2026 Country Swimming Championships

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2026 Country Swimming Championships

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The 2026 Country Swimming Championships are again going to be held at Parap Pool in Darwin with a variety of activities taking place from the 27th September until the 3rd October 2026. Full details can be found in the Pre-Meet Information Booklet.

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This year we are aiming to get more swimmers from more all clubs from across Australia (both regional and metro), ready  to have a great experience involving the sport they love, as well as enjoying the company of and making life long friends from around Australia. In addition to the undertaking of the Swimming Championships we are planning on making the trip very worthwhile for all stakeholders and participants by having a plethora of supporting activities taking place to make this a true festival of swimming.

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The 2026 Championships are shaping up to be our biggest and most exciting yet, bringing together outstanding racing, Territory hospitality, national connection and the unforgettable atmosphere that continues to make this event one of the most talked-about swim meets in Australia. The 2026 Championships aren’t just a swim meet; they are a celebration of everything we love about Australian swimming, set against the breathtaking sunsets of Darwin. Whether you're chasing a PB, a medal, or just an unforgettable family adventure, this is the one meet you cannot miss.

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For all the relevant Championship Pre-Meet information, click on the button below to access the 2026 Country Swimming Championships Pre-Meet Information Booklet.

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This year’s event will again be held at Parap Pool, Darwin, with clinics commencing on Sunday 27th September, racing beginning under lights on Monday 28th September, pool events running through to Friday 2nd October. Once again, festivities will be completed with the spectacular Top End Open Water Team Relay taking place at the Darwin Waterfront on Saturday 3rd October.

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Key updates for the 2026 event include:

• Expansion to include swimmers from all over Australia, both regional and metro, while preserving the event’s strong country swimming focus.

• A bigger event schedule, including Sunday clinics and a Monday evening racing start.

• A dedicated Technical Official Training Day on Monday 28 September.

• The continuation of the popular 25yrs & over category.

• Metro-based swimmers classified as visitors, with clear A-Final (3) and B-Final (5) visitor limits.

• Expanded B-Final age groups to accommodate more opportunities for swimmers: 11–13yrs, 14–15yrs and 16yrs & over.

• The Junior Age Challenge (8-11yrs) running across the first four days of the Championships, with the addition of the 200m IM.

• Entries opening on Swim Central from Monday 1 June 2026.

• Entry fees remaining the same as last year – to assist families manage costs.

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This is more than a swim meet. It is fast racing, big energy, lifelong memories, sunsets, open water, team spirit and a true Territory experience. Come to Darwin. Bring your club. Bring your family. Be part of Australia’s best swim meet.

 

Save the dates, book the holidays, come and experience the swim meet of a lifetime - NT the adventure capital of Australia!!!