NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the 2023 Annual General Meeting of Triathlon WA will be conducted from 3:00pm to 4.00pm (AWST) on Saturday, 21 October 2023.
We welcome members to arrive in person from 2:00pm for club networking opportunities and to meet our new office staff members.
Members of the Association will be able to attend the meeting in person at the nominated venue below OR online via Microsoft Teams (link provided below).
IN PERSON ATTENDANCE: Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries Conference Room 246 Vincent Street, Leederville 6007 Join us in person from 2:00pm for networking, before a 3:00pm AGM start.
ONLINE ATTENDANCE: Online via Microsoft Teams – Live Event Join the Meeting Online from 3:00pm AWST JOIN HERE
AGENDA: The agenda for the Annual General Meeting can be found HERE.
ATTENDANCE AND VOTING: Pursuant to Rule 21.1 of the Constitution of Triathlon Western Australia Incorporated dated October 2022, each Individual Member and Life Member over the age of 18 years at the time of the Annual General Meeting is entitled to one (1) vote at that Annual General Meeting. No other Member will be entitled to vote.
Pursuant to Rule 22.1, each voting Member is entitled to appoint in writing, a natural person who is also a voting Member of the Association to be the Member’s proxy, and to attend and vote on the Member’s behalf at any General Meeting of the Association. To complete a proxy vote, please complete THIS FORM and return it to the Executive Director no later than 48 hours before the commencement of the meeting.
VOTING PROCEDURE: Voting at the Annual General Meeting will be as per 20.4 of the Constitution of Triathlon Western Australia Incorporated dated October 2022: At any meeting a resolution put to the vote of the meeting will be decided on a show of hands unless a poll is (before or on the declaration of the result of the show of hands) demanded: (1) by the Chair; or (2) by a simple majority of Individual Members.
SPECIAL RESOLUTION LIFE MEMBERS: Pursuant to Rule 8.4 of the Constitution of Triathlon Western Australia Incorporated dated October 2022, the Board may recommend to a General Meeting that any natural person who has rendered distinguished service to Triathlon in Western Australia through the promotion of the interests and objects of the Association be appointed as a Life Member. At the 2023 meeting, there will be two (2) members recommended to be appointed.
BOARD ELECTION: An election for the two (2) vacant Board positions will be in accordance with Rule 25.2(5) of the Constitution of Triathlon Western Australia Incorporated dated October 2022.
Triathlon WA is committed to gender diversity within all levels of the sport in Western Australia, including a balanced representation of gender within its leadership.
October 1st 2023 marked the official start of the WA State Series with the highly anticipated Austal Tiger Snake Triathlon on Garden Island. Hosted by HMAS Stirling, the event drew more than 400 eager athletes ready to tackle the race on the base. This now iconic event helped athletes to shake off the winter cobwebs and put that off-season training to the test.
Early risers were treated to a double rainbow on the drive down to Rockingham, its vibrant colours setting an optimistic tone for the day’s challenges. Passing through the checkpoint and driving over the bridge onto Garden Island was in itself a unique thrill – making athletes and spectators alike feel very privileged to be part of the experience.
The pre-race atmosphere at the Austal Tiger Snake Triathlon was electric. Triathletes, fuelled by both adrenaline and caffeine, were visibly charged up and eager to take on the challenges that lay ahead.
After a humorous briefing, the swim action kicked off. As triathletes plunged into the water for their swim leg, they found themselves in the company of impressive frigates and submarines. Watching the athletes swim against the backdrop of naval vessels tall on the horizon was a visually striking spectacle.
In the Open Men’s category, the leaders emerging from the water were Kurt Wesley (North Coast), Reece Harris (Mandurah), and Nick Thompson (UWA), but it was Harris who seized the lead after a swift T1 transition. Thompson and Matt Burton (Oceanic) showcased their remarkable cycling prowess, closing the gap after the swim with fast-paced cycle legs.
