Masters Swimming Australia – 50th Anniversary “Unsung Heroes” Awards Announcement
As part of the Masters Swimming Australia (MSA) 50th Anniversary Celebrations in 2025, we are proud to launch our 50 Unsung Heroes Awards. MSA is excited to announce that we are in fact recognising 53 outstanding “Unsung Heroes”.
The MSA Board created this award to honour those remarkable individuals who have given exceptional volunteer service to our sport, their clubs and their communities over many years. To get to this point we invited our States and Territory, clubs and members to nominate people who embody the true spirit of “I am a Swimmer’ and the volunteerism that underpins our great sport and movement. And we’d therefore like to extend our sincere thanks to our States and Territory partners too for their support in reviewing nominations and confirming our 53 “Unsung Heroes” AND to those members and clubs who nominated our “Unsung Heroes”!
The dedication shown by these 53 “Unsung Heroes” (and all) volunteers across Australia has enriched Masters Swimming in countless ways and fostered an enduring sense of community. MSA is deeply grateful for everything our “Unsung Heroes” have contributed, and we are thrilled to begin celebrating each one and their story of giving.
From Monday 17 November, we will begin sharing the first six of these inspiring stories, with new stories to follow twice a week in the coming weeks.
This is a true grassroots MSA Community Award – created to honour the individuals whose commitment, generosity and passion have helped Masters Swimming grow and thrive over the past 50 years.
MSA is delighted to extend our heartfelt CONGRATULATIONS and sincere gratitude to:
| Date of announcement | Name | Club | State or Territory | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 16/12/2025 | Peter Tindale | Geelong Swimming Club Masters | MSV | Peter ran the initial Masters information session to explain the concept and encourage sign ups at Geelong SC, has been the point of contact for new enquiries and has since voluntarily run the three sessions on offer per week. He has introduced members to Open Water swimming, some for the first time, in a safe and encouraging way, organised weekly coffee catch ups / breakfasts for members and worked with his friend Tom and GSC to coach and mentor the group. To say the group would not run without him is the truth. Peter has created an inclusive environment, where members of all ages and abilities (from university students through to Seniors), feel welcome and enthusiastic to engage in squad swimming. |
| 16/12/2025 | Philip Tyrell | Hobart Aquatic Masters | MST | Philip (Phil) is a highly organised person and goes about the work he does in a quiet, methodical way and he is a person of integrity and a respected member of our organisation. Phil joined with his first event being the Nationals in Hobart in 2005 so it was fitting he was on the Organising Committee for the 2015 Nationals and the 2023 National Championships Convenor. Lead his club to winning the Winter Championships on four occasions and the Summer Championships on eight occasions and his strength was in both competing and organising the relays for his club, claiming one Swimmer of the Meet SC. |
| 16/12/2025 | Haydn Valle | Darwin STINGERS Masters | MSNT | Swimming has always been a part of Haydn’s life, and one of the best ways to connect with the local community and he has been an active member of the masters swimming in NT as Darwin Stingers President, Territory Recorder and on the MSNT OWS Sub-Committee. Haydn was heavily involved in the 2024 MSA National Championships and the time, energy, and complexity involved in organising such an event opened his eyes to the realities of event management and seeing club members from across Darwin come together and contribute to a fun-filled week will remain one of his fondest memories. Haydn is a current board member for Swimming NT, and an advocate for the interest of master’s swimmers through initiatives like a dual sanctioned events calendar and sharing resources. |
| 16/12/2025 | Nigel Van Reyk | Lane Cove Masters | MSNSW | At club level, Nigel has been an active member and driving force, bringing the Lane Cove Club back life over the past years as Club Captain and a Board Member of LCMSC in July 2019 positions he still holds and he has also been instrumental in in growing the club over the past few years. Nigel promoted the concept of ‘roll up and swim’ at BPS Meets that saw the club progress up through the divisions and finally won the average points and overall BPS Average Club Points Score for 2024. Nigel selflessly gives his time and expertise for the betterment of Masters Swimming at club, state and national level, his involvement has benefited Masters swimming (club, State and National) with his assistance behind the scenes, officiating at countless BPS and State meets and as with most board members, Nigel works behind the scene, getting the job done without fuss and often without recognition. |
