A handful of excited young competitors joined members of the organising committee, Chair of the NSW Parliamentary Friends of Surf Life Saving and Member for Oxley Melinda Pavey MP, Kempsey Shire Council Mayor Liz Campbell, and event sponsor Stramit Building Products at the official launch of the Championships at the picturesque Mid North Coast beach.

Preparations for the biggest surf carnival for those living outside the metropolitan areas have been tracking smoothly with an influx of more than 1500 competitors, officials and supporters expected to be welcomed to town throughout the two-day event.

Mayor Liz Campbell believes it is a fantastic chance to highlight not only South West Rocks as a premium tourist destination but the wider MacLeay Valley.

“Both the Kempsey Shire Council and community welcomes the economic boost the Country Championships brings to our local economy. This is great for local businesses and tourism operators, I am confident that that 2017 will be an experience to remember for all visitors and locals alike,” Cr Campbell said.

Defending champions Byron Bay will be gunning for their seventh straight title while their fierce northern rivals Cudgen Headland are keen to close the gap after falling agonisingly short of ending the streak in 2016.

Warilla –Barrack Point and Mollymook will be strong contenders from southern NSW while local clubs including Port Macquarie, South West Rocks, and Wauchope-Bonny Hills will be keen to take advantage of the familiar coastal waters.

This year marks the tenth anniversary for Stramit as naming rights partner of the Country Championships, and it has proved to be a fruitful partnership.

“The Country Championships showcase the incredible abilities and commitment of regional surf life savers with the event covering a wide and varied set of skills,” said Stramit Marketing manager John Bull.

“Their presence on our many beaches allows Australians and visitors to our country enjoy the beach with peace of mind, and it is pleasing to see the growth of the event over the years.”

South West Rocks President Rod McDonagh said the low-turnover in volunteers means that the acquired knowledge gives the club confidence in hosting a successful event.

"We are really fortunate to have a great bunch of committed volunteers who are vital to making this happen. It's a lot of work but we're almost there and looking forward to welcoming everyone to our little patch of paradise," said Mr McDonagh.

“We enjoyed a hugely successful turnout in 2016 and we are confident that everyone will be able to enjoy a great championship next month,” he said.

The 2017 Stramit NSW Country Surf Life Saving Championships will be held at South West Rocks from Saturday, February 5.