Port Macquarie has become the home of touch football in NSW in recent years, and this year we help celebrate the 41st running of the event which is expected to inject more than $6 million into our local economy.

The matches will take place at the Regional Sporting Complex and Tuffins Lane fields.

It kicks off on Friday, December 1, with competition on throughout the weekend, and the finals to be played on Sunday.

I urge everyone to please take care while travelling around town, particularly Hastings River Drive, as there will be an increase in traffic over the three days of competition.

Best of luck to all of the teams competing this weekend and we hope the weather turns it on for another fantastic State Cup in Port Macquarie. To find out more visit nswtouch.com.au.

It’s time to dust off those reindeer antlers, put on your Santa hat and come join in the fun at this year’s Countdown to Christmas in Port Macquarie this Thursday, from 5.30pm until 8.30pm.

Festivities get underway with the popular and very funny Mascot Race down Horton Street, followed by the Christmas Parade.

Families are invited to line the street to watch community groups in full festive attire.

Santa will wave to all on the way the Town Square, where entertainment and lighting of the Christmas tree will follow the parade.

The event finale is the Pycon Homes Fireworks Spectacular lighting up the sky about 8.15pm.

So bring your chairs, picnic rugs and enjoy a fantastic evening with the family, as our community comes together to celebrate the festive season and the official opening of our new Town Square.

For more information visit pmhc.nsw.gov.au/events.