YOUNG SWIMMING STARS HEAD FOR CALOUNDRA

Queensland’s young swimming hopefuls will converge on Caloundra for the Queensland School Sport 10 - 12 Years State Championships this week.

Education and Training Minister, Rod Welford, said today the rising young swimming stars had been selected from thousands of hopefuls to represent their region at state level.

"I want to congratulate each of the athletes on their selection, and wish them every success," Mr Welford said.

“Almost 600 students will compete at the championships to be held at the Caloundra Aquatic Lifestyle Centre from Wednesday 28 to Friday 30 March.

“The three-day event is being hosted on the SunshineCoast for the first time.

“Queensland has traditionally produced a number of talented young swimmers and I wouldn’t be surprised if some of these students followed in the footsteps of the likes of Grant Hackett and Leisel Jones.

"I would like to thank our dedicated teachers and school staff who have given considerable time and effort to make the championships a success.”

Twelve sporting regions will be represented at this year's championships—

Metropolitan West, Metropolitan North, Metropolitan East, South West, Wide Bay, Capricornia, Darling Downs, Northern, North Western, Peninsula, South Coast and Sunshine Coast.

Mr Welford said the event provided a great opportunity for the young athletes to compete at a high level while meeting and sharing experiences with their peers from across the state.

At the conclusion of the championships a state team will be selected to represent Queensland at the School Sport Australia Swimming Exchange in Adelaide in June.

Media contact: Greg Milne or Marnie Stitz on 3237 1000