Rockhampton is poised to host the National Baton Twirling Championships this weekend, bringing around 120 competitors to the region for a vibrant showcase of athleticism, artistry and inclusivity.
Organised by Twirl Queensland, the Championships will welcome elite competitors from across Australia for World Trials, and also provide individual and team events across disciplines such as strut, one baton, two baton, artistic twirl, freestyle and dance twirl.
Deputy Mayor and Communities, Culture and Heritage Councillor Drew Wickerson said Council showed its support of the National Baton Twirling Championships in Rockhampton by providing $6,000 from the Community Assistance Program.
"This program aims to provide support for events that enhance and build our region, and the National Championships this weekend will certainly do that, bringing around 400 visitors to the region on the final weekend of the school holidays," Cr Wickerson said.
"This year marks the fourth time Rockhampton has hosted the National Baton Twirling Championships.
"We welcome all competitors and visitors to Rockhampton and hope you take the opportunity to enjoy our community and explore our region.
"It is exciting that an international competitive sport like baton twirling is being showcased here in Rockhampton, but also that these Championships will provide competition and opportunities for all ages and abilities."
Twirling Queensland Secretary Ms Susan McDonald said the Association was extremely grateful for Council funding.
"As a volunteer-based sport with a small association, this funding will cover the hall hire, sound system and trophies for the event," Ms McDonald said.
"Baton Twirling is growing in the European arena and there are multiple Japanese association with thousands of members, but it is still a small association in Australia.
"We encourage spectators and would love to fill the hall with lots of cheering and encouragement for our athletes and showcase the sport to the public."
The Championship schedule includes:
- Friday 3 October – World Trials with five members trialling for the 2026 World Championships in France in August 2026, in addition to Twirl Cup (held separately to Nationals allowing for athletes who didn't qualify to compete at Nationals the opportunity to grade).
- Saturday 4 October – Individual events including Strut, One Baton, Two Baton, Three Baton, Artistic Twirl, Freestyle and Dance Twirl and Specialised Teams.
- Sunday 5 October – Champion of Champions (winners of the Advanced Individual Sections), Team events, Marchpast, Presentations and Closing Ceremony.
The Championships will be held at CQUniversity Community Sports Centre, Yaamba Road, Norman Gardens from 5pm Friday, 8.30am until 7pm Saturday, and 9am until 2pm on Sunday.
