AUSTRALIAN SURF LIFESAVING CHAMPS RETURN TO THE GOLD COAST

February 26: The Whereis® Australian Surf Life Saving Championships are set to return to the Gold Coast in March for the next three years as part of a long term agreement with the Queensland Government.

Under the agreement, the Gold Coast is set to become a semi-permanent base for the ‘Aussies' with the event to be staged at Kurrawa from 2010-2012 and rotate between other states and the Gold Coast every two years.

Thus, the Gold Coast will host at least seven Australian Surf Life Saving Championships between 2010 and 2022 (ie 2010, 2011, 2012, 2015, 2016, 2019 and 2020). 

Dates have now been released for Aussies for the 2011 and 2012 events:

2010:   16-21 March, Kurrawa Beach

2011:   5-10 April, Kurrawa Beach

2012:   27 March - 1 April, Kurrawa Beach

Queensland Premier Anna Bligh said anyone thinking of coming to the Aussies in 2011 and 2012  should circle the calendar now.

"The Aussies have come home to the Gold Coast and it's great to see them back," said Ms Bligh.

"This is an iconic event and I encourage everyone to mark down the dates and think about coming to see it for themselves - you won't be disappointed."

The Aussies is the largest event of its type in the world and Surf Life Saving Australia's President Ron Rankin AM said there is something for everyone to enjoy.

"With more than 7,500 competitors expected to contest more than 290 events along with entertainment both on and off the beach, the Aussies is the biggest event of its type in the world. 

"We are very fortunate to have great support from the Premier Anna Bligh and her Government along with the Queensland Event Corporation and the Gold Coast City Council to help deliver and celebrate this great event. 

"This event is a true celebration of Aussie beach culture and sporting success and we'd encourage people to come along and help us celebrate," said Mr Rankin.