| 16/12/2025 | John Watson | Brisbane Southside Masters | MSQ | John is an unsung hero. He is the ‘ salt of the earth’, long experience coaching Masters swimmers, he is the fountain of wisdom that BSM has benefitted from for many years. John has been doing an exceptional job in keeping the club moving and alive, as he assists every swimmer in the water, but also sits with them at coffee break in order to listen to feedback John strongly believes in satisfaction in seeing all swimmers achieve their individual goals whatever they maybe, knowing that he has been instrumental in contributing to their success. He says: IF THEY ARE HAPPY, SO AM I. |
| 11/12/2025 | Daniel Stampa | North Mackay Sinkers Masters | MSQ | As President of the North Mackay Sinkers for eight years, Dan helped grow the club to be the third largest in Queensland. He drives outreach through media, blogs, and public events, and contributes to Masters Swimming Queensland’s Community Care Program. Dan has been involved in raising over $63,000 for causes like MS Queensland, youth mental health, and children’s charities, he has led club involvement in community events and secured a $20,000 grant for timing equipment shared across regional open water swim events. Dan is a rare individual whose impact spans every facet of Masters Swimming—competition, inclusion, health, fundraising, and community and he leads with quiet determination and deep commitment, always focused on how swimming can bring people together and improve lives. |
| 11/12/2025 | Luke Stephens | MH2O Masters | MSV | As the former president of the MH2O Swimming Club, Luke was the driving force behind its survival and remarkable growth, it was Luke's leadership and sheer determination that secured vital lane space and, almost singlehandedly, navigated the club through this perilous period of Covid19, preventing its premature closure His enthusiasm proved infectious, fostering a resilient community spirit that ensured the club not only endured but thrived. Luke continues to be an integral part of the club's fabric, serving diligently as Club Registrar, Committee Member, and Club Merchandise Officer and he has managed the Club’s website almost singlehandedly and contributes energetically to the Social Subcommittee |
| 11/12/2025 | Michelle Stonehouse | Sunshine Coast Masters | MSQ | Michelle has always been the one who has gone that extra mile for Sunshine Coast, behind the scenes administrative work or being a leading example, in giving a 100% to competing in all events, even if it is not her cup of tea, she is there for the club. She has shown support and encouragement to all members. Her calm deposition has been a steady hand at all the meets our members attend. She is the epitome of the ethos Masters swimming is trying to inspire |
| 11/12/2025 | Megan Stronach | Hobart Dolphins | MST | Since taking over the as State President Megan has worked hard to reinvigorate the MST by revisiting the States Strategic Plan to identify areas where State activities could be best focused and areas that needed more attention. Megan has a special, interest in Coaching leading to her inclusion on the National Coaching committee, at a State level she has organised a number of specialist workshops for coaches and swimmers around the Tasmania and she has also been very proactive in encouraging potential coaches to gain MSA coaching qualifications and continuing their professional education. Megan is both an ideas person and a person of action who is continually thinking of ways in which Masters Swimming in Australia can be improved and then moving quickly to implement those ideas. |
| 11/12/2025 | Pauline Tauschke | Darwin STINGERS Masters | MSNT | Pauline assisted with the accounting side of the 2007 MSA Nationals in Darwin and has come full circle with assisting with the 2024 Nationals in Darwin. Pauline was Darwin Stingers club captain when it was discovered she was an accountant and after a number of years of being asked if she would take up the role of Treasurer she finally agreed She started with cheques and paper records, now it is all electronic and she has implemented EFT and use of an accounting package, successfully changing banks was also an accomplishment and she was appointed Public Officer at the last AGM in 2024. |
