Saturday Club Races

Welcome to third club race morning for 2026. Please arrive as early as possible to help setup. Setup is underway by 6.30am and all help is appreciated in getting this completed, especially with a number of regular helpers currently away.

Last Saturday was a blast, although it was hot, our swimmers and volunteers still managed to make a great morning out of it and swam some great times!

Another reminder that our first championships for the year will be the 50m & 200m (Open) Butterfly on Saturday, 24^th January. So enter in those races now before you run out of time!

Squad Reminders

Firstly, the weather has been getting increasingly hot, so this is a reminder to all swimmers to make sure you are bringing enough water and electrolytes to keep you hydrated while at training. A water bottle is a part of your swim gear, just like your flippers and kick board so make sure you bring it with you.

Secondly, Speedo Sprint Series heats are coming up on Sunday 1^st February. Entries for the meet close next Thursday, 22^nd January @ 9.00am, so hurry and enter fast.

Lastly, a Merrylands swimming cap is a part of your club uniform and must be warn to training! If you need to purchase a new one or any uniform, follow this link to the club shop on our website.

Merrylands SwimFest

SwimFest is just a few more weeks away, all swimmers who can swim, masters as well, should be competing at SwimFest and representing our club. Make sure you enter if you have not already. This meet is great practice for all swimmers and a great opportunity to gun for some pb’s. Entries close on Saturday 7^th February @ 5.00pm so make sure you get your entries in early. Merrylands members can use the special member button for discounted entry fees.

As always SwimFest is not run by a lone whale but the entire pod, so please step forward and let Sylvia Chan (Meet Director) know you are available.

If you hate confrontation, we’ve got you covered. You can also sign up to help at this form: https://forms.microsoft.com

Spotlight on Kylee Murray

This week we shine the spotlight on Kylee Murray, whose swimming journey spans learn-to-swim, squads, water polo, the Army, ocean swimming and Masters competition — all while being a valued and active part of our club community.

Q1: Tell us about your swimming journey

A: I started Learn to Swim at Fairfield Pools around 7 years old. Mum couldn’t swim so she made sure all her kids did — me the eldest, two sisters and a brother. About 10 years old, the Fairfield RSL Squads (no longer operating) asked me to join after seeing me swim. Cabramatta Amateur Swimming Club (also no longer operating) also asked me to join after seeing me swim, so I was part of both clubs for a while.

During high school, I pivoted from swimming to water polo. I was the speedy initial racer to get the ball and played Centre Forward. I was on the representative Water Polo team for Westfields High (wasn’t officially a sports school at the time). After leaving school, I went to the Army and joined the Army Defence water polo team where we competed in State and Country Championships. I also joined a water polo club, strangely named the Eastwood Rugby Club. A highlight was going to the Arafura Games where nations along the Arafura Sea competed in many sports, including Water Polo.

I then retired from swimming and took a break for a few years due to a leg and neck injury. About 10 years ago, I decided to do a 10km ocean swim and trained on my own leading up to that event. I noticed some friendly looking faces representing a cool swim club — Ian Wilson, Alison Johnston (and baby William in her tummy!), Peter Johnston and Steve Nguyen — and went over for a chat. I’ve been part of MASC ever since.

Q2: What is your favourite stroke?

A: Freestyle! It’s the easier one and my terrible kicks can be disguised! My least favourite stroke is Breaststroke — because of my terrible kicks. I just can’t do it!

Q3: What is your favourite swimming achievement?

A: Achieving my best 800m freestyle swim in a long time after retirement and injuries at the Australian Masters Championships in Melbourne (April 2025), and again recently at the World Aquatics Masters Championships in Singapore (August 2025).

Q4: #1 Swimming goal for this year?

A: For the Australian Masters Championships in Brisbane in April 2026, I would love to get a new PB for 800m freestyle (or at least swim as well as I did in Singapore).

Q5: What do you love about our Club?

A: I love all the “outside the pool” stuff — the community feel and connections.

Q6: What is Something interesting about you?

A: Whilst I was in the Army, my role was in Signals — deciphering Morse code and doing all the secret spy stuff you see in the movies!

And that's all from Kylee, tune in next week to see who will be featured next. Rumour has it they have already been interviewed... 👀👀

General Message

If you have been enjoying the Whales Tales so far and have any Ideas on how to improve, please speak to Matt.

Lions Club Award

We have had so many people helping out during the season and you would have seen the monthly lists of people being nominated so far this season. So let’s keep recognising our great volunteers by nominating them for the Lions Club Award 👏

Nominate a volunteer

Upcoming Meet Calendar

Check the website for the full list of upcoming meets, closing dates, programs and qualifying times.

Looking for a fun, friendly and fast paced activity this summer?

Come and take part in the 2026 Speedo Sprint Series.

The Speedo Sprint Series caters for girls and boys aged between 8-13 years in 50m Freestyle, Breaststroke, Backstroke and Butterfly events and is a great way to have fun and learn new skills in a friendly environment.

Due to its timing, the meet, along with the Merrylands SwimFest, also provides good practice for School Swimming Carnivals. All swimmers in the Development and Junior squads aged from 8 to 13 are required to enter. Other swimmers should discuss with their coach before entering.

This year's meet will be held on Sunday, 1st February, 2026 at Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre with entries closing on Thursday 22nd January at 9am.

See Also

• Upcoming Swim Meets

Saturday Club Races

Welcome to our second club race morning for 2026. Please arrive as early as possible to help setup. Setup is underway by 6.30am and all help is appreciated in getting this completed.

