AN OPEN LETTER FROM THE NSW TRIATHLON CEO, ADAM WICKS
Where has your membership money been invested this season?
As the season draws to a close, and winter arriving faster than we’d have liked, we take the opportunity to share, openly and transparently, where your membership has been invested.
It’s the question heard poolside after a hard set, mid-run, or over coffee after a long ride: What is my membership money used for? It’s a critical question and one we are always happy to answer.
Behind every start line this season…there was investment. Not always visible – but always present. Every club and commercial event across NSW is sanctioned through the AusTriathlon system. Behind that process are people – staff, technical officials and volunteers – working to make events safe, compliant, and successful.
Cathie Ross and Dave Williams have worked closely with clubs and event organisers to ensure each race meets strict safety frameworks. Our staff have provided oversight, risk management, insurance compliance, and alignment with national and international standards. Whether you raced in Sydney or regional NSW, you stood on a start line that had been carefully supported, reviewed, and delivered with your safety in mind. Our Technical Officials, led by Sue Horsburgh, have ensured qualified technical support, enforcing rules, ensuring safety and educating newbies around what’s expected at a triathlon.
Clubs – the heartbeat of our sport – continued to be supported.
Throughout the season, membership revenue has underpinned club development, governance support and local delivery. With the appointment of Kelly Collins as Clubs, Membership and Partnerships Manager, clubs continue to have a dedicated point of contact – someone to guide, support, and strengthen their operations.
From constitutions and compliance to child safety and sustainability, this work often goes unseen – but it’s what keeps the sport thriving week to week.
Because many triathlon journeys don’t begin on race day. They begin at a club.
Programs like Finish Lines…Not Finish Times have introduced hundreds of new participants – particularly women – to the sport, connecting them directly into clubs and coaching environments.
These initiatives are intentionally designed to make triathlon more welcoming and inclusive.
Because the future of our membership depends on who feels they belong today!
High performance and pathways continued to grow and thrive.
From junior participation through to elite development, our pathway system remains a priority.
Under Robyn Low Hart’s leadership, the State Pathway Program has again delivered one of the strongest systems in the country. This season included increased draft-legal racing opportunities, camps, clinics, masterclasses, and education.
Not every member is chasing elite results – but many value being part of a sport that supports those junior athletes who harbour these ambitions. As we look toward LA 2028 and Brisbane 2032, maintaining a strong pipeline is critical.
And then there’s the invisible layer: protection. Membership includes personal accident insurance – something most athletes hope they never need but rely on when it matters. In a sport with inherent risk, this protection is essential. It’s easy to overlook – until you need it.
I could write much more – but I know how busy our community is. And truthfully, you’d probably rather be out swimming, riding, or running – confident that you’re supported and protected while you do.
I finish by flagging that your membership will be up for renewal from 1 July 2026, and I sincerely hope you choose to continue your journey with AusTriathlon, NSW Triathlon, and your local club.
Our organisation only exists because of our members. It’s how we financially remain sustainable, able to employ staff and support the ecosystem.
In return of your membership money, we make this commitment: Your membership will continue to be invested – into a stronger system, a connected community, and a sport that is evolving, inclusive, and genuinely special. Look forward to seeing you on a start line in Season 26/27.
