THE Myall Masters Swimming Carnival, which has become quite a highlight of the NSW Masters Calendar, was held on Saturday 11 February 2023.

The local Masters Club successfully hosted their ninth annual Masters swimming meet, with 23 clubs and 134 competitors.

Myall Masters fielded a team of 25 swimmers who all performed strongly, the club winning the carnival convincingly with 836 points.

Second place went to Port Macquarie with 501 points and Warringah Club came in third with 412 points.

“The event was organised with the support of approximately 30 eager volunteers from our club and 20 volunteer officials from a variety of masters clubs,” said Chris Dunning, Myall Masters.

“The YMCA staff were also extremely supportive and willing to be of assistance, while our local Lions Club supplied the BBQ at the end of the day.

“These combined efforts resulted in a fantastic and outstanding day.

“Although all upgrades to Tea Gardens Pool by MidCoast Council could not be completed by the carnival date, our willing volunteers and pool staff, with their ‘can do’ attitude helped contribute to the success of the day.”

Club members Sharon Taylor, Linda Stubbs, Jo Collins, Luke Rochester and Leon Bobako were outstanding in their swims, all winning their respective age groups.

Steve Bergan’s individual effort in his 50m Breaststroke was loudly cheered home by the whole Myall Masters team which was led by our resident announcer Rhonda Bobako.

“A special mention needs to be made of Jackie Bower.

“Jackie was certainly one of the heroes of the Myall Masters Team.

“She competed in her first Masters Meet, performed her best times and also volunteered to enter one of our top relay teams as a last-minute replacement.

“The team of Cheryl Rose, Linda Stubbs, Jackie Forsyth and Jackie Bower went on to win their event by a nine hundredth of a second!,” Chris said.

With complimentary catering to competitors, officials and spectators alike, Myall Masters high standard of hospitality and support to other clubs was again demonstrated and well received.

“A big thank you to members who supplied slices and cakes and to our friends from the Lions Club who manned the delicious barbeque.

“Myall Masters ethos of fun, fitness and friendship was once again demonstrated in the whole comradery of this special day!”