Nick Thompson, the recent Sunshine Coast 70.3 winner, secured the title of State Standard Champion with an impressive and decisive victory, crossing the finish line with a nearly two-minute lead ahead of Matt Burton in second.
Having battled a recent niggle, Kurt Wesley pushed through for a strong performance, ultimately finishing in third place.
Unfortunately, Harris endured a bike crash as he approached T2, dropping him down to 10th place and leaving him with some gnarly cuts and bruises. Undeterred, he displayed remarkable resilience during the run, aggressively closing the gap between himself and the front pack of athletes to finish fourth in the Open field.
Experienced athletes including Simon Billeau, James Lewin, Paul MacKay, and James Martin, along with young-guns Noah Tonkin and Rowan Kerr, rounded out the top 10 positions.
OPEN FEMALES
Aleisha Wesley of North Coast showcased incredible swimming prowess, earning her a substantial lead as she emerged from the water and transitioned into T1 ahead of her fellow elite competitors, including Sian Munks from UWA and Madison Toovey, also from North Coast.
With a sizeable lead, Aleisha Wesley was the first to embark on the bike course. Sian Munks and Madison Toovey followed a few minutes behind, with Khloe Healy (non-member) and Indie Arbuckle (XTR) in pursuit.
Similar to Harris, Toovey picked up a few battle scars from her war with the asphalt after a pretty serious crash during the bike leg. Despite being scraped up, she displayed incredible courage and determination, choosing to persevere through the race and outpacing Munks across the 40km 2 lap course.
In the final stretch and during the run, Aleisha Wesley maintained her impressive pace, securing the title of State Standard Champion with a finishing time of 02:04:00.91. She crossed the finish line with a lead of more than five minutes over her competitors. Adding a personal touch to her victory, Aleisha was greeted at the finish line by her brother and fellow finisher, Kurt Wesley. Their friendly competition for the title of the fastest Wesley on the course was decisively won by Kurt, while Aleisha graciously accepted the result with playful sportsmanship.
Sian Munks showcased a dominating performance during the run leg, propelling herself back into second place for a strong finish. Madison Toovey, just two minutes behind, delivered an inspiring performance, demonstrating remarkable determination and resilience to secure a well-deserved third place in the race on the base.
Khloe Healy crossed the line in fourth place, followed by young-gun Indie Arbuckle in fifth place.
FAMILY MOMENTS:
James Martin shared his 8th place finish line moment hand in hand with his son, and Cid De Carvalho receiving motivational hi-fives from his daughters as he entered the finish chute. Even the littlest fans got in on the excitement, as “Baby Burton” ran around, spreading joy and making new friends.
SHOUT OUTS:
Congratulations and thank you to HMAS Stirling volunteers, staff and event organisers for an excellent race. Thanks also to WA Technical Officials and all athletes that took part in the race on the base.
Three of our elite males also had their dads competing alongside them! Nick and Paul Thompson, Kurt and Dale Wesley, and Reece and Russell Harris. Two generations of athletes!
Huge shoutout to Esperance Triathlon Club making the journey to join in on the State Championships. That’s dedication – and a really long drive!
For Paul Smith, the day held a momentous achievement as he clinched his first State Championship medal.
Local legend Dale Wesley made a triumphant return after a 10-year break, landing in 3rd place for his age group. Talk about making a grand re-entrance!
It was Andrew Lockwood’s first race in the Open category, stepping up from age group.
AGE GROUP STATE STANDARD DISTANCE CHAMPIONS 2023/24
Congratulations to all athletes who competed in the Tiger Snake Classic Triathlon, and to our new State Champions.
The WA triathlon community is buzzing with excitement and anticipation ahead of the Austal Tiger Snake Classic Triathlon this Sunday, 1 October 2023. This race is the first State Series event of the new season, and also doubles as the Standard Distance State Championship.
HMAS Stirling will once again welcome the WA triathlon community to the unique and exclusive Garden Island Naval Base, with triathletes from all over the state are converging for a thrilling showdown.
