The City of Ballarat will host the 2026 Australian Country Water Polo Championships, welcoming the nation's top regional athletes to the Ballarat Aquatic and Lifestyle Centre for a week of elite competition and community celebration.
Scheduled to take place from 6-9 May 2026, the Championships will draw country teams from across Regional Australia, offering locals and visitors the chance to witness high-level water polo in one of Victoria's premier sporting facilities.
City of Ballarat Mayor, Cr Tracey Hargreaves said hosting the Australian Country Water Polo Championships reflects the city's ongoing commitment to supporting regional sport and attracting major events.
"We look forward to welcoming athletes, families, and officials from across the country to the Ballarat Aquatic and Lifestyle Centre next May," Cr Hargreaves said.
"Events like this offer more than just great competition; they bring people into our city, support local businesses, highlight our excellent sporting facilities and add to the diverse calendar of experiences Ballarat has to offer."
The Australian Country Water Polo Championships is one of the most anticipated events on the regional water polo calendar, celebrating the passion, dedication, and athleticism of country teams from all states and territories.
This year's event is proudly supported by Water Polo Queensland, in partnership with the City of Ballarat, and is expected to attract hundreds of participants and spectators to the region.