Wollongong turned on perfect conditions for the World Triathlon Championship Finals opening ceremony, with the New South Wales south coast city's picturesque harbour awash with colour, sound and patriotism.

Nearly 5,000 athletes from across the globe will compete over the next four days in what organisers say is the biggest annual multi-sport event in the world.

"It's a bit like the Olympics," World Triathlon Championship general manager Mark Emerton said.

" Each country picked a flag bearer, with a sign for the country. "

Australia will field the largest team, comprising 1,500 competitors aged between 18 and 85, including 13 para triathletes.

The US, UK and New Zealand follow close behind, with a Fijian trio the event's smallest squad.

About 800 local volunteers have also signed o

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