The Tiger Snake Classic is renowned for its spectacular course including a 1.5km harbour swim with a backdrop of submarines and frigates, and a 40km cycle on completely closed, smooth roads. The 10km run course will take athletes through the wharf precinct before crossing the finish line at the sports pavilion and main oval.
While the windy and wet weather is set to be a test of the competitors resilience, the excited spirit of the community remains undampened.
Best of luck to all athletes competing!!
THE MALE ELITE FIELD PREVIEW
Race morning will kick off with the Open Male wave, which boasts an impressive line up of 22 athletes – many of whom have plenty of experience and a few wins under their belt.
Among them is the recently crowned Sunshine Coast IRONMAN 70.3 Champion, Nick Thompson (UWA), who will certainly put up an excellent fight for top spot.
Matt Burton (Oceanic), James Martin (Mandurah) and Simon Billeau (Stadium) are all known for their impressive cycling skills, meaning they may have an advantage when combatting crosswinds on the cycle course.
Young guns Reece Harris (Mandurah), Daniel Buis (North Coast), Rowan Kerr (XTR), Harry Sinclair (UWA), and non-members Andrew Lockwood, Karl Haugg, Noah Tonkin, and Marcus Wirth will all give the older athletes a run for their money.
Kurt Wesley will be one to watch as he looks to compete with sister and fellow North Coast team mate Aleisha for the fastest Wesley sibling on course.
Tried and true triathletes David Cowlishaw (non-club), Paul Mackay (ADF), James Lewin (Stadium) and fellow competitors Hayden Thorpe (non-member), William Finlay (Perth), Ryan Aberle (non-member), Joshua Fearnley (non-member) and Joseph Laurendi (Mandurah) round out the field.
THE FEMALE ELITE FIELD PREVIEW
A small but strong female field of 6 is set to take on the Tiger Snake course in the second wave of the day, and features some of WA’s best and brightest women in triathlon.
Reigning Open Triathlete of the Year and 2022 Tiger Snake Champion Aleisha Wesley (North Coast) is the top seeded female. With a quick swim and well rounded multisport skills, she may very well take home another win.
Following a third place in this race and some excellent results last season, Sian Munks (UWA) is back to try again for the Tiger Snake crown. Previously a runner, Sian has the skills to really set the pace on the final stretch.
U23 triathletes Indie Arbuckle (XTR) and Madi Toovey (North Coast) both have plenty of race experience behind them. Madi has been focused and consistent in her training so far this season, as she continues her build for her first 70.3 in December, which should shine through in her Tiger Snake performance. Indie has been balancing the high demands of tertiary study alongside her training, but her determination and passion will help drive her on to the finish line.
2023 Busselton 100 third placer and excellent long distance athlete Khloe Healy (non-member) rounds out the female field.
AGE GROUP FIELD PREVIEW
A number of 2022/23 State Champions will be returning to defend their title as Age Group king or queen of Standard Distance.
Victoria Gill (Stadium), Emma Moon (Phoenix), Eve O’Hare (XTR), Ann-Marie Potts (North Coast), Pip Laufmann (Stadium), Lise Ashton (Fremantle), Loic Draoulec (Stadium), Barry Williamson (Mandurah), Andrew Johns (Bunbury), Barry Silverlock (North Coast) will be amongst the contenders for the crown.
The support from family, friends, and fellow triathletes is expected to be a driving force behind the athletes impressive performances as they tackle the course.
If you’re not participating, don’t miss the chance to witness the epic race on the base. Spectators will be treated to a thrilling day of competition, scenic views, and a vibrant atmosphere. So pack your rain gear, your pom poms, and your best cheering voice.
Triathlon WA are seeking applications from passionate and qualified individuals for the role of Coach Development Manager. This is a permanent part time position (0.2 FTE) based in Floreat.
The purpose of the Coach Development Manager is to:
To provide the operational management of the Coaches within TWA programs.
Ability to lead program evolution through excellent communication including the ability to lead through others.
To provide direction and education to coaches with regards to development and best practice standards.
