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Inverell Shire Council will host the 2026 Swimming NSW Country Regional Meet at its new Inverell Aquatic Centre on Saturday 17th and Sunday 18th January 2026.

The two-day event, organised by Swimming NSW in collaboration with Inverell Swimming Club, is expected to bring significant benefits to the local community - potentially attracting 400 participants, including 360 competitors and 40 officials, with 85% of attendees coming from outside the Inverell Shire local government area.

With an anticipated economic injection of $593,685 into the local visitor economy, the event is a prime example of sports tourism driving regional development.

Expected to open in the coming weeks, the Inverell Aquatic Centre, managed by Belgravia Leisure, will provide a premium venue for this major competition, which plays a key role in the swimming pathways program.

Participants from across regional NSW 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.

The Council has advised that its partnership with Sports Marketing Australia (SMA) has been instrumental in securing events like this. SMA is recognised as a leader in sports and entertainment event placement, and its collaboration with Council has seen a steady stream of sporting events hosted in Inverell over the past decade.

Belgravia Leisure has ensured that 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. Swimming NSW will promote the meet through its digital platforms, reaching an audience of over 50,000 via emails, e-newsletters and its website.

Inverell Mayor Kate Dight noted “we are proud to support this event, which not only highlights the talent and dedication of regional swimmers but also delivers significant economic and social benefits to Inverell.

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

Image: Swimming NSW competition. Credit: Swimming NSW.

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