Loxton and Waikerie to host 2028 South Australian Masters Games
The four-day Games are expected to attract over 1,200 participants from across Australia, with sporting associations and clubs given the opportunity to showcase their sports, welcome competitors and be part of a major celebration of participation, fitness and community. The Games have not been held in the Riverland since 2005, making the 2028 event the first time in over two decades that the region will host this major sporting celebration.
The South Australian Masters Games bring together thousands of people of all abilities who share a passion for staying active, competing and enjoying the social side of sport.
For local residents, the Games will provide an exciting opportunity to experience a major sporting festival close to home, with a wide range of sports and activities taking place across Loxton and Waikerie. It will also showcase the strength and diversity of the district’s local sporting clubs and facilities.
The Games are expected to provide a significant boost to the local economy, with participants and visitors staying locally, dining at local businesses and exploring the region during their time in the Riverland. Beyond the four-day event, the exposure provided by hosting visitors from across Australia presents an opportunity to encourage people to return to the region in the future.
For visitors, the Games will offer more than just a sporting experience. It will be an opportunity to discover the Riverland, experience the welcoming nature of its communities and enjoy the region’s unique attractions, food, wine, waterways and outdoor experiences.
Over the next 12+ months, Council will work closely with local sporting clubs and associations to establish the program of events and identify opportunities for local clubs to participate in and benefit from the Games.
In the coming weeks, Council will be in contact with local sporting organisations to arrange an information session, where details about club involvement in the 2028 South Australian Masters Games will be discussed with one or two representatives from each sport.
If your club has not been contacted and would like to be involved, please contact Council via council@lwdc.sa.gov.au or 08 8584 8000.
Comments attributable to Mayor Trevor Norton:
“This is a wonderful opportunity to put Loxton and Waikerie on the national sporting map and showcase everything our district has to offer. The Games will bring people from across Australia into our communities, supporting local businesses, and giving our sporting clubs the chance to showcase their facilities, volunteers and passion for their sports. Most importantly, it is a chance for our community to come together and celebrate sport and the wonderful lifestyle we enjoy here in the Riverland.”
Comments attributable to Leah Cassidy, Chief Executive Officer of Sport SA:
“The South Australian Masters Games are about much more than sport. They're about bringing people together, celebrating active lifestyles and showcasing the unique character of our regions. Loxton and the Riverland provide the perfect setting for the 2028 Games, and we're excited to see the community embrace this opportunity to welcome participants from across South Australia.
"The Masters Games demonstrate that sport is for everyone, at every stage of life. Loxton's successful bid reflects its strong sporting culture and commitment to active communities. We look forward to working with local partners to create an unforgettable Games experience and a lasting legacy for the Riverland."