthorpe to deliver a fantastic event for the region.”

Mayor Melissa Hamilton: “We have an incredibly strong football community in the Southern Downs, and I’m sure our local players will jump at the chance to attend a clinic and engage with the players and coaches from Brisbane Roar B and Gold Coast United. For the wider community the chance to see a premier clash live at a local sporting ground is not to be missed.

“Events like the Football Queensland Kappa Pro Series inspire our young players and attract visitors from neighbouring regions, energising our economy, which is why Council is proud to join with Football Queensland and Football Stanthorpe in delivering this event.”

Councillor Russell Wantling: “Sport is one of the real strengths of the Southern Downs, and hosting a Kappa Pro Series match in Stanthorpe is a great opportunity for our region. The Southern Downs first-class sporting fields are a credit to our local clubs and volunteers, and showcasing them on a state stage reaffirms that regional communities can host high quality events.

“As Queensland builds towards the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, it’s important that regional communities like ours are part of that journey. Bringing elite football to the Granite Belt highlights the talents, passion and grassroots strength we have here.”

The Stanthorpe event will offer a full day of football activity, including junior clinics, referee development sessions, and coach education workshops, giving the local community the chance to engage directly with players and coaches from both clubs.

Further details on match day activities, community clinics, and ticketing will be announced in early 2026.

This project has been assisted by Grants to Community funding from the Southern Downs Regional Council.