The Kids Aqua is the perfect way for young ones to dive into the excitement of the Wollongong Aquathon, with a swim-run event designed just for them. With lifesavers galore, cheering crowds, and a friendly, supportive atmosphere, every kid gets the superstar treatment. The swim is held in the sheltered waters of Wollongong Harbour, with kids swimming a safe rectangular course, no more than 60m from shore. Under 10s complete a 140m swim and 10-13s take on a 200m swim. Parents of U10S are welcome to swim alongside their child for support, but must stay at the back of the pack for safety reasons. And to keep things safe and enjoyable for everyone, all swimmers must be able to complete the swim unaided as a condition of entry. After exiting the water, kids will head up the stairs into the transition/change area, where they’ll pop on their runners and hit the track. The run is a 2km flat, out-and-back course along the stunning Blue Mile Coastal Walk, safe, easy to follow, and lined with supportive volunteers and cheering spectators. Whether they’re future triathlon champs or just giving it a go, the Kids Aqua is all about having fun, building confidence, and enjoying an active start to Australia Day.

The Mini Aqua is a great option if you’re new to the sport, looking for a short and sweet challenge, or just keen to dip your toes in without going the full distance. With a 200m swim and 2km run, it’s all the fun of an aquathon without the pressure. Held within the mostly sheltered waters of Wollongong Harbour, the swim follows a rectangular course close to the shoreline, totalling 200m. It’s a safe, supportive swim that’s great for first-timers and those still building their confidence in the open water. After a quick transition from the water, you’ll hit the Blue Mile Coastal Path for a flat, scenic 2km run (1km out and back) to North Beach and return. Whether you run, jog, or walk, the course is easy to follow and lined with friendly marshals to keep you on track. By the time you cross the finish line, you’ll be wondering why you didn’t go longer, but hey, there’s always next year! A fun, low-pressure way to get a feel for aquathlon and enjoy a high-energy Australia Day on the coast.

The Short Aqua is ideal if you’re after a hit of swim-run action without going the full distance. With a 400m swim and 3km run, it’s a great mid-range challenge that delivers on both scenery and fun. You’ll complete a single lap 400m swim inside the mostly sheltered waters of Wollongong Harbour, supported the whole way by our experienced lifesavers. Calm conditions and a well-marked course make this a great confidence-builder in the open water. Exit the swim on the sand and make a short dash to the transition area, where your runners are waiting. Then it’s time to hit the pavement! The 3km run is a flat, out-and-back route that follows the stunning Blue Mile Coastal Track and adjoining coastal parklands. With ocean views the entire way and a cruisy course underfoot, it’s the perfect setting to enjoy the buzz of the event, soak up the cheers, and sprint (or cruise) your way to the finish. Whether you’re aiming for a quick hit-out or stepping up from the Mini Aqua, the Short Aqua is a satisfying mix of challenge and coastal charm.

The Long Aqua is the signature challenge of the Wollongong Aquathon, an exciting, scenic, and rewarding course that attracts everyone from first-time aquathletes to seasoned competitors. Whether you’re racing solo or teaming up with a mate (tag-team style), it’s all about pushing yourself, soaking up the coastal energy, and having fun along the way. The swim takes place in the mostly sheltered waters of Wollongong Harbour, with two laps of a 450m course totalling 900m. The course is well-marked and fully supported by our experienced lifesavers, making it a safe and enjoyable experience for all levels. After your swim, it’s a quick 50m run across the sand to the designated change area, where you’ll slip into your runners and get set for the second leg. The 7km run is a scenic out-and-back route that showcases the very best of Wollongong’s coastline. You’ll follow the Blue Mile Coastal Track before veering into the peaceful surrounds of Puckey’s Estate Reserve, offering a mix of ocean views, green space, and flat, flowing paths. The course is clearly marked and supported by amazing volunteers the whole way. Finishers earn a well-deserved medal and serious bragging rights, whether you go it alone or as part of a tag team. The Long Aqua is a summer challenge to remember.