Launceston is hosting some of Australia’s promising young badminton players this week as the 2026 YONEX Under 13 and Under 17 Australian National Badminton Championships get underway.
The national championships are bringing together junior athletes from across the country to compete for national titles at the Elphin Sports Centre from 26 September to 2 October.
Tasmanian Minister for Sport Nick Duigan welcomed the athletes, officials and families to the state, saying the championships provide young players with an opportunity to compete against some of the country’s leading junior talent.
“These championships showcase Australia’s emerging badminton talent, giving young athletes the opportunity to test themselves against the nation’s best and gain valuable experience on the national stage,” Mr Duigan said.
He said competitions such as the national championships can provide a pathway towards state, national and international representation.
“It is exciting to welcome the next generation of Australian badminton talent to Launceston and see them compete at this level,” he said.
Tasmanian Minister for Tourism, Hospitality and Events Roger Jaensch said the championships were expected to bring athletes, officials, families and supporters to Northern Tasmania.
“Bringing hundreds of athletes, officials, families and supporters to Launceston is a great boost for the region’s visitor economy,” Mr Jaensch said.
He said visitors attending the championships would have opportunities to explore Northern Tasmania’s food, wine, natural attractions and tourism offerings while they were in the region.
The event forms part of Tasmania’s broader support for sporting and regional events, with the championships providing a national platform for junior badminton while bringing visitors to Launceston.
The 2026 YONEX Under 13 and Under 17 Australian National Badminton Championships will continue at the Elphin Sports Centre until 2 October.
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