Australia celebrates International Biathlon Day with record participation

Biathlon communities across Australia came together on 30 and 31 May to celebrate International Biathlon Day 2026, introducing new participants to the sport while bringing together athletes, families, volunteers, and supporters for a weekend of fun and activity.

In Canberra, participants of all ages and abilities enjoyed laser biathlon and roller skiing sessions at Stromlo Forest Park, with activities extending into Sunday to accommodate additional interest.

“It was terrific to see so many people of all ages enjoying International Biathlon Day in the national capital,” said Paul Garai, President of Australian Defence Force Biathlon.

“From first-time juniors to masters and also para biathlon, everyone really enjoyed what this great sport offers.”

Sydney also embraced the celebrations, hosting a variety of International Biathlon Day activities across the weekend. While heavy rain earlier in the week forced the cancellation of a planned .22 shooting session at the Anzac Range in Malabar, organisers quickly adapted by holding an indoor firearms safety briefing. The session provided participants with valuable knowledge and discussion around safe shooting practices.

Once the weather cleared, three roller ski and laser biathlon sessions were successfully delivered across Sydney, welcoming around 50 participants in total.

At St Leonards Park on Sydney’s Lower North Shore, 20 school-aged students took part in a fun-filled introductory session supported by coaches and volunteers. Two additional sessions at The King’s School attracted another 30 participants, including many trying biathlon for the first time alongside experienced athletes continuing their training.

The enthusiasm from newcomers was one of the highlights of the weekend. Ten-year-old Cooper, who experienced roller skiing for the first time, summed up the excitement perfectly.

“This is so much fun,” he said. “The roller skiing is hard to balance but the shooting is so much fun!”

His father, Rex, enjoyed the experience just as much and is already planning to return. Greta, who had previously only experienced downhill skiing, quickly embraced the challenge of biathlon and said her favourite part of the day was taking part in the relay races.

Adding to the festive atmosphere were specially themed International Biathlon Day lolly bags, complete with bullet-shaped lollies and white & chocolate marshmallows, which proved to be a hit with participants of all ages.

The weekend highlighted the growing interest in biathlon across Australia and demonstrated the sport’s unique ability to bring together people. From first-time participants discovering laser biathlon and roller skiing to experienced athletes giving a helping hand to those who are new, International Biathlon Day showcased the welcoming and inclusive spirit of the biathlon community.

Biathlon Australia thanks all athletes, coaches, volunteers, clubs, supporters and most importantly the International Biathlon Union who helped make International Biathlon Day 2026 such a success.