Batemans Bay Clash at the Coast

Host Melanie Kaufmann said at least 65 bodybuilders would compete at the Batemans Bay Soldiers Club, each hoping a tough training and dietary regime will see them qualify for the Australian titles later this year.

That’s a strong boost to last year’s numbers, when more than 40 competitors, some first-timers, took to the stage in men's fitness, physique and bodybuilding divisions and women's fitness, figure and bikini divisions.

The drug-free event is part of the International Natural Bodybuilding Association (INBA) series.

“We have many athletes travelling to the event,” Ms Kaufmann said.

“The best physiques will be showcased on the day, with the top three qualifying to compete at the Australian titles in October.”

Contestants range from those in the bikini model division through to professional body builders.

The eye-catching event has become an annual popular event in the Eurobodalla, drawing hundreds of people each year.

Ms Kaufmann said reaching the stage took serious effort for all contestants.

“They get to showcase their months of training,” she said.

“They have to be so disciplined with diet and exercise.

“There would be at least twice as many people who set out on this journey.

“The guys who have made it are less than half of those who started.

“A lot of people fall off the wagon.

“Every person who gets on that stage on Sunday is a winner in their own right, just for getting there.”

Last year, a panel of five judges rated each contestant and an enthusiastic crowd cheered all day for their friends and family members on stage.  

Rhoda Hummerston did her hometown of Batemans Bay proud when she was crowned Ms Clash at the Coast and Aaron McCormack was awarded Mr Clash at the Coast.

Tickets for Sunday’s event are $40 at the door.

Children aged under 12 are $10.

Doors open at 9am for a 9.30am start and events are expected to continue until 3pm.