 The 2026 Australian Open Tai Chi Championships, held in conjunction with the World Tai Chi and Qigong Day celebrations, took place on 12 April at the Hurstville Aquatic and Leisure Centre in Sydney. The event was organised by the Tai Chi Association of Australia (TCAA), with support from the Georges River Association, and aimed to promote Tai Chi practice while fostering appreciation of traditional Chinese culture within Australia’s multicultural community.TCAA President Sam Miller welcomed participants and guests, highlighting the event’s role as a national gathering celebrating Tai Chi practice, achievement, and community spirit. Distinguished guests in attendance included Mr Wang Yu, Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Sydney, Mr Zhi Soon MP, Ms Ash Ambihaipahar MP, Councillor Ben Wang, Mr Shao Zhao Ming, President of the Kungfu Wushu Association (KWA), representatives from the League of Chinese University Alumni Associations in Australia, and members of the wider community.This year’s competition featured 10 Tai Chi teams and 40 individual competitors. Participants ranged in age from 15 to over 70 years, with women representing the majority of competitors. Competition categories included the 24-Form, 42 Competition Form, Yang Style and Chen Style routines, as well as weapon events such as sword, broadsword, and fan.Following the competition, the World Tai Chi and Qigong Day celebrations highlighted the artistic and health-promoting aspects of Tai Chi practice. Demonstrations included Tai Chi push-hands, practical martial applications, a dragon dance performance, a two-person Tai Chi routine presented by Councillor Wang Bin, and a push-hands demonstration by the Harvey Lee Tai Chi Academy.The success of the event was made possible through the leadership and coordination of Mr Jon Zhou (TCAA NSW Representative and Competition Convenor) and Ms Marina Liao (TCAA Committee Member), together with the support of numerous volunteers and community organisations. The Georges River Association and the Australian Fudan Alumni Association provided valuable volunteer assistance throughout the event.The 2026 Australian Open Tai Chi Championships highlighted the continued growth of Tai Chi practice in Australia and further strengthened multicultural exchange, community wellbeing, and social cohesion.   |