In a first for the city, Bathurst is hosting the national event, and enjoying an economic injection worth hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Bathurst mayor Bobby Bourke said it was a fantastic opportunity for the city.

"There are 300 players and at least another 200 supporters here. That translates to a lot of money for the Bathurst economy. The motels are booked out, the cafes and restaurants will be busy, it's great for Bathurst."

Cr Bourke said Bathurst had established itself as a centre with excellent sporting facilities, and that was something he was keen to build on.

He said council has focused on this and will continue to do so.

"People say why do council spend money on this or that. This [bringing hundreds of people to the city] is why we do it."

Melissa Bestwick, manager of Bathurst Hockey Complex, said it was the first time Bathurst had held an Australian hockey title, and said it was a significant achievement.

"We've never had anything like this before, and it's great."

She said Bathurst has held many championships here, and through word of mouth, Hockey Australia heard about the facilities.

"They've taken into account the facilities we have here, the number of turfs, and given our good reputation and it was NSW's turn to host the tournament, we were the pick of the bunch.

Mrs Bestwick said there were 12 girls teams and 11 boys teams competing, with all going into camp on Wednesday afternoon.

Teams trained on Thursday with the competition kicking off 8am Friday morning.

She said the economic benefits to the town were incredible.

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"It's not just the players who are here, each team has a coach, assistant coach and manager, and physiotherapist.

"You've also get umpires and tech bench people, officials and people from Hockey Australia

"And because of the age group U15, parents are also travelling with the teams."

She said they are all staying in local accommodation, eating at local cafes and restaurants, and supporting the city.

"It really is massive, not only for Bathurst, but the region itself."

Mrs Bestwick said volunteers were still needed for the canteen which is running during the tournament. "If anyone wants to volunteer, leave their contact details at the hockey complex on 6331 5126."

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