Swimmers from Rockhampton and beyond will take to the blocks this weekend, vying for State Championship qualification at the Rocky City Twilight Meet.
Rockhampton Regional Council is proudly supporting Rocky City Amateur Swimming Club with a $6,000 sponsorship for this year's event.
The meet will attract competitors and spectators from Townsville to Brisbane and offers $17,760 in prize money, the largest of any regional swimming meet in Australia.
Parks, Sport and Public Spaces Councillor Cherie Rutherford said supporting events such as the Rocky City Twilight Meet was important for backing our future athletes.
"We're going to see hundreds of young athletes dive into the pool this weekend who, someday, could become the Ian Thorpe's or Libby Trickett's of the future," Cr Rutherford said.
"These sporting meets show our local athletes they have what it takes to compete at a high level not only in their own backyard, but on a state, national and international stage.
"But having an event such as this is not only important for our athletes, but also our community with people coming together to cheer on our athletes and visiting families supporting our local businesses and boosting our economy."
Rocky City Head Coach Shane Kingston said this year's event would see local swimmer and newly selected member of the Australian Dolphins swim team, Amelie Smith, compete in one of her final meets before heading to the World Cup.
Mr Kingston said recent upgrades to the 2nd War Memorial Pool, including new starting blocks, would provide quality racing conditions for swimmers.
"We're really grateful for Rockhampton Regional Council's support through the Community Assistance Program because it helps us cover venue hire costs and provide additional shade for competitors and spectators, which is particularly important in November," Mr Kingston said.
"The meet continues to attract a strong field of age-group swimmers. With the Queensland Long Course Championships approaching, we're looking forward to some fast racing.
"This meet is important for our local swimmers because it's the final local qualifying opportunity before the State Championships in December. The twilight format also gives swimmers the chance to race into the evening, helping them prepare for finals at state, national and international events."
The Rocky City Twilight Meet will begin at 6pm on Friday, 6 November, with racing continuing from 8.30am on Saturday and 9am on Sunday at the 2nd War Memorial Pool.
The Community Assistance Program supports non-profit, community-based organisations through grants and sponsorships for projects and events that enhance the wellbeing of the region.