| 11/12/2025 | Mendelt Tillema | Talays Masters | MST | Although Mendelt has an impressive list of positions held at both State and club level, he is always keen to offer his services of other tasks at both State and national level and he still manages to compete and offer his time on the pool deck. Mendelt is very supportive of all members of the club and is very much the 'unsung hero' and he is both reliable and organised. Mendelt is a very generous person and many of the club have enjoyed his hospitality at the many committee meetings at his home and some have ventured to Orford for the pizza days. |
| 8/12/2025 | Stephen Richards | Hobart Dolphins | MST | Steve fulfills the role of the Masters Coach in so many ways, volunteering his time in supporting, encouraging and mentoring others which is reflected by providing weekly sessions with programs within the framework of his annual coaching plan. Steve is working toward understanding the role of Meet Director and is being mentored by others. Steve coaches with enthusiasm and delivers his knowledge effectively to suit the various needs and understanding of members and he has a sense of humour and accepts all feedback graciously. |
| 8/12/2025 | Patricia Robinson | Rackley Swim Team Masters | MSQ | Trish’s (Patricia) vibrant personality and unwavering enthusiasm make her a valued member of Rackley and she is always the first to raise her hand to help—whether it’s supporting club activities or volunteering with Masters Swimming Queensland (MSQ).Her longstanding involvement with MSQ has equipped her with a wealth of knowledge in all aspects of swimming, including racing, timekeeping, and check starting and her expertise and willingness to share it make her an invaluable asset to our community. Throughout the Masters calendar, Trish is a familiar and inspiring presence—whether she’s competing in the pool or dedicating her time on pool deck to support others, despite facing her fair share of injuries over the years, Trish’s passion for swimming never wavers and her resilience and commitment are truly remarkable. |
| 8/12/2025 | Warren Robotham | Miami Masters | MSQ | Warren is a quiet achiever and since joining the Miami Masters in 1997, he has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the club and has dedicated countless hours to both hands-on projects and behind-the-scenes coordination. As a highly skilled Builder by profession, Warren has led and managed two major club building projects, firstly the construction of the former Miami Masters clubhouse known affectionately as Lane 11 and secondly, the recent refurbishment of the former Miami Aquatic Centre manager’s residence to become a clubhouse which Miami Masters shares with the Miami Swimming Club. Warren’s leadership of these two projects sees both the Miami Swimming Club and Miami Masters Swimming Club enjoy well-appointed spaces for social and official activities, both which have greatly enhanced social unity and spirit amongst the club members. |
| 8/12/2025 | Pete Sharman | Tuggeranong Masters | MSNSW | Pete has consistently dedicated his time to managing the medal table at State and National events and has in the past assisted the meet recorder with recording times into the timing system, often working behind the scenes to ensure smooth operations. Pete provides a positive impact not only to his club, but to MSNSW and Masters Swimming Australia as a whole and what Pete does for other people he does out of generosity without seeking the recognition or fame. Pete also likes to perform his music and show off his talents and he even sang the National Anthem at the 2006 Nationals in Canberra with the Governor General so impressed with his performance that he mentioned that it made everyone lift in their seats after his performance, people can always trust that Pete will be there to help out wherever he can |
| 8/12/2025 | Owen Sinden | Campbelltown AUSSI Masters | MSNSW | In the 20 years, Owen has held several roles such as President, Race Secretary and Vorgee E1000 recorder at Campbelltown and most recently being elected as secretary. Owen shows this willingness to help at club days, BBQ Fundraiser days and club carnivals. He truly embodies the ethos of Masters Swimming and encompassing that swimming is for life. He is so humble with what he achieves in the pool and does it with a gracious presence, he praises other members who have awesome swims and is always there to help pick members up when they didn't have the best swim. |
