Sport
6 December, 2025
Plans start for 2027 Masters
Success of 2025 games leads to council getting ready for event two years away
PLANNING for the 2027 Great Barrier Reef Masters Games is already underway after analysis reveals the success of this year’s event.
According to a Cairns Regional Council report:
The games had $3.65 million in economic impact and 13,724 visitor nights generated in 2025
A further $157,000 injected into 22 local sporting clubs, plus $70,000 raised in club revenue
Attracted 2445 participants from across Australia and eight countries, with 52% first-time attendees.
The report said visitors came from near and far, including throughout Australia as well as New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Singapore, Japan, India, Brazil and the United Kingdom.
Across four days, more than 4182 people attended or participated, generating 13,724 visitor nights and delivering $3.65m in direct economic impact to the Cairns region.
Cairns Mayor Amy Eden said the results demonstrated the significant value the games brought to the region’s economy, sporting sector and community.
“The Great Barrier Reef Masters Games continue to prove their worth as a destination event that drives visitation, supports local businesses, and showcases our world-class sporting facilities,” she said.
“With the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games on the horizon, events like this help strengthen our sporting foundations, inspire participation, and position Cairns to fully harness the benefits of the green and gold runway.”
A key feature of the GBRMG model is its direct support for grassroots sport. In 2025:
$157,000 was injected into 22 local sporting clubs and associations
Clubs generated an additional $70,000 from canteens, bars, and fundraising activities
The event operated with a net direct cost to council of just $28,000, under budget by more than $11,000.
The games showcased 22 sports across Cairns, Mareeba and the Atherton Tablelands.
High-growth sports included swimming, athletics and golf, while new additions, such as pickleball and open water swimming, reached full capacity.
More than half of all participants (52%) were first-timers, reflecting the event’s expanding reach and appeal.
Council has confirmed that planning is now underway for the 2027 event from 23-27 June 2027.
Cr Eden said the strong results of the 2025 event had set the stage for an even bigger games in 2027.
“With growing interest from athletes across Australia and overseas, the 2027 games will build on the momentum of this year’s event,” she said.