We have also seen a huge increase in swimmer participation which is fantastic. However, this means we need to do our best to make club races run smoothly and quickly as possible so we can start our first race at 7.00am. So, swimmers do your best to know beforehand what events you are doing and get down to the pool deck as soon as you are call or possibly even before! It is important to note that there will be no more waiting for swimmers to gather equipment, if you are not in marshalling you won't swim your race!

Another reminder that our first championships for the year will be the 50m & 200m (Open) Butterfly on Saturday, 24^th January. So, enter in those races now before you run out of time!

Club Attendance – A Record-Breaking Morning!

Our final club morning of the year recorded the highest attendance at club races since 5 February 2000, an incredible milestone for our club and a huge reflection of the energy, growth, and community spirit at Merrylands.

Seeing the pool deck buzzing with swimmers, families, volunteers, and supporters was a fantastic reminder of how strong our pod has become. Thank you to everyone who turned up, raced, cheered, timekept, cooked, organised, and supported — this record belongs to all of you!

Let’s carry this momentum into 2026 and keep making memor-waves together! 🐋💙

Squad Reminders

Firstly, the past week has been increasingly hot, so this is a reminder to all swimmers to make sure you are bringing enough water and electrolytes to keep you hydrated while at training. A water bottle is a part of your swim gear, just like your flippers and kick board so make sure you bring it with you.

Secondly, Speedo Sprint Series heats are coming up on Sunday 1^st February. All swimmers in Junior and Development Squad should be targeting this meet. Swimmers in the Novice Squad can speak to their coach. Entries for the meet close on Thursday 22^nd January.

Thirdly, all swimmers who can, masters as well, should be competing at SwimFest, make sure you enter if you have not already. This meet is great practice for all swimmers and a great opportunity to gun for some pb’s.

Merrylands SwimFest

Another week goes by, and we are another week closer to SwimFest. Entries close on Saturday 7^th February) so make sure you get your entries in early. Merrylands members can use the special member button for discounted entry fees.

As always SwimFest is not run by a lone Whale but the entire pod, so please step forward and let Sylvia Chan (Meet Director) know you are available. Please do this ASAP!

If you hate confrontation, we’ve got you covered. You can also sign up to help at this form: https://forms.microsoft.com

Some of the jobs for SwimFest include:

1. Timekeeper (record swimmer's time)
2. Chief Timekeeper (manages all the timekeepers)
3. Marshal (organising racers into their heats & lanes)
4. Check Starter (collecting and checking racers from marshalling to blocks)
5. Announcer (announces event for marshalling, medal winners etc.)
6. Recorder (managing and verifying results)
7. Runner (pass msgs between timing operator, recorder and timekeepers)
8. Medals (hand out medals)
9. BBQ Cook (sausages and onions)
10. BBQ Food Server (making sausage sizzles)
11. Bake and Raffle sales (collecting payments, serving baked goods, writing raffle tickets)

We are also looking for anyone keen enough to bake/make some goodies and treats for us to sell (see form), if you are interested, please speak to Sylvia Chan.

Newport Pool to Peak – Results

Four of our Whales took on the Newport Pool to Peak event on Sunday, competing across a range of distances — and what a great showing they had!

Congratulations to Ian Wilson, who placed 3^rd in his division in the 2km event. Alison Johnston narrowly missed the podium, finishing 4^th after being just pipped on the run up the beach. Amy Shaw (Morning Squad) also completed the 2km swim and topped it off by winning an amazing raffle prize.

Special congratulations to William Johnston, who tackled the 400m event which was his first ever ocean swim. A fantastic achievement!

Well done to all our Whales for representing the club so proudly in the open water! 🐋🌊

Lions Club Award Nominations

Each month the Committee votes for the Lions Club Award – the club’s Volunteer of the Year.

We received a lot of nominations for December and a big thankyou to everyone. The nominations received were:

A huge thankyou to all our helpers and donators. If you wish to nominate someone for the Lions Club award, you can do so here: https://forms.office.com

Swimmer Spotlight – Grace Brancatisano

This week we spotlight a swimmer who has built confidence through squads and discovered a love for club racing and community activities.

Q1: Tell us about your swimming journey

A: I started Learn to Swim as a toddler at North Rocks, completing most of the levels before joining Merrylands squads, where I've been a member just over 2 years. Squads have given me the confidence to race at my high school swimming carnival held at SOPAC, which was much bigger and daunting than my primary school swimming carnivals (much smaller and optional to compete).

Q2: Favourite stroke?

A: Freestyle, because I can go fast and the technique isn't complicated. My least favourite stroke is Butterfly because it's quite tricky!

Q3: Proudest swimming achievement so far?

A: Moving up to Junior squads after being in Novice for a while. Juniors is a bit more challenging but not too bad.

Q4: Swimming goal for this year?

A: Do a 200IM race! I probably should have done one by now, maybe I'll do one this week!

Q5: What do you love about the Club?

A: I've never raced before apart from school carnivals and now I love Club races! I love the club's community activities too — the dessert/bake stall at the InterClub Cup was fun to participate in where I made chocolate chip cookies in our Club colours!

Q6: Something interesting about you

A: I play guitar and piano. I often do band camps and in the next few years, I hope to do Music (Piano) for HSC, just like my mum did! Actually, my entire family do Piano — Mum, Dad, Danny (reluctantly) and even Ruth (self-learns at the moment!).

Fundraising Update – Look What