Published 27 June 2026
New South Wales reclaims Interstate title at Australian Pool Lifesaving Championships 2026
Three days of outstanding competition in Perth saw New South Wales reclaim the Sir Percy Joske Trophy while emerging athletes, close contests and exceptional sportsmanship highlighted another memorable Australian Pool Lifesaving Championships.
Hosted by Royal Life Saving Western Australia at Perth High Performance Centre, the Championships brought together athletes from across Australia to compete in events that test the speed, skill, judgement and teamwork required to perform real-world rescues. The Championships also served as a key selection event for athletes aspiring to represent Australia at the 2026 Lifesaving World Championships in Port Elizabeth – Nelson Mandela Bay, South Africa.
From the opening race through to the final relay, the standard of competition was exceptional. Many events were decided by the narrowest of margins, with the Interstate competition remaining fiercely contested throughout the weekend. Every point counted, creating an exciting atmosphere for competitors and spectators alike.
One of the highlights of the Championships was watching athletes grow across the three days of competition. From competitors stepping onto the national stage for the first time to experienced athletes delivering personal best performances, the Championships showcased not only outstanding talent but also the confidence, resilience and teamwork that define Pool Lifesaving.
The Interstate Overall Championship title and Sir Percy Joske Trophy was awarded to New South Wales, following a highly competitive Championship. (Photo featured above).
 Lifesavers of the Meet |
Individual excellence was recognised with the prestigious Lifesaver of the Meet awards, presented to Brayden Woodford (NSW) and Chelsea Jones (NSW) for their outstanding performances throughout the Championships.
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Under 14 - Male Winners |
Under 14 - Female Winners
Royal Life Saving also celebrated the future of Pool Lifesaving through the Under 14 competition, with Anzu Haywood and Leo Stork crowned the overall Under 14 champions. Mia Houshmand and Jetsun Dibley claimed second place, while Mishka Manandhar and Ari Waisak rounded out the podium in third. It was fantastic to see so many young athletes showcasing their rescue-ready skills and taking their first steps on the national stage.
Royal Life Saving Australia CEO Dr Justin Scarr congratulated all competitors on the spirit in which they competed.
"These Championships demonstrate everything that makes Pool Lifesaving unique. Every event reflects skills that save lives, and throughout the weekend we witnessed exceptional performances, close racing, teamwork and sportsmanship. It was particularly exciting to watch many of our younger and emerging athletes grow in confidence with every race. The future of Pool Lifesaving in Australia is incredibly bright."
Royal Life Saving Australia extends its sincere thanks to everyone who contributed to the success of the Championships.
A special thank you to our key officials, led by Chief Referee Joanne Teagle, together with Mary Collins (CPR Coordinator), Brione Rundle (SERC Coordinator) and Brendan Watts (Equipment Coordinator). Along with the broader team of referees, judges, marshals, timekeepers and technical officials, your professionalism and dedication ensured three days of fair, safe and exceptionally well-run competition.
Congratulations to every competitor who took to the pool over the past three days. Whether returning home with a medal, a personal best or valuable Championship experience, each athlete has contributed to another memorable Australian Pool Lifesaving Championships.
Full results will be added to the website shortly as per the following link.
Photo / Video Highlights
