Sunshine Coast hosts Queensland's biggest junior footy festival 130325

Football Queensland is excited to announce the return of WinterFest to the Sunshine Coast from July 2-6, 2025.

Welcoming more than 2,000 footballers, the state's largest junior football carnival will again be delivered by Football Queensland (FQ) in partnership with the Sunshine Coast Council and Visit Sunshine Coast.

The carnival will feature Under 9 to Under 11 boys and girls teams from across Queensland.

Football Queensland CEO Robert Cavallucci said after the success of previous editions, we're excited to announce the return of WinterFest25, welcoming our most promising development young talent from all regions across the state to the Sunshine Coast in July 2025.

"As the premier junior football carnival in Queensland, WinterFest offers young athletes a fantastic platform to showcase their skills and potential, whilst also providing FQ coaches and technical staff the perfect opportunity to identify and track the development of emerging talent across the state," Mr Cavallucci said.

"WinterFest provides a unique opportunity for players to compete in a professional setting while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of the Sunshine Coast, renowned for its world-class facilities and natural beauty.

"WinterFest25 not only gives players valuable exposure but also helps develop the next generation of elite referees.

"With support from experienced officials and FQ staff, these emerging referees gain essential matchday experience, contributing to Queensland's football growth at all levels.

"This event continues to be a highlight on the junior football calendar, and we are grateful for the ongoing support of Sunshine Coast Council and Visit Sunshine Coast, whose contributions help to create a memorable carnival for all involved."

Six young footballers siting on a tiered spectator bench seat with their hands up in the air and one has thrown a soccer ball showing in the top right corner. One player is in a bright orange shirt amongst them, a football referee in the making.

Energetic on field, explorers off field

Sunshine Coast Strong Economy Councillor Terry Landsberg said the Sunshine Coast Council was committed to providing great opportunities for young athletes to compete and develop their skills in a safe, welcoming environment.

“Football Queensland has chosen to host the five-day event on the Sunshine Coast and we are proud to support the juniors and their families coming here for the state’s biggest football carnival,” Cr Landsberg said.

“These gifted youngsters have the potential to represent Australia in the near future.

“This is especially significant as the Sunshine Coast is a Co-Host City for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

“We are proposed to host nine Olympic and Paralympic events, including preliminary football matches at Sunshine Coast Stadium.

“When off the field, we hope those visiting the Sunshine Coast can take the time to sample many of the wide range of experiences, events and attractions we have to offer.”

Local club host with the most

Sunshine Coast Division 7 Councillor Ted Hungerford said it was great to see Maroochydore Football Club play host to so much sporting action and talent on the Sunshine Coast.

“Sporting competitions are a fantastic way to develop skills, hone talent and form lasting bonds with teammates,” Cr Hungerford said.

“I’m really excited these opportunities are available and that they’re here on the Sunshine Coast.

“With excellent sporting facilities for the teams and athletes and plenty of accommodation and activities for the families, there’s many benefits to hosting WinterFest25.”