Community Sports & Groups
You will find a wealth of opportunities to connect with the local community through sports and social groups in the Northern Rivers. Known for its active lifestyle and strong sense of community the Northern Rivers has range of activities whether you are a sports enthusiast or looking to engage in social activities.Â
From the thrill of surfing on world-renowned beaches alongside professional surfers to joining local rugby league or soccer teams coached by ex-professional players, the region offers ample opportunities for sports lovers. Additionally, various social community groups cater to diverse interests, such as local theater groups, arts and crafts like macrame and pottery, to land care groups, walking groups.
Community Sports & Fitness
Team sports are a staple of any connected community and the Northern Rivers is abound with options when it comes to sports and outdoor recreation. Many sports take advantage of the wonderful natural backdrop that our region is known for – activities such as canoe, kayak, dragon boating and paddle clubs, surf and board rider clubs, trail running, cycling and mountain biking clubs.
Many sporting clubs tap into our national sporting psyche as weekends are filled with junior and senior competitions in soccer/football, rugby league and union, netball, basketball, baseball and many more.
All around the region people join together for fitness with 24-hour gyms, climbing gyms, strength and conditioning, pilates, yoga, and outdoor fitness groups.
While there are many more, here are some of the sports and fitness activities and clubs you’ll find in the Northern Rivers:
- Little Athletics
- Surf Life Saving Clubs
- Surf/Board Rider Clubs
- Canoe, Kayak, Paddle and Dragon Boat clubs
- Football (Soccer)
- Netball, Basketball
- Rugby League, Rugby Union
Links to Sport/Fitness Clubs and Organisations
| Organisation | Links |
Little Athletics |
Little Athletics - current centres in The Northern Rivers is part of Region 1 (Northern NSW) |
Football Far North Coast |
Football Far North Coast run the competitions for MiniRoos, Youth, Adult and Masters levels in the Northern Rivers region |
Northern Rivers Regional Rugby League |
Northern Rivers Regional Rugby League competitions currently have 13 clubs Play Rugby League's list of Northern Rivers Regional Clubs |
Far North Coast Rugby Union |
Far North Coast Rugby Union co-ordinates the competition in the region for 17 clubs. Grafton Rugby plays in the Mid North Coast competition Rugby Explorer list of Union Clubs in Far North Coast |
Far North Coast Baseball |
Far North Coast Baseball runs an annual competition with 6 active clubs in Lismore, Ballina, Casino. The Tweed Northern Rivers Baseball Club play in a Gold Coast competition Far North Coast Baseball Clubs |
AusCycling |
AusCycling lists 8 registered cycling, mountain bike and BMX clubs in the region. Many of these clubs are closely connected to Cycling and Mountain Biking Club Finder |
Surfing Australia |
Links are to a map listing of more than 25 Surfing Australia listed clubs and surf schools within the Northern Rivers. |
Gymnastics NSW |
Gymnastics NSW lists 21 registered clubs from Grafton up to the Tweed Gymnastics NSW list of Clubs |
ParkRun |
There are ParkRun’s currently taking place in Kingscliff Ballina, Casino, Lismore, Yamba and Grafton. |
Surf Life Saving Clubs |
The current 11 locations of far north coast surf life saving clubs include:
|
Social and Artistic Groups
The Northern Rivers is not just a place to live; it's a place to immerse yourself in a rich tapestry of culture, creativity, and camaraderie. So, get ready to embark on a journey filled with endless possibilities for personal and social growth in this captivating region.
A haven for artists, musicians, writers, and performers, the region hosts a vibrant arts scene, featuring galleries, live music venues, and cultural festivals throughout the year. Whether you're an artist looking for inspiration or an appreciator of the arts, you'll find a thriving creative community here.
Beyond the arts, the Northern Rivers boasts a warm and welcoming social landscape. Join local clubs, gardening groups, or attend community markets to meet like-minded individuals. Explore the region's natural wonders through running, walking, hiking, kayaking, and beachcombing with new friends who share your interests.