Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
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Geoff Robinson, swam into medals at the pool and open water swim
The 2026 MSA National Short Course Championships celebrated 50 years of Masters excellence at the Brisbane Aquatic Centre from 28 April to 2 May, followed by the National Open Water Swim at Raby Bay on 3 May. More than 800 swimmers from across Australia and overseas came together for six days of racing, camaraderie, and celebrations.
The North Mackay Sinkers fielded a team of six swimmers and one volunteer, contesting full programs of individual events, relays, and the concluding open water swim. Championship functions, a welcome event, and special 50‑year activities added to an already memorable week.
All six pool swimmers performed above expectations, with numerous PBs challenged or broken — a testament to the quality coaching from Millie at DMR Leisure Memorial Pool.
Championship Highlight – Cam McEvoy’s Lightning Swim
A standout moment of the meet was Cam McEvoy’s blistering 25 m freestyle, stopping the clock at 9.32 seconds — a new Masters short‑course record and an electric moment that had the entire venue buzzing. His swim added an extra layer of excitement to an already historic championship.
Pool Highlights – Medal Winners & Standout Performances
Geoff Robinson: Gold – 200 Free, 800 Free. Silver – 400 Free, 100 Free
Nigel Dalton: Silver – 400 Back, Bronze – 25 Back, 50 & 100 Back – 4th
Pierre Craven: 400 IM – 4th
Sue Dalton: 25 Breast – 4th
Relays: The Sinkers Men’s 240+ relay team delivered four strong swims, finishing under nominated times in every event and proving once again how popular and competitive Masters relays can be.
National Open Water Swim – Raby Bay
The inclusion of an OWS at Nationals — often missing from the program — was a welcome addition, attracting over 140 swimmers across the 1.5 km and 3 km distances.
1.5Km: Gold – Nigel Dalton and Geoff Robinson
3km: Bronze – Dan Stampa, 4th – Pierre Craven
A Championship Effort – In and Out of the Pool
The 2026 Championships, delivered solely by Masters Swimming Queensland, were widely praised as a high‑calibre, exceptionally organised national event.
A special shout‑out goes to our own super‑volunteer, Gerri Kissner, who was a “Gold‑medal performer” in her own right — contributing across timekeeping, medal table duties, and countless behind‑the‑scenes roles throughout the five days of pool competition.
Looking Ahead
With Nationals complete, the Sinkers now turn their focus to:
MSQ State Championships in July, where a large and enthusiastic team is already preparing.
Regional meets across North Queensland.
Our own blue‑ribbon event, the Whitehaven Beach Open Water Swim in October
A huge congratulations to all Sinkers who represented the club with pride, spirit, and sportsmanship at this milestone national event.
Contributed by Dan Stampa
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