Saturday's competition will see clubs from as far north as Blackhead down to Sydney take part, with a number of past and current Australian surf lifesaving champions rostered to compete.

Organiser Mark Watson from Fingal Bay Surf Lifesaving Club said the club will have a contingent of around 30 competing with its best chances in both the craft and beach events.

The hosts are hoping to improve on last year's third place, with 2010 title holders North Avoca back to defend last year's first place finish.

The over 30s competition will draw some big name Australian surf lifesaving champions from clubs such as Killcare, Avoca and Queenscliff.

"The Taplin relay is the event every club wants to win," Mr Watson said.

"It consists of a swimmer, a board paddler with a ski paddler to finish.

"It's an exciting and fast event, and we are expecting the same number of competitors.

"It's a great time to hold our carnival as all competitors have had a big break and need to get back into competition mode with the big three carnivals fast approaching ."

The event will kick start at 9am on Saturday.