[1][2] The festival contained world cups for Student, Police, Women, Defence and Wheelchair teams.

[1] Colin Love, the Rugby League World Cup 2008 Tournament Director and RLIF Chairman, stated "The festival highlights how the World Cup is embracing the Rugby League community and acknowledging its wide-ranging affiliates", adding "It’s a great opportunity to showcase the broad appeal of the game internationally".

AMP sponsored the event with organisers hoping would go towards the formation of an International Police Rugby League Federation.

Five defence forces took part, New Zealand, Australia, Great Britain, Papua New Guinea and the Cook Islands.

[10][11] Source:[6] Four teams took part in the inaugural Wheelchair Rugby League World Cup which was held at indoor venues in Sydney.