Swimmers from around the state are getting race ready for the 50th annual City of Charm Carnival at Norville Park Pool this weekend.
Alongside the 30 competitors from the Bundaberg Swim Team, 29 clubs will be attending with 300 swimmers registered to take part from 17 to 19 November.
The City of Charm Carnival is the final opportunity for swimmers to qualify for the Queensland State Champions in December and offers a full event program from 50 to 1500 metre races.
Bundaberg Swim Team President Michele Watson said they were excited to reach such a significant milestone.
“There are not very many swim meets in Queensland that have continued to operate … especially in the club environment where things change and members come and go,” Michele said.
“So we’re very proud to host an event that’s gone on for 50 years.”
Michele said part of the event's success was that Norville Park Pool had the space and technology to facilitate races at this level.
“Norville Park Pool is a fantastic regional venue,” Michelle said.
“It’s one of the best because of its size and the fact that it has a full Olympic timing system and backstroke ledges which you don’t see much outside of Brisbane.”
Michele said the competition was not only a great way to bring more visitors to Bundaberg but also gave locals the chance to watch these talented young athletes compete.
“It’s an opportunity to watch some of Australia’s fastest swimmers in our local pool which is great for local swimmers to come and watch,” she said.
“We have a proud swimming tradition in Bundaberg and a great calibre of swimmers from our region.
“You can see that every morning of the week where there are sixty kids training in the pools.
“It’s a lifestyle, it’s a culture and it’s also a really healthy way to spend your time.”
- Please note: due to the carnival Norville Pool will be closed for public use from 17 to 19 November.