| 8/12/2025 | Clare Somerville | Sunshine Coast Masters | MSQ | Clare has held the position of President for 7 years and has continually worked on ways to reach out to new members and provide incentives for members to be able to compete at swim meets. Clare introduced a subsidy for members who pay for accommodation when travelling overnight to a swim meet, she also introduced a payment for drivers who carpool to swim meets and obviously to support these initiatives the club is involved with various fund raising activities, so Clare keeps an eye out for opportunities. Clare remains in touch with older members who are no longer as active within the club and the club has a lovely social group which includes non and past masters swimmers and Clare's friendly nature and support of the monthly lunches contributes to the group. |
| 4/12/2025 | Brendan McMahon | Launceston Lemmings Masters | MST | Shortly after joining the Club, Brendan accepted the role of Club Treasurer and although he had little experience of the role, he enthusiastically embraced all aspects of the role and actively sought advice from suitably qualified club members to streamline the accounting practices for the club. He successfully introduced a cashless system for the payment of pool session fees, greatly reducing the workload for himself and other members not having to handle cash at the pool and he has also been instrumental in updating and maintaining the club's web page and social media profile. Brendan goes out of his way to ensure new members are introduced to club members at training sessions and by advising the committee and coaches when new members will be attending their first training session. |
| 4/12/2025 | Warren Midgley | Toowoomba Masters | MSQ | Warren resumed swimming after a long break and immediately became involved fully in Toowoomba and he took on the role of newsletter editor where he has regularly put together an informative and entertaining newsletter for members. He qualified as a deck person and volunteers standing on deck each month as "deckie", which is a requirement of the contract with the clubs pool. Warren volunteers his time and expertise in swimming as well as being a valuable member of the committee assisting with the formation of important documents and best of all he has an easy approachable manner and is always willing to listen and help. |
| 4/12/2025 | Jim Milne | Yarra Roughies Masters | MSV | Only a couple of years after joining the club in 2004, Jim was nominated for Treasurer at the 2005/2006 AGM and was duly voted in and Jim held the Treasurer position until November 2024, when he finally "retired" from the committee. Jim is one of the most highly respected and liked members of our club, and is missed when he takes short breaks from training. In his time with the club, Jim has been an avid MSV / MSA competition participant, currently the clubs lead competitive swimmer and he voluntarily takes on the role of "competition captain", gathering competitive swimmers together for meets, and engaging with non-competitive swimmers to encourage them to 'have a go'. |
| 4/12/2025 | Geraldine O'Toole | Malvern Marlins | MSV | On joining Malvern Marlins in 2001, Geraldine undertook training to become a Swimming Official and since then, over a period of more than 23 years, she has officiated at Club, Interclub, State and National meets, as well as the 2008 World Masters Championships in Perth. As a regular participant in the Vorgee E1000 program, Geraldine has often swum and/or timed other swimmers outside of the club-organised session in order to help club members complete their programmes. Geraldine often takes photographs at the various club events and goes to great lengths to distribute printed copies of these to those involved and she is a kind-hearted member of the Marlins, a worthy recipient of an ‘Unsung Hero’ award. |
| 4/12/2025 | Richard Poulter | Heidelberg Flyers | MSV | Richard has been Treasurer of Heidelberg Flyers for the last 20 years (note that the club has only been going for 30 years) and Richard has kept the club financially sound in a very changing environment and through some difficult times and has managed the evolving regulatory requirements relating to a small not-for-profit sporting club. Richard is the type of person who works quietly in the background to enable club members to get the most out of swimming and out of their club membership. As Richard is not someone who seeks the limelight and works mostly behind the scenes, we feel this type of award would be a perfect reflection of the effort he has made over 20 years to make Heidelberg Flyers and its members successful in fitness, fun and friendship |
