Mackay Cyclones Duo Qualify For Australian Trials

Two talented swimmers from the Mackay Cyclones Swimming Club are set to represent Mackay on the national stage after qualifying for the 2026 Australian Swimming Trials in Sydney from June 8^th–13^th.

Ehsan Helou and Audrey Bryan have both achieved qualifying times in the highly competitive 50-metre breaststroke event and will take to the pool on Day Three of the meet, June 10^th, against many of Australia’s top swimmers.

The achievement marks a significant milestone for the pair and reflects years of dedication, perseverance and hard work in the pool.

Cyclones coach Leigh-Anne Pokarier praised the swimmers for the resilience they have shown throughout their journeys to reach the elite level.

“These athletes understand better than most the highs and lows that come with elite sport — the setbacks, challenges and moments of disappointment,” she said.

“But their qualification is proof that persistence, resilience and hard work do pay off when everything finally comes together.”

The success of Helou and Bryan also reflects the commitment of Pokarier, whose passion for developing young swimmers has helped build a strong culture of resilience, discipline and belief within the Cyclones squad.

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The club described the qualification as a significant milestone and said the entire Cyclones community was proud of both athletes.

The Australian Swimming Trials are among the country’s premier events, with swimmers competing for national selection and representative honours.

For Helou and Bryan, qualifying alone places them among the nation’s best breaststroke swimmers and caps off a strong long-course season for the Mackay Cyclones squad.

Their success is also proving an inspiration for younger swimmers within the club, demonstrating what can be achieved through resilience, commitment and belief.

As the countdown to Sydney begins, the Mackay swimming community will be proudly cheering on two of its own.

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