The fourth annual Kiama Beach Oztag tournament will take place on March 1 at Kendalls Beach and is quickly becoming one of the biggest community events on the Kiama calendar.

The tournament, which runs from 8:30 am to around 6:30 pm, will feature 70 teams - 37 junior and 33 senior - as well as collaborations with numerous local community groups.

Last year's Kiama Beach Tag. Source: Brian Scott.

Tournament director Keiron Duncan promises an action packed day. “It’s a free event, and everyone is welcome to come down. The Hill from Gerringong will set up a beach bar, we’ll have a live DJ, wood-fired pizza, ice cream, and the Kiama Knights will be running a barbecue. Plus, many other local businesses will be involved, so there’s plenty happening.”

The Lions Club will handle parking and recycling, and the Kiama Surf Club has volunteered to patrol the beach for the day. In return, Kiama Oztag will donate a brand new surf craft to the club.

Duncan credits the success of the event to the collaboration of so many local businesses and organisations.

“There have been many Oztag events in and around Sydney, but this one stands out because it has such a strong local vibe. It’s built around community groups, and having so many local people involved is really important,” says Duncan.

Keiron Duncan in action. Source: Brian Scott.

Over $20,000 in cash and prizes will be up for grabs across nine divisions, including NRL and State of Origin tickets. There will also be an NRL legends game during the lunch break, featuring retired NRL stars.

The tournament coincides with the conclusion of the Kiama Oztag summer competition, with grand finals taking place from February 10 to 13. Duncan describes it as another highly successful season.

“We had a really big season this year with over 150 teams and more than 2,000 players. We expanded into the leisure centre and played at the Kiama Sports Complex on Wednesdays, which was really positive,” says Duncan, who also serves as the Kiama Oztag Association Coordinator.

The Kiama Beach Oztag tournament kicks off at 8:30 am on March 1, with finals later in the day. Best of all, it’s free to attend. So, head down to Kendalls Beach and support this fantastic local community event!