| 4/12/2025 | Hans Preiss | Campbelltown AUSSI Masters | MSNSW | Hans has been a vital member of Campbelltown Masters Club for 30+ years, is always willing to go an extra mile for the club and as Treasurer he ensures all the finances are in order for the club and seeks to find the best possible options for the club. He forms part of the backbone of the Bunnings BBQ Fundraiser team that they have at Campbelltown, first one to put his hand up to offer to cook the BBQ, order and pick up the sausages and ensure everything is in place and with Hans doing this, it ensures the BBQ events run smoothly and are profitable for the club. Although he may not attend swimming carnivals, he shows up every weekend to the club days and is always willing to help, and he tries his best in every one of his swims and participates in the Vorgee E1000 program |
| 1/12/2025 | Diane Gregory | Hobart Dolphins | MST | Di has volunteered her time and services in many ways to MST and the Dolphins Club including revising and updating the Club Constitution, Club Life Member Guidelines and Club Committee Roles. Prior to 2021 Di was an active competitor participating in State and National MSA events, Di now maintains swim fitness at regular Club sessions. Di leads by example in and out of the water and set up and liaised with Migrant Resource Centre with view to introducing migrants to Masters Swimming and was instrumental in setting up with MSA the Transition to Masters pilot program. |
| 1/12/2025 | Wendy Ivanusec | Noosa Masters | MSQ | Wendy has tirelessly served and participated actively in Noosa masters since joining. Wendy has written the clubs monthly newsletter for close to 20 years and also a regular volunteer in our fund-raising activities and is recognised for her selfless contribution to the Noosa community. Wendy is a valuable and exemplary contributor as a timekeeper and participant in Noosa’s successful Vorgee E1000 swimming program for many years. |
| 1/12/2025 | Greg Lewin | Ryde Masters | MSNSW | Greg has been a member of Masters Swimming for many years and at club level he has been a constant presence - as club secretary and board member and then club coach. Greg has mentored many coach’s giving them invaluable on-deck experiences and recently has giving up his personal time to volunteer with NSW country coaching programs. Greg has given his time freely and he’s been a quiet achiever, never looking for any accolade and he has particularly been an important part of other members growth and development - from swimmers achieving their best to officials and coach’s gaining experience and valuable guidance. |
| 1/12/2025 | Diana Maddalozzo | Darwin STINGERS Masters | MSNT | Diana has had many roles: Darwin Stingers Merchandising Officer, Registrar for Darwin Stingers and MSNT and now dual role of Secretary and Registrar for both the Territory and Club. As Secretary and Registrar, Diana serves as the backbone of both Territory and Club operations, providing essential administrative management that keeps the organization running smoothly and her role extends far beyond paperwork – she serves as a link between the organization and its members, providing information and guidance to members and interested newcomers. Throughout all events and meets, Diana assists with member participation, entry processes, and ensures clear communication of event details to participants. |
| 1/12/2025 | Ewen McDonald | Tattersalls Club Swimming | MSNSW | Ewen has made swimming great again! Although Ewen might not have the tenure of some of the bigger clubs or the squad numbers what he does have is care for his swimmers and all those who compete for Tattersalls Swimming. Tattersalls was hurting like many after Covid19 but under the guidance and goal setting of coach Ewen they were able to recently enter their largest ever team for a MSA event. In addition to supporting and encouraging members, Ewen has been instrumental in bringing another 4 ladies into the club so Tattersalls have their first all-female relay team and will continue to build upon this growth in female membership and MSA competitors. |
| 1/12/2025 | Mark McDonald | Blacktown City Masters | MSNSW | Throughout Mark’s time in his position as President, he has encouraged the growth of Blacktown masters, specifically with an increase of swimmers in the younger age groups all whilst encouraging team mates to become officials. Mark is a highly organised person with a wealth of knowledge and a passion for swimming and he loves helping others, inspiring them in all areas of swimming. Mark sees the importance of all of the programs offed by Masters swimming and encourages participation across all of them – Vorgee E1000, 50x50x50 (MSA 50th Anniversary program), carnivals, relays, postal swims, training and social events. |