Maintain working relationships and communication flow with Coaches, Triathlon Australia, other STTA representatives as required.
Provide accreditation opportunities for aspiring Coaches through the National Coaching Pathway.
Enhance the coach development pathway to deliver more coaches and build coach knowledge.
APPLICATION PROCESS Applications will need to be submitted to Executive Director, no later than 5:00pm Sunday 1st October 2023. Applications will only be accepted via email to: olivia.birkett@wa.triathlon.org.au
All applications must include the following documents;
Cover letter addressing current experience against outlined Candidate Profile (no longer than 2 pages)
Resume
Enquiries relating to the role can be submitted to the Head of Coach Education at Triathlon Australia, Jesse Mortensen: jesse.mortensen@triathlon.org.au.
Triathlon Western Australia is seeking nominations from interested and suitably qualified individuals to fill two (2) Board Positions commencing in October 2023 (following the TWA AGM on Saturday, 21 October 2023).
To ensure that the Board has the right balance of skills to effectively lead the organisation into the future, TWA is seeking nominations from individuals with a range of qualifications, skills and experience, as outlined in the nomination form. It is also desirable for the Board to encompass diversity in aspects such as gender, age, background and perspective. All interested persons are encouraged to apply
For more information, please contact Olivia Birkett Executive Director, TWA on 08 9443 9778, mobile phone 0404 833 134 or email olivia.birkett@wa.triathlon.org.au.
CANDIDATE SKILL REQUIREMENTS
Skill Set A: Diversity and Inclusion
Experience or skills include but not limited to;
Indigenous engagement
Knowledge of disability sport
Regional WA knowledge
Sport integrity management
Minority group engagement
Skill Set B: Human Resources / People and Culture
Experience or skills include but not limited to;
Experience or skills include but not limited to;
HR Policy development
Best practice HR management systems
Workplace Health and Safety
Executive Coaching/Mentoring
Skill Set C: Information Technology (IT)
Experience or skills include but not limited to;
IT systems/Digital technology
Communications systems
Knowledge/data management
Sport technology
Cyber security
Skill Set D: Legal Experience or skills include but not limited to;
Legal Acumen
Negotiating/Contract Management
Dispute resolution/mediation
In addition to the above, Board Members should have experience within;
Strategic Planning,
Governance,
Risk Management and
Financial Management
Interested candidates are required to demonstrate experience in EITHER Skill Set A or B or C or D. Additional skills listed above are highly desirable.
The Lightning League is a a draft legal race series designed specifically for our Triathlon WA Pathway Program athletes to help build and develop race intelligence, tactical awareness and provide different challenges and stressors than they may normally encounter in standard draft legal racing.
The Lightning League is proudly supported by Carnac.
HOW IT WORKS
There will be three teams: Hurricanes, Cyclones and Tornadoes. WA State Team Athletes will be classified in terms of age and skill development level, and divided fairly amongst the three teams to create a balance of gender, age and ability. Each team will wear a different colour and are racing for points toward their team total. Finishing position determines point score.
Each team will have a dedicated Coach to support and guide them.
Older more experienced athletes who already race Open (i.e. athletes outside of the Pathway Program) will be given the role of Ambassadors, and offer support, mentorship, and race feedback. Ambassadors will also provide race pressure and competition for the U/23 and more developed juniors.
Youth, Junior, and U23 Athletes WA Team will all be racing at the same time regardless of age or gender. There will be a handicap system in place based on a combination of age and race confidence, which will see older and more experienced athletes racing slightly longer distances to create an exciting and dynamic racing outcome.
There are 3 races in the series in total, all at run at Champion Lakes Regatta Centre. There will be an Equalizer format on 21 October 2023 (SBRSBR), a Triple mix on 18 November 2023 (SBR-RBS-RSB) and mixed relays on 9 December 2023 (SBR-tag-SBR). Each race will have a team winner, and a series-winning team will be crowned at the conclusion of race 3.
