Australia’s biggest swimming stars are making a splash at the 2023 World Championship Trials which are currently underway in Melbourne.
More than 500 athletes are competing in the trials which are being held at Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre until June 18.
Tourism, Sport and Major Events Minister Steve Dimopoulos said hosting Australia’s largest domestic swimming event will boost local jobs.
“We’re hosting some of the country’s biggest and best swimming stars – right here in the major events capital of Australia,” Mr Dimopoulos said.
“Our state-of-the-art sporting facilities continue to attract blockbuster events to the state, helping to support thousands of local businesses and jobs.”
Thousands of fans are expected to turn out to catch a glimpse of their favourite athletes, including; Ariarne Titmus, Kyle Chalmers, Cody Simpson and Lani Pallister.
Local heroes are also competing at the event, including Sam Williamson who won one gold, two silver and a bronze medal at the 2022 Commonwealth Games.
Swimmers will compete in 236 races across 12 sessions in pursuit of a place on the Australian swimming team ahead of the World Aquatics Championships in Japan next month.
Swimming Australia interim chief executive Steve Newman said they are thrilled to be back in Melbourne for the trials.
“Swimming is delighted to kickstart a bumper month of world-class sport here in the Victorian capital,” Mr Newman said.
“For our athletes this is the start of a big 12 months starting with the World Championships next month and culminating in the Paris 2024 Olympics.
“The road to the World Championships in Japan starts here, and we are thrilled to be back in Melbourne.”