| 27/11/2025 | Eric Edgeworth | Ipswich City Masters | MSQ | Eric has been a member of Ipswich City Masters Swimming Club for over 30 years and the president for many years. As the president, Eric plays a key role in in ensuring the club runs smoothly. Eric is generally the first point of contact when a new swimmer joins the club. He ensures that they feel welcome and encourages them to keep coming back. This leadership has led to Ipswich City Masters winning the Vorgee E1000 Highest Aerobic Average trophy for the past 14 years. |
| 27/11/2025 | Robert Ferguson | Atlantis Masters | MSSA | Robert has been the Finance Officer for SA Branch for about 14 years and has been a member on the MSSA Board for a time, and he receives no honorarium for this voluntary role. Robert also assists Atlantis members who struggle with Internet payments and entries to MSSA events - pool and ocean. As well as this Robert is an active swimmer training with the club and participating in pool and Ocean events. |
| 27/11/2025 | John Gamlen | Tea Tree Gully Kingfishers Masters | MSSA | John has held positions on the Kingfishers Committee / Board since 1996 including Public Relations Officer, Club Registrar, Club Vice President, Club President, Branch Delegate, Committee Member, Club Vice-President, Safety officer and Fundraising coordinator. John is extremely active volunteering to assist Masters Swimming SA in a wide range of activities, promoting swimming under the banner of 'Fitness, Friendship, Fun' John is very knowledgeable and follows the constitution, by-laws, and rules of swimming seriously and shares this knowledge clearly to help guide management of swimming safely in this state. |
| 27/11/2025 | Justin Giles | Gympie Gold Fins Masters | MSQ | Justin has been a dedicated and active member of Gympie Gold Fins and the wider Masters Swimming community for several years. Justin has played a key role in welcoming new members, ensuring they feel supported and included. Justin embodies the spirit of Masters Swimming. His contributions go well beyond the pool- he is a motivator, mentor and team player |
| 27/11/2025 | Alan Godfrey | Glamourhead Sharks | MSV | Alan is a skilled club coach, a valuable member of the MSV Board, and a meticulous organiser of club, state, national and international swim meets. Alan has made significant contributions to the Glamourhead Sharks during his membership. He has been a member of the Club Committee for several years, and is a key organiser of the Glamourhead Sharks Interclub Swim Meet. Alan was co-President of the organising Committee for the International Gay and Lesbian Aquatics (IGLA) Championships 2020 at which more than 600 competitors from more than 16 countries participated in aquatic sporting events |
| 27/11/2025 | Ron Gray | Leeming Masters | MSWA | Ron has been a member of masters for over 37 years and is always striving for ways to increase his current club's membership base - advocating for Masters swimming and Leeming Masters personally, at events, at Leeming's home pool and via social media. Since joining Ron has not stopped providing time, effort, training, assistance, mentoring, officiating, community advocating for and with Masters Swimming and each of the clubs he's been involved with. With Leeming Masters committee assistance, organised an inaugural club fun championship for Leeming Masters and over last 6mths, worked with the City of Cockburn to obtain funding for Leeming's logo/mascot update. |
| 24/11/2025 | Paul Carter | Darwin STINGERS Masters | MSNT | Paul is currently the Technical Director of both MSNT and Darwin Stingers, positions he has held for a number of years and in his role he trains and mentor technical officials in NT. Pauls have volunteered at a number of National Championships including the 2023 National in Hobart, the 2024 National in Darwin, and the 2025 National in Melbourne. Paul was appointed to the WA World Masters Championships in Singapore as a Technical official. |
| 24/11/2025 | Caroline Clarkson | Doncaster Dolphins Masters | MSV | Caroline has been club president for the past 5 years and a served on the committee since 1997 in various roles. Caroline is a great recruiter of new committee members encouraging the younger members to be more involved and under her presidency the recruitment of new and younger members from the junior club and from the local community has grown thereby promoting the vision of MSA of inspiring adults to swim for life. Caroline recently was awarded her first Vorgee Million Metres award and was awarded the Club Open Water swimmer of the Year in 2024. |