We sincerely thank Carnac for their support of this initiative, and hope that Lightning League participants will enjoy the process, have fun, and learn important race skills that help them develop in the sport.
Triathlon WA selects a State Team to support WA athlete development and representation at national and international triathlon events. The team is selected for a period of the specified season, in accordance with the Triathlon WA Selection Policy.
The aim of the Pathway program is to provide a nurturing and supportive environment for the development of West Australian athletes aged between 14-23 years, allowing them to maximise their enjoyment and potential in the sport over time. This is achieved by engaging with the network of athletes, parents and home coaches to support each individual to achieve personal excellence and to prepare athletes for the demands of training, competition and travel during the performance pathway.
The TWA Pathway Program is focused on facilitating development opportunities for each athlete in the WA Team (Youth, Junior and U23) in line with the Triathlon Australia National Pathway Network Strategy and Hierarchy of Discriminators. The aim of the program is to help build the athlete’s knowledge and potential through education and skill sessions, and to develop their racing tactics and technical skills through Draft Legal racing opportunities.
Triathlon Western Australia will welcome a new Executive Director, Olivia Birkett, to lead the organisation as we head into the 2023/24 Season.
Birkett will officially commence the role on Monday 31 July 2023.
Triathlon WA President Brenden Koh says the Board are confident that Birkett’s passion, work ethic, and extensive experience will make her an outstanding addition to the organisation.
“Olivia brings with her over 20 years of experience in the sports industry, having held various leadership and board positions including Head of Operations at Tennis West,” he said.
“She is well-versed in managing large budgets, securing funding and grants, and establishing successful commercial partnerships.
“Her strong relationships with stakeholders at both the local and state government levels will be invaluable as we navigate the future of triathlon in Western Australia,” said Koh.
Olivia Birkett holds extensive qualifications including a degree in Human Movement, a Diploma in Venue Management, a Graduate Certificate in Athlete Career Education, and recently completed the Australian Institute of Company Directors course.
Birkett’s leadership skills have been evident in her role as Head of Operations at Tennis West, where she managed a dynamic and diverse team while supporting their personal and professional growth. Her excellent communication and relationship-building skills, combined with her strategic acumen, will be an asset to Triathlon Western Australia.
Triathlon WA sincerely thanks outgoing Executive Director Glenn Te Raki for his work and dedication over the past 10 months. Te Raki was on a fixed-term contract covering maternity leave for former TWA Executive Director Ashleigh Apps, who stepped down from the role earlier this year.
“On behalf of the Board, I would like to express our heartfelt thanks to Glenn Te Raki, who has been instrumental in filling the Executive Director position this past season,” said Koh.
“In particular, he led the delivery of all of our events over another busy season, culminating in the successful Busselton Festival of Triathlon.
“His commitment to the organization has been greatly appreciated and we extend our sincere thanks.”
To support a smooth transition, Glenn will remain in his current capacity until Olivia begins 31 July. After which he will stay on for a period to onboard Oliva, and whilst recruitment takes place cover key event responsibilities related to the recently vacated Commercial Events Operations Manager role.
Western Australia’s Rhianna Hepburn has spent the past year with one goal in mind – the World Junior Triathlon Championships in Hamburg.
Last year, the teenager had fulfilled automatic qualification for the Australian Junior team for the World Championships in Montreal, only to be forced to withdraw from the team after a training accident – not even getting to the start line.
This week, she’ll don the cherished green and gold triathlon suit at the World Junior Triathlon Championships in Hamburg.
Hepburn has been on the Australian Junior Team’s 2023 European Tour this past fortnight in a pre-World Championships Staging Camp in Osnabruck in the Netherlands – nestled between Holten, where they raced last weekend, and Hamburg.
Holten proved to be more than just a successful lead up for the Aussies with Hepburn winning the 2023 Europe Triathlon Junior Cup and and Brisbane’s 19-year-old Jack Crome men’s Europe Triathlon Junior Cup race. While Brad Course (QLD) unleashing an impressive second-place place finish in the Elite race.
