The Gold Coast’s sporting community came together in spectacular fashion on Saturday 28 February 2026 for the 57th Gold Coast Sports Awards, an evening dedicated to recognising the athletes, clubs, volunteers and leaders who continue to shape the city’s reputation as one of Australia’s premier sporting destinations.
Held at The Star Gold Coast, the prestigious black-tie event welcomed over 500 guests from across the sporting, business and community sectors. The evening celebrated outstanding achievements across the past 12 months while acknowledging the people and organisations whose passion and dedication drive sport on the Gold Coast forward.
Hosted by Olympian Brooke Hanson OAM and Channel 9 presenter Luke Bradnam, the night featured inspiring stories of perseverance, world-class performances, and the extraordinary impact sport has on our community.
From grassroots volunteers to elite international champions, the awards once again highlighted the depth of talent and commitment within the Gold Coast sporting landscape.
57th Gold Coast Sports Awards – Award Winners
Gold Coast Athlete of the Year
Matt Rowell
Gold Coast SUNS midfielder Matt Rowell was crowned the 2026 Gold Coast Athlete of the Year following an exceptional season that saw him emerge as one of the AFL’s most dominant players. Rowell’s relentless work ethic, leadership and consistent elite performances have made him a standout figure in Australian sport, with his win marking a historic moment as the first athlete from a team sport to receive the award in the event’s 57-year history.
Para Athlete of the Year
Alexa Leary
Paralympic swimmer Alexa Leary was recognised as Para Athlete of the Year following a remarkable return to the international stage. Her performances in the pool have not only delivered outstanding results but have also inspired the broader sporting community, highlighting her resilience, determination and commitment to excellence.
Junior Athlete of the Year
Arisa Trew
Skateboarding prodigy Arisa Trew was named Junior Athlete of the Year after another extraordinary year on the global stage. As one of the most exciting young talents in world sport, Trew continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in skateboarding, proudly representing the Gold Coast while inspiring the next generation of athletes.
Mayors Choice Award
Kai Sakakibara
Kai Sakakibara was awarded the City of Gold Coast Mayor’s Choice Award for his extraordinary resilience and inspiring journey back to the world stage. After overcoming a life-threatening brain injury, Kai’s determination to return to elite BMX competition has captured the hearts of the sporting community and stands as a powerful example of perseverance.
Junior Volunteer of the Year
Noah Flaherty
The Junior Volunteer of the Year award recognised Noah Flaherty for his outstanding commitment to supporting sport within the local community. Through countless hours of volunteering and assisting across multiple sporting activities, Noah exemplifies the spirit of community sport and demonstrates the powerful impact young leaders can have in strengthening local clubs and programs.
Daphne Pirie AO MBE Spirit of Sport Medal
Daryl and Jo Kelly
The prestigious Daphne Pirie AO MBE Spirit of Sport Medal was awarded to Daryl and Jo Kelly, recognising their lifelong dedication to supporting sport on the Gold Coast. Their passion, leadership and tireless contribution have helped foster participation, opportunity and community connection through sport for countless athletes and volunteers.
Club of the Year
Southport Sharks
The Southport Sharks were named Club of the Year in recognition of their continued excellence both on and off the field. With strong performances across multiple sporting codes and a deep commitment to community engagement and development, the club continues to set the benchmark for sporting organisations on the Gold Coast.
Sport Tech & Innovation Award
Pitch Up
The Sport Tech & Innovation Award was awarded to Pitch Up, recognising their forward-thinking approach to enhancing sport through technology and innovation. Their work demonstrates how new ideas and emerging technologies can create meaningful impact across the sporting ecosystem, from participation to performance.
Sports Photograph of the Year
Bailey Sands
Photographer Bailey Sands received the Sports Photograph of the Year award for a powerful image that captured the emotion, intensity and storytelling power of sport. The photograph beautifully reflects the raw moments that define athletic competition and the unique ability of sport to inspire and connect communities.
Gold Coast Sporting Hall of Fame
Mat Rogers
A highlight of the evening was the induction of Mat Rogers into the Gold Coast Sporting Hall of Fame. A dual international who represented Australia in both rugby league and rugby union, Rogers’ remarkable career and lasting influence on Australian sport earned him a place among the Gold Coast’s sporting greats. His legacy continues to inspire future generations of athletes across the region.
