Shellharbour Esports Day is already sold out. Photo: Australian Esports League.
Shellharbour is levelling up this summer, launching its inaugural Shellharbour Esports Day as part of a packed month of inclusive activities designed to connect young people and families through new experiences.
In partnership with the Australian Esports League, Shellharbour Council Acting Mayor Kellie Marsh said the free, all-ages Shellharbour Esports Day on 13 January was part of council’s commitment to providing events for a younger demographic.
“We really want to provide something for everyone and bring everyone into the fold,” Cr Marsh said.
“Hosting something like this at the civic centre, we’re hoping to bring a new cohort of people that maybe wouldn’t have been to our civic centre before.
“They’re getting out, they’re meeting like-minded people they can have conversations with, and it also expands their networks, which is really important.
“Esports is a growing global industry and it’s very popular here in Australia and gaining momentum.”
She said esports weren’t just for kids, with the event open to all skill levels and ages 12 to 24.
“A lot of people think esports are just for young ones, but it’s not,” she said.
“There are different competition streams for different age groups.
“I love the fact that it’s not just about gaming, but it’s about friendly competition, community and having a bit of fun on the day.”
The response from the community has been overwhelming, with registrations quickly reaching the 150-participant cap.
However, she said those interested could still attend on the day to fill any spots that may open up.
“You don’t have to participate either – you can come along and watch what’s happening as well,” she said.
Funded by the NSW Government’s Holiday Break Program and administered by the Department of Communities and Justice, the event offers free registration and is fully equipped with gaming gear.
Australia Day Breakfast By The Lake. Photo: Shellharbour City Council.
Arrival will be at 9 am, with competitions throughout the day in Mario Kart World, Super Smash Bros, EA Sports FC 25 and F1 2024, along with finals and medal ceremonies at 3 pm.
Cr Marsh said it added to a vibrant calendar for January, which included the always popular Australia Day Breakfast by the Lake on 26 January from 8 am to noon at Reddall Reserve, Lake Illawarra.
It will feature rock climbing, laser tag, stand up paddleboarding, live music and old favourites such as sand modelling competitions thanks to community demand.
“What I’m really looking forward to is the parkour games,” she said.
A new feature for the event, parkour is an athletic training sport where participants move through buildings or obstacles in efficient and acrobatic ways.
“Again, this is a very popular activity and there’s been a lot of attention for parkour on YouTube as well,” she said.
“It’s on foot with obstacles and the end goal being to do as many stunts as possible and to beat the clock.
“We’re really trying to focus our events that have something for a diverse range of age groups and activities.”
The day will also include community groups serving up breakfast barbecues, slip ‘n’ slides and water play, jumping castles, market stalls, and kids arts and crafts.
“It’s a big thing on our calendar and we’re expecting record numbers,” she said.
Cr Marsh said she was looking forward to seeing the community getting involved in it.
Other January events include a free family trivia night for all ages on 22 January and pool open days with giant inflatables and splash pads throughout the month.
Shelharbour Esports Day will be held 13 January at Shellharbour Civic Centre from 9 am.
