The men’s division will be contested by 23 teams, there are eight sides registered in the women’s competition while there’s five sides in the Under-17s.

It means there will be a jam-packed day of rugby at the fields at Crescent Head. The action commences at 8am and a new match is scheduled to start every 16-minutes.

The pool structured tournament guarantees each team will play at least three matches. The top team from each pool will advance to contest for the top prize, while the lower sides will compete for a consolation award.

Organiser Brad Taylor believes the event is a positive for the region.

“There’s going to be at least 40 teams there and each team has 15 players, coaching staff, supporters and other people who travel with them,” Taylor told the Argus.

“The majority of teams will stay in Crescent Head for the weekend and head to local businesses for their meals and drinks.

“It brings a lot of money into the region and that’s good for everybody.”

While the region will benefit, Taylor admits the carnival is also necessary for the Cannonballs to remain financial.

“It’s also great for us as a club, it sets us up for the year,” Taylor said.

“There’s thousands of dollars that the club has to pay every year to take part in the Upper Mid North Coast competition and that’s before you begin considering jersey costs, equipment and facility upkeep.”

The Cannonballs will be represented in the men’s, women’s and Under-17s divisions.

The Cannonballs will enter an Indigenous side for the first time and the team has been created to help develop Aboriginal athletes and create a rugby pathway for them moving forward.

Sides will compete in the event from all across the state.

Taylor encourages everyone to attend the event.

“It’s always a great day of rugby and everyone who comes along will have an enjoyable day,” Taylor said.

There will be full canteen and alcohol facilities available.

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