Football Queensland (FQ) is pleased to announce the return of the FQ Academy Inter-Conference Carnival, taking place at Mackay Football Park from Tuesday 14 to Friday 17 April 2026 and proudly supported by Mackay Regional Council.

Bringing together FQ’s five Regional Academies from across the Northern and Central Conferences, the Inter-Conference Carnival provides an important development opportunity for regional players, showcasing emerging talent and strengthening the state-wide player pathway.

For the first time, the 2026 edition will expand to a four-day schedule, enabling a greater volume of match play and enhanced talent identification, while supporting ongoing matchday development for players, referees and coaches.

“The Inter-Conference Carnival remains a key foundational element of the regional FQ Academy pathway. For many players, it provides their first experience of inter-regional competition and the opportunity to challenge themselves in a new environment and against new opposition,” FQ Technical Director – Player Development, Tom Laxton said.

“Expanding the Carnival in 2026 to four days reinforces our commitment to delivering more meaningful and competitive opportunities for not only our regional players, but also referees as they continue their development. It also allows our FQ coaches and technical staff more time to closely monitor and track player progression.

“The FQ Academy remains the only pathway in Queensland recognised by Football Australia for state and national team selection, and events like this ensure every talented player has the opportunity to progress into a high-performance representative environment.

“We would like to extend our thanks to Mackay Regional Council for their continued partnership and support in hosting a high-quality event that will benefit our state’s emerging footballers. We look forward to welcoming players, coaches, referees and supporters to Mackay Football Park for four exciting days of football development and future stars on show.”

“Mackay Regional Council is very proud to again support Football Queensland with this key event on their annual calendar, which draws players from across regional areas,” Mayor Williamson said.

“By expanding the carnival to four days, it gives visitors a much better opportunity to explore what our region has to offer – from natural attractions like Eungella, Cape Hillsborough and the Sarina Beaches, to facilities like the Sarina Sugar Shed, Artspace and our beautiful Waterfront,” he said.

“Football is a hugely popular sport with junior athletes and we are thrilled to have so many players and supporters able to enjoy the thrill of a carnival and enjoy this beautiful part of Queensland.”

Find out more about the 2026 FQ Academy Inter-Conference Carnival here