2026 In-House Competition: Preliminary Level and Above
Darwin Ice Skating Centre is pleased to announce the 2026 In-House Skating Competition.
A variety of competition categories are available for skaters of all levels. A skater’s highest test level passed at the close of entries will determine the categories they are eligible to enter. Skaters may enter multiple categories where eligible.
Competition Details
Date: Friday 14 August 2026, from 5pm
Entry Fee: $50 per skater, per category
Eligibility
Competitors must:
- Be enrolled in Term 3 group lessons if they reside in Darwin.
- Skaters who do not reside in Darwin are not required to be enrolled in Darwin Ice Skating Centre group lessons.
Judges: Accredited judges invited from interstate
Medals: Gold, Silver, and Bronze will be awarded to the top three places.
Photography and Videography
Parents and guardians may photograph or video only their own skater.
Skills Category
Levels
- Preliminary
- Elementary
- Intermediate Novice
Please refer to the communications and technical documents available through Ice Skating Australia, or speak with your coach for guidance.
Private coaching lessons are generally required to assist with routine development at these levels.
Skaters may compete in only one skills level, which must be the highest test level they have passed by the competition entry closing date.
Program Requirements
- Feathers and props are not permitted.
Program Length
| Level | Music Time |
| Preliminary | 1 minute 30 seconds ± 10 seconds |
| Elementary | 2 minutes ± 10 seconds |
| Intermediate Novice | 2 minutes 30 seconds ± 10 seconds |
Dress Requirements
Skaters may wear a costume of their own choice.
Solo and Duo Categories
These categories are open to all skaters.
Competitors will compete within their own level and will need to wear an appropriate skating outfit, costume, or unitard.
These events are judged on overall presentation and audience appeal. Judges will be looking for skaters who:
- Interpret and connect with their music;
- Engage with the audience;
- Demonstrate confidence and performance quality; and
- Present an enjoyable and entertaining routine.
While artistic programs are encouraged, this is not an artistic event. Technical difficulty is not the primary judging criterion.
Program Requirements
Program Length
- 1 minute 30 seconds ± 10 seconds
Jumps and Spins
- Maximum of 4 jumps
- Maximum of 2 spins
All elements should be performed confidently and should complement the music and overall presentation.
Duos
Depending on entry numbers, Duo entries may be judged separately from solo competitors.
Props
Props are permitted provided they can be carried onto the ice without assistance.
A deduction will apply if any part of a costume or prop falls onto the ice during the performance.
The following are prohibited:
- Feathers;
- Fire;
- Dry ice;
- Any material that may damage, contaminate, or alter the ice surface; and
- Any other hazardous materials.
Preparing Your Program
Whether competing in the Skills Category or the Solo and Duo Categories, the usual preparation process is:
- Select your preferred music (please provide two options).
- Ask a coach to assist with music editing (fee: $30).
- Book private coaching lessons to develop your routine:
- $55 for a 30-minute lesson during public skating sessions; or
- $65 for a 30-minute lesson during session breaks.
- Take advantage of the school holidays to get a head start on routine development and competition preparation.
- We encourage the competitors to participate in the practice sessions during Term 3 to help them practise and refine their program routines.
Registration
Please complete the registration form via the link below and register your interest by Sunday 28 June 2026.
Registration Link: https://forms.gle/8M1KhexKMnQfHtDY7