| 24/11/2025 | Edward Collyer | Long Tan Legends Masters | MSQ | In his first year at QLT, Bert (Edward) quickly rose to the role of Vice President, a position he held for six years and VP North role on the MSQ Board, where he has passionately advocated for North Queensland swimmers over the past two years. Bert has been the heart and soul behind many achievements at Long Tan and Masters Swimming in North Queensland. With incredible patience, Bert mentors new members, often going out of his way to ensure everyone feels part of the community and he approaches challenges with grace and humour, stepping up whenever needed. |
| 24/11/2025 | Sarah Cullenane | Alice AUSSI | MSNT | Sarah joined Alice Aussi Desert Dolphins in Alice Springs and quickly took on the role of club treasurer and then after 10 years club president which went hand in hand with being the Alice Springs Masters Games coordinator. Sarah has been the club recorder and encouraged members to do the Vorgee E1000 swims each week and chase those points for our club with some huge success gaining good overall results as a club. Sarah has worked tirelessly to keep the Alice AUSSI club going over the years and is a true Unsung Hero. |
| 24/11/2025 | Katherine Daft | Hobart Dolphins | MST | Katherine has held an impressive range of Club and Official positions over the years and as well as these Katherine is always the first to offer her services for other tasks that need doing. Katherine epitomizes the idea of an unsung hero. She is always for the first to volunteer, but then quietly goes ahead with doing whatever is required. Katherine has helped organise and volunteered at the two National Swims hosted by Tasmania in the past 10 years, organizing the presentation functions for the State Summer Championships, arranging accommodation for the Winter Championship weekends or helping out with any social function the club puts on. |
| 24/11/2025 | Denise DeCarlo | Noosa Masters | MSQ | Since joining Noosa Masters Swimming Club, Denise has been actively involved with the co-ordination of the Vorgee E1000 Program. Her willingness to help and train deckies and timekeepers to support Noosa's endurance swimmers has contributed significantly to Noosa Masters Swimming Club winning the Endurance Trophy for the last 11 years. In addition to entering the results into the Endurance Portal, she organises audits of swimmer's endurance folders to ensure that all forms are completed correctly and each endurance swim is bon-e-fide and she is instrumental in collating the new swimmers’ folders having them ready for the start of the new year. |
| 20/11/2025 | Neal Bertram | Phoenix Masters | MSSA | Neal was instrumental in the formation of Phoenix Masters, preparing and submitting the club’s constitution and incorporation documents. During Neal’s 20 plus years of membership he has given generously of his time and expertise across National, State and Club and has made a worthwhile contribution while not seeking recognition. Neal is an active Vorgee Million Metres participant, is instrumental in encouraging other members of Phoenix Masters to join the program and a keen supporter of the Vorgee E1000 program. |
| 20/11/2025 | Kerryn Blanch | Wests Auburn Masters | MSNSW | Kerryn is the current NSW president, and has been in that role for many years. Kerryn led MSNSW through the pandemic and the State has flourished in the following years due in no small part to Kerryn's leadership. Kerryn spends countless volunteer hours at carnivals and behind the scenes for an extended period of time |
| 20/11/2025 | Dennice Breeschoten | Mornington Peninsula Masters | MSV | Dennice has been a cornerstone of the Mornington Peninsula Sea Dragons and an instrumental figure in Masters Swimming Victoria. Her leadership, generosity, and tireless volunteerism have not only helped build Mornington from the ground up but also has had a lasting impact across the Masters swimming community in Victoria. Dennice has given selflessly of her time, skills, and resources, often working behind the scenes to ensure others thrive in their swimming and our community. |
| 20/11/2025 | Gay Bradley | Cotton Tree Masters | MSQ | Gay founded Cotton Tree Masters Swimming Club with 2 fellow swimmers approximately 7 years ago and since that time, Gay has championed the club’s growth from 3 members to 30 active member today. Gay swims regularly in the morning and knows everyone in the squad by name. Gay volunteers tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the smooth running of every club event, from managing logistics and supporting new swimmers, to being a constant, positive presence for swimmers. |
