More than 300 orienteers and their families will converge on Wagga Wagga over the June long weekend for the annual Queen's Birthday carnival that will deliver an economic boost to the city.
Wagga Wagga's central location and terrific orienteering terrain made it an ideal choice to host the carnival, which will bring competitors from NSW, ACT and Victoria.
With some of the best orienteering land in Australia, and lots of local attractions, the athletes – who will range in age from eight to 80 – have plenty to look forward to.
"Orienteering NSW is excited to be hosting this major annual NSW orienteering carnival," said Orienteering NSW President Robyn Pallas.
"The area is blessed with great terrain, plenty of accommodation, and a location accessible to the main population states.
"The weekend should be a boost to orienteering in general and the tourism industry in and around the Wagga area. We have a team of experienced local and state orienteers to ensure a smooth carnival.
"We also thank the Wagga Wagga City Council for their support in attracting this event."
Mayor of the City of Wagga Wagga Councillor Dallas Tout said Council was pleased to support the event and welcomed competitors to the city.
"It is wonderful to see state carnivals such as this one being held in a regional area and it is yet another feather in the city's cap when it comes to hosting top-draw sporting and cultural events," Cr Tout said.
"It is a great opportunity for us to showcase what Wagga Wagga and surrounds have to offer on the sporting and tourism fronts and it will deliver major flow-on effects for local businesses who can capitalise on the visitors it brings to our city."
The three days of competition will test participants in a variety of terrains over different distances each day. Events are:
- Saturday June 11 – Middle Distance at Murraguldrie State Forest
- Sunday June 12 – Long Distance at Murraguldrie State Forest
- Monday June 13 – Sprint Distance at Charles Sturt University
Waggaroos, the local orienteering club, welcome any locals wishing to try orienteering, particularly at CSU on the Monday. At each club event, there are courses to suit all abilities and fitness levels.
