For over 25 years, Ironman Australian has been a qualifying event for the Ford Ironman World Championship, held in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii each October. It also serves as the NSW's State Ultra Distance Championship triathlon, and as such is the grand finale of the annual competition for the Greg Welch Trophy. Winning times for Ironman Australia are fast, and those athletes who can combine speed with technical skill will excel. From 2011, Ironman 70.3 Port Macquarie will take place simultaneously with Ironman Australia on the same course, but starting at a later time. Both events in 2011 will see many race enhancements, aiming to improve the pre-race and race day experience. Those enhancements include moving the race action closer to accommodation centers in the heart of Port Macquarie as well as the following: * A one-lap swim course with the transition area located further down river * The race expo, registration, merchandise and Ford Ironman World Championship slot ceremony moved to The Glasshouse Arts Conference and Entertainment Centre * The Carbo and Awards Banquets moved to Oxley Oval * A completely redesigned finish line in the Town Green precinct - between the Rydges Hotel and Hastings River.