More than 2000 swimmers, officials and supporters will make a splash in Warrnambool in January 2020, with the Victorian Country Swimming Championships to be held at AquaZone.
The three day event will run from January 24-26, with the state's best junior swimmers outside of metro Melbourne set to compete.
Warrnambool last hosted the event in 2010, with Mayor Tony Herbert excited to see its return.
"As Victoria's largest coastal city outside of Port Phillip Bay, Warrnambool has always had a special connection with the water, and swimming is a big part of our culture," he said.
"Events like the Victorian Country Swimming Championships are really important to our city, and we love hosting them.
"Attracting so many new visitors to the city at the tail end of the peak holiday season is fantastic news for local businesses.
"Having about 2000 people in Warrnambool for the one event also creates a real buzz around the city.
"The championships will be extra special for our local competitors. Being able to swim in their home city means that their friends and extended families can come and cheer them on.
"I look forward to welcoming everyone to Warrnambool in January."
Barwon South West Swimming Association President Brett Johnston said that he was excited to host the championships in January.
"The opportunity to host a major championship event in Warrnambool is testament to the support that our community gives to regional sport," he said.
"Our local swimmers are looking forward to the spectacular three days of high level competition against their counterparts from all across Victoria."
Swimming Victoria's General Manager Tim Frampton said that he was looking forward to bringing such a major swimming event to Warrnambool.
"Our Country Championships are a unique celebration of our wonderful country swimming community and we are very excited to be returning to Warrnambool for the 2020 Championships."
