Event Organnisers Guide

Marathon Swimming Australia recognises the vital role that event organisers play in the growth, safety and diversity of open water swimming across Australia. From long-standing iconic swims to emerging community events, organisers are central to creating meaningful opportunities for swimmers to challenge themselves and connect with the sport.

MSA exists to support organisers by providing clear standards, nationally recognised pathways for inclusion, and a trusted framework that protects both swimmer safety and the integrity of results.

We strongly encourage event organisers to engage with us early, whether you are planning a new event, evolving an existing one, or seeking recognition within the Australian Long Swims Database.

Early conversations help ensure clarity, alignment and smooth recognition, and allow us to work collaboratively to support your event and its participants.

Eligibility for Recognition

Events seeking inclusion must:

  • involve open water swims of 10km or more

  • operate under recognised marathon swimming rules

  • maintain appropriate safety, officiating and timekeeping standards

  • produce verifiable results

Recognition applies to events, not individual ratification.

Rules and Safety Expectations

Event organisers are expected to:

  • apply recognised marathon swimming principles

  • ensure swimmer safety through appropriate risk planning

  • appoint competent officials and timekeepers

  • clearly communicate rules to participants

Events must be conducted in a manner consistent with integrity, fairness and swimmer welfare.

Documentation Required

To submit an event for recognition, organisers must provide:

  • official results (including swimmer names, distances and times)

  • confirmation of rules applied

  • safety and officiating overview

  • any relevant supporting information for unusual conditions or formats

Review and Listing

Submitted events are reviewed by MSA to confirm eligibility. Approved events:

  • are listed in the Australian Long Swims Database

  • contribute to Australia’s marathon swimming history

  • provide swimmers with recognised, credible results

Working With MSA

MSA welcomes early engagement with event organisers and encourages collaboration to ensure clarity, safety and appropriate recognition.

For questions or submissions, please contact Marathon Swimming Australia.