2025 Club Awards and Christmas Celebration
On Sunday, 7 December 2025, many members came together to celebrate the club’s successful year at the Vikings Club, Erindale.
The club recognised the achievements of members in the annual presentation awards and celebrated the night in festive attire, with a Kris Kringle gift being an enjoyable highlight.
Thanks to Maria for organising the event – a great finish to the swimming year.
2025 Award Winners
Club Person of the Year: Nicholas Dando
Nick is a long-standing committee member as Treasurer. He is quietly efficient, forward-moving, and ‘just gets things done’.
He is one of the most consistent swimmers at training, and if an event is in Canberra, such as the Australian Masters Games or NSW State SC Championships, he enjoys competing for the club.
Swimmer of the Year: Elizabeth Merenda
In recognition of Elizabeth’s outstanding performance at the World Aquatics Masters Championships held in Singapore, where she won silver medals in 50m Freestyle and 200 IM. She set two NSW records - in the 100m Freestyle and 50m Freestyle, and a NSW and National Record in the 200m Individual Medley, plus top ten finishes in her other three events.
Encouragement Award: Diane Adams and Boris Petukhov
Diane joined the club last year and has become a regular at training. She is always keen to take on new skills, has attended workshops, and has competed at swim meets at Campbelltown and the Australian Masters Games.
Boris started swimming mid-year and has gone from swimming 400m to being able to complete close to 1,500m. He listens carefully, tries hard, and is always keen to learn.
Most Improved: Kristi Ruus
Kristi has been diligent in working on her stroke and has been training consistently over the year.
This has paid handsomely in her reduced times, particularly in Freestyle and Butterfly.
Endurance performance: Paul Wilkinson
Paul is enthusiastic, helpful, and friendly, and is a regular participant at endurance sessions.
He has a positive approach and a ‘can-do’ attitude. His 2026 goal is to complete the entire Endurance 1000 program.
Postal Swimmer of the Year: Ann Reid and Kris Dillon
Ann and Kris both completed four postal swims during the year.
The British Long-Distance Swim, Bunbury Stinger Postal Swim, Baddaginnie Animal Postal Swim, and the Tuggeranong Trifecta Postal Swim.