| 20/11/2025 | Cheryl Brodribb | Cairns Clams AUSSI | MSQ | Cheryl, currently a non-swimming member of the Cairns Clams, has been instrumental in developing, organising and running of Queensland State Meets, Club Meets, Masters Meets. Cheryl has worked with other clubs in the Far North of Queensland such as the Bunna Burras and the Cairns Mudcrabs and was also President of Masters Swimming Queensland. Cheryl has worked tirelessly to promote swimming and she does not do it for recognition...Cairns Clams think she just likes doing it! |
| 20/11/2025 | Glenn Bryan | Launceston Lemmings Masters | MST | Glenn wears many hats: receptionist, statistician, organiser, timer, man who reads every policy, every news article and knows everything that is going on around the Launceston Masters Swimming Club. Glenn is thoroughly deserving of the award as he quietly goes about all his self-appointed tasks and he is a wonderful role model for any member- someone who gives everything to Launceston Lemmings. Glenn is always available for Vorgee E1000 timed swims, and the clubs Thursday night and Sunday sessions are well populated thanks to his generosity in giving time |
| 17/11/2025 | Wendy Abbott | Miami Masters | MSQ | Wendy is Miami Masters Club Secretary for 10+ years. Wendy is always available and nothing is too much trouble, and with such a large club there is always something going on and Wendy is at the forefront distributing information. Wendy is a quite achiever and has competed in swim competitions as well as quietly assisting the club |
| 17/11/2025 | Ann Adams | Ipswich City Masters | MSQ | Ann is a founding member of the Ipswich Masters and has served as Treasurer for over 30 years. Never one to seek the spotlight, Ann works tirelessly behind the scenes. Warm, welcoming, and encouraging to all members, Ann helps foster the values of friendship, fitness, and fun that are at the heart of Masters swimming. |
| 17/11/2025 | Bruce Allender | Sunshine Coast Masters | MSQ | Bruce has a love for all things swimming, demonstrated by his commitment to MSQ as an official at many meets and also as the QSC coach. Bruce has a calm and professional approach. Bruce keeps the tone light-hearted, listens to feedback from the swimmers, whilst still pushing for each swimmer to achieve their best |
| 17/11/2025 | Harry Bahrend | Brisbane Northside Masters | MSQ | Harry involves himself in many aspects of running the club without being asked. Harry encourages nearby swimmers to join Brisbane Northside, explaining the benefits of Masters Swimming. Harry is a genuine unsung hero because of what he does for Brisbane Northside without being asked, and purely for the love of it. |
| 17/11/2025 | Kay Bailey | Launceston Lemmings Masters | MST | Kay Bailey has been involved in Masters Swimming for 30 years, her most recent stint with the Lemmings as recorder for the last 5 years. A testament to her love of the Vorgee E1000 is Launceston Lemmings place in the top ten for the last three years. Whether it be afternoon tea after an E1000 session, (her apple cake is certainly welcome after an hour of breaststroke) Kay is a tireless supporter and organiser of this program and spurs all at Launceston Lemmings to participate. |
| 17/11/2025 | Raymond Bennett | Warringah Masters | MSNSW | Ray is always eager to help and he doesn’t even swim. Ray has volunteered for the 2024 National Championships up in Darwin. Ray is a qualified check starter and attends most meets and MSNSW state events giving his time freely. |
- Key Criteria for Nomination:
- Years of Service: Consideration will be given to the nominee’s length of involvement and sustained commitment to their Club, to their State or to MSA
- Contributions: The nominee should have actively contributed to the success and operations of their Club, to their State or to MSA through leadership, innovation, or service.
- Impact on Membership Growth: Recognition will be given to those who have encouraged participation, recruited new members, helped retain members or played a role in expanding the club’s reach.
- Support and Mentorship: Nominees should have positively influenced club members by offering support, mentorship or guidance.
- Dedication to the Club, to their State or to MSA: A demonstrated passion for the club’s, State or MSA’s mission and a willingness to go above and beyond in supporting its initiatives and operations
- Nominations should provide specific examples of the nominee’s contributions and their lasting impact on their Club, to their State or to the MSA community at large.
NOTE – this may include people who help the club but don’t swim for example: Coaches, Officials, Dry Members, Volunteers. Nominees must be a member of MSA and they cannot be a MSA Life Member.
