Boosting the weight of the Island

By Sheree Hoddinett  

Bribie Island is set to take centre stage on the national sporting calendar this weekend, with the 2025 Australian National Youth & U15 Weightlifting Championships coming to town.  

From October 18-19, the country’s strongest young lifters will gather at Bribie Island State Primary School to test their skills, push their limits and showcase the future of Australian weightlifting in a supportive and family-friendly environment. 

The event will bring together competitors from across the nation, all aged under 15 or under 17, many of whom are already showing the potential to become future Olympians. With an atmosphere that blends excitement, discipline and sportsmanship, the championships promise not only to deliver thrilling lifts but also to inspire the next generation of athletes in the sport. 

The honour of hosting the championships was awarded to Bribie Island Movement & Strength, a club that has steadily grown in reputation within the weightlifting community.  

“Our club, Bribie Island Movement & Strength, has been building a strong reputation in the weightlifting community for many years,” club president Paul Walters explained. “We have hosted successful local and state competitions and we are passionate about supporting youth development in the sport.  

“When the Australian Weightlifting Federation was seeking expressions of interest for a venue for the Youth & U15 Nationals, we knew our club’s facilities, local support and community spirit made Bribie Island an ideal choice.” 

This will be the first time Bribie Island has hosted a national weightlifting championship and it’s a milestone moment for both the club and the wider community. For Bribie Island Movement & Strength, securing the championships is far more than just a major event, it’s an opportunity to showcase everything the community stands for. 

“It’s a huge honour and privilege,” Paul said. “To host a national championship here not only shines a spotlight on our lifters but also puts Bribie Island on the sporting map. We’re proud to welcome athletes, coaches and families from across the country, and we want to show them the warmth and support that defines our community. Hosting is about giving back to the sport and creating an unforgettable experience for everyone involved.” 

Spectators at the event are in for two action-packed days of competition. The championships promise an atmosphere filled with energy, from the intensity of the lifting platform to the cheers of supportive crowds. 

“Visitors can expect an exciting atmosphere, cheering crowds, impressive lifts and plenty of passion from the young athletes,” Paul said. “It’s not just about strength; it’s about discipline, resilience and sportsmanship.” 

With its family-friendly setting, the event welcomes people of all ages. Parents and children alike can enjoy watching some of the nation’s most promising weightlifters in action, learning about the sport and soaking up the excitement. 

Among the athletes competing will be three talented lifters from Bribie. These local representatives have been putting in countless hours of training to prepare for their chance to stand on the national stage. Whether they come away with medals or not, the experience will be invaluable in their sporting journey. 

“Our athletes have been training hard and while we don’t like to make predictions, we know they’ll give it their all,” Paul said. “For us, both our athletes and our club, it’s not just about medals, it’s about experience, growth and making the most of the opportunity to compete against the best in the country.” 

For the athletes, competing at a national championship is a milestone achievement. It represents the culmination of months, if not years, of hard work and dedication. It also goes far beyond individual goals. Performances at this level can also unlock future opportunities.  

“It’s special because they’re not only representing themselves but also their families, coaches and communities. These events build confidence, friendships and memories that last a lifetime,” Paul said. “Strong performances at this level can open doors to further opportunities, including selection for state teams, international development squads and pathways toward representing Australia in future competitions. Nationals are often the stepping stone to bigger things in weightlifting. Qualifying for the 2032 Olympics here in Queensland will be in the forefront of many young athletes' minds.” 

For Bribie Island, hosting the championships is an opportunity not just for sport, but for community pride. Locals are encouraged to come along, cheer for the athletes and be part of the event.  

“It’s not often that Bribie Island gets to host a national sporting championship, so it’s a fantastic opportunity to get behind our young athletes,” Paul said. “We are grateful to the Australian Weightlifting Federation, Queensland Weightlifting Association, our volunteers and local supporters who are making this event possible.” 

2025 Australian National Youth & U15 Weightlifting Championships 

October 18-19 

Bribie Island State School, 31-63 First Avenue.  

For more information, visit www.bimsc.com.au/events