More than 400 surf life saving competitors from Under 11 through to Masters will converge on Mackay this weekend for the North Australian Surf Life Saving Championships.

The Championships are the third-largest surf lifesaving competition in Queensland, behind only the Surf Life Saving Queensland Senior State and Symal Youth State championships, bringing more than 1200 visitors to the region.

While Cairns will be looking to defend their title as champion club, there will be fierce competition from around the regions, with competition kicking off tomorrow at Mackay Aquatic Centre with the pool rescue events and continuing across the weekend at Mackay Harbour Beach.

The competition will also double as selection for the Queensland Country Youth Team, to compete at the Queensland Interbranch Championships against Sunshine Coast, South Coast and Point Danger branches on the Gold Coast in early December.

SLSQ Surf Sport Manager Stuart Hogben said it was fantastic to be returning to Mackay after a hugely successful event in 2025.

“Since the event was first held in 1990, the North Australian Surf Life Saving Championships have grown into one of the premier events on the northern surf sports calendar, bringing together generations of athletes from across Queensland and Northern Australia,” he said.

“With juniors, seniors and masters all competing, the Championships celebrate the skill, dedication and community spirit that are at the heart of surf lifesaving. We will then see some of the athletes join us at our State Championship events in March as part of their Branch teams.”

Mayor Greg Williamson said Mackay Regional Council was proud to welcome back competitors, officials, volunteers and spectators to the 2026 North Australian Surf Life Saving Championships.

“Council is delighted to welcome back this fantastic Championship to the Mackay region and to host the surf lifesaving community again for what promises to be a tremendous weekend of competition and camaraderie,” Mayor Williamson said.

“We look forward to welcoming more than 1200 competitors, officials, volunteers and supporters to our region and showcasing everything that makes Mackay such a special place, from our beautiful beaches and outstanding sporting facilities to our friendly community and relaxed lifestyle.

“Whether you’re competing at Mackay Harbour Beach, racing at the Mackay Aquatic Centre or simply exploring the region between events, we hope you enjoy your time here and create lasting memories in Mackay.”