The Olympics spirit is in the air, with the Winter Olympics underway in Italy.

Closer to home, a cultural Olympic event will soon take place.

Aboriginal Elders from across New South Wales will gather on Yaegl Country next month for the 24th annual Aboriginal Elders Olympics, with the highly anticipated event set to take place in Yamba on 11 and 12 March.

Over 200 Elders are expected to take part in the celebration of culture, connection and community, which will be hosted on their Country by the reigning champions, the Biirrinba Coastal Emus.

While nominations have now closed, preparations are well underway for the event, which will bring together teams from across the state for friendly competition and cultural exchange.

The annual event is supported by the New South Wales Aboriginal Land Council (NSWALC) through a Community Grant to assist with venue hire and event costs.

This year also marks a milestone, with those sitting on the NSWALC forming and fielding a team for the first time.

The first day's program will include a meet-and-greet and a cultural tour of Yaegl Country, providing an opportunity for visiting Elders to connect with local culture and history.

The importance of Elders in communities is recognised at the Elders Olympics according to NSWALC Chairperson Raymond Kelly.

NSWALC Chairperson Cr Raymond Kelly said the event plays an important role in recognising the contribution of Elders to communities across NSW.

“Elders are such an important part of our communities - their wisdom, strength and guidance continue to inspire us all,” Cr Kelly said.

“The Elders Olympics is a major event on our calendar and a wonderful way to celebrate their spirit and the role they play in keeping Culture strong.”

He said NSWALC was proud to continue supporting the Olympics and looked forward to seeing Elders come together on Yaegl Country.

NSWALC Councillor for the North Coast Region Diane Randall said hosting the event in her region was something she was particularly proud of.

“This year’s Aboriginal Elders Olympics will be an exciting time to connect with family, friends and meet new people,” Cr Randall said.

“NSWALC is excited to be fielding our very first team and participating in such a wonderful event.”

Families and friends are encouraged to attend the event and support Elders as they compete, reconnect and share culture.

Teams will also be competing for the right to claim the Elders Olympics title and host the 2027 event.