INVERELL Shire Council will host the 2026 Swimming NSW Country Regional Meet at the state-of-the-art Inverell Aquatic Centre on Saturday-Sunday, January 17-18 next year.

The prestigious two-day event, organised by Swimming NSW in collaboration with Inverell Swimming Club, is expected to bring significant benefits to the Inverell community.

It is expected the event will bring approximately 400 participants, including 360 competitors and 40 officials, with 85 per cent of attendees coming from outside the Inverell Shire Local Government Area and generate about $700,000 in the local economy.

Mayor Cr Kate Dight said Inverell was proud to support the event.

“This event not only highlights the talent and dedication of regional swimmers, but also delivers significant economic and social benefits to Inverell,” Cr Dight said.

“Events like these reinforce our commitment to fostering sports tourism and community engagement.”

The Inverell Aquatic Centre, managed by Belgravia Leisure, will provide a premium venue for the major competition, which plays a key role in the swimming pathways program.

Artist’s impression of the new multi-million dollar Inverell Aquatic Centre, which will be officially opened in January, 2025.

Participants from across regional New South Wales will have the opportunity to compete at a high level, with the event serving as a stepping stone to the NSW Country Championships and State Championships.

The meet will not only promote swimming but also provide a substantial boost to local businesses. Visitors are expected to stay an average of 1.7 nights, and their presence during a traditionally quieter tourism period will be a welcome boost for the Shire’s economy.

Council’s partnership with Sports Marketing Australia (SMA) has been instrumental in securing the event.

SMA is recognised as a leader in sports and entertainment event placement, and its collaboration with Inverell Shire Council has seen a steady stream of sporting events hosted in Inverell over the past decade.

Belgravia Leisure has ensured other areas of the Inverell Aquatic Centre will remain open to the public during the event, maintaining accessibility for residents while hosting a high-profile competition.

Completion of the multi-million dollar facility is on schedule for commissioning in late December, with the official opening to be held this month.

Media Release