Inverell Shire Council is set to host the 2026 Swimming NSW Country Regional Meet at the modern, high-tech Inverell Aquatic Centre on Saturday, January 17, and Sunday, January 18, 2026.
This esteemed two-day occasion, coordinated by Swimming NSW in partnership with the Inverell Swimming Club, is anticipated to deliver significant advantages to the surrounding community.
The meet is expected to draw around 400 participants, encompassing 360 athletes and 40 officials, with approximately 85% of those attending coming from beyond the Inverell Shire Local Government Area. With a projected economic boost of $593,685.00 to the local visitor economy, the event exemplifies how sports tourism can promote regional progress.
The Inverell Aquatic Centre, which is run by Belgravia Leisure, is poised to offer a premium setting for this notable competition, which plays a vital role in the swimming pathways initiative. Athletes from across regional NSW will have the chance to compete at an elevated level, with the occasion acting as a gateway to the NSW Country Championships and State Championships.
This meet will not only endorse swimming but also provide a considerable uplift to local enterprises. Visitors are predicted to stay for an average of 1.7 nights, and their presence during a typically slower tourism season will serve as a favorable enhancement for the Shire’s economy.
The collaboration between the Council and Sports Marketing Australia (SMA) has been pivotal in securing events of this nature. SMA is acknowledged as a frontrunner in the placement of sports and entertainment events, and its partnership with the Council has enabled a constant influx of sporting events to be hosted in Inverell over the previous decade.
Belgravia Leisure has confirmed that other facilities within the Inverell Aquatic Centre will remain available to the public throughout the event, ensuring accessibility for locals while accommodating a significant competition. Swimming NSW will promote the meet through its online platforms, reaching an audience of over 50,000 through emails, e-newsletters, and its website.
“We take pride in endorsing this event, which not only underscores the talent and commitment of regional swimmers but also brings substantial economic and social advantages to Inverell. Events like this reaffirm our dedication to fostering sports tourism and community involvement,” stated Mayor Cr Kate Dight.
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