Australia will field a seven-strong Junior team in Hamburg – four men, Course, Crome, Tom Feldman (QLD) and Mitchell Blackbourn (NSW) and three women; Hepburn, Emma Olson-Keating (NSW) and Alex Field (NSW).
Triathlon Australia’s National Talent Development Coach, Brendan Sexton reflected on the incidents that dashed the hopes of Hepburn on the eve of this week’s Worlds and the lessons of a European tour.
“Rhianna was again an automatic qualifier for the team this year in the Oceania Championship race in Taupo (NZ) and she was able to build her form through to Holten last week,” said Sexton.
“It was her first international race, and she is trying to learn as much she can and to take as much from her teammates as she can, and she is ready to put her best foot forward in Hamburg.
“Rhianna was right up the front in Holten knowing her weapon is her run after being able to put herself in the race from the get-go.
“She was also able to hold her own in the Oceania Cup race in Busselton with the Elites earlier this year and that experience will put her in good stead in Hamburg.
“To have this group of girls who push each other in training, they’re only making each other stronger.
“It’s a real plus for us to have three girls in Rhianna, Alex and Emma who are that strong as a team and not only wanting to get the best out of themselves but to get the best out of each other as an Australian team.”
Hepburn said she had no expectations ahead of her international debut in Holten last weekend.
“To be in the front pack on the bike and to be able to run down most of the girls was a bit of a confidence boost in my first international race as well,” she said.
“It was totally different to any races I had done before so that was fun; there was no expectation or goal in what place I wanted to cross the line so to win was nice.
“I’m looking forward to the experience in Hamburg. To contest my first Junior Worlds will be awesome. To go out there and enjoy it is my main goal.”
Along with their individual Junior Worlds Championships, the Australians will field a team of four from the Junior Team in Saturday’s World Under 23/Junior Mixed Relay World Championship.
You can catch the action from the Women’s Junior World Championship on Friday, July 14, from 12:50 AM AEST on TriathlonLive.
Triathlon Western Australia would like to advise all members and competitors that the date for 2024 Busselton 100 will now be Sunday 5 May 2024, with the Busselton Foreshore Triathlon and Kids Triathlon moving to Saturday 4 May 2024.
Participant safety is our main priority. The decision to change the date was not made lightly and was based on the safety concerns raised by the community, athletes, event staff, and the City of Busselton. Confirming this new date will improve the participant experience, improve road safety, and help our event be more cohesive with the local Busselton community.
In our post-event participant survey, many athletes commented on the number of cars on the road during the bike leg. The City of Busselton has grown its population in recent years which means increased local traffic, and more residents and businesses impacted by our event road closures. Additionally, more families moving to Busselton means the winter sports season is busier than ever, with parents driving kids to and from their Saturday morning sports around the time most bikes would hit the course.
Having the Foreshore and Kids events on the Saturday instead of the Busselton 100 will allow us to better manage the increased traffic and improve safety, as these events are much shorter (distance and timewise) and contained to the main event area. This is as opposed to the Busselton 100 bike leg, which is 80km, heads out into the Ludlow Tuart Forest, and has hundreds of athletes on course for several hours. Families competing in the Kids Triathlon and Foreshore Triathlon may be more likely to stay on for Sunday and spectate during the Busselton 100, which in turn will improve the event atmosphere and make for a better finish line experience for our long course athletes.
Additionally, the Busselton 100 being on Sunday means that athletes will now check their bikes in on Saturday afternoon after the Foreshore and Kids events have ended. Busselton 100 and AquaBike athletes will no longer have to come straight from work on Friday afternoon or take unnecessary time off from work before the event. We hope this will make for a more relaxed and enjoyable race.
With more than 9 months to go until event weekend, any athletes who have already made accommodation arrangements based on the previously announced date should be able to alter them now with no penalty.
Thank you for your support of the event, and we hope to see you down in beautiful South-West WA for another amazing Busselton Festival of Triathlon. Event registrations are set to open September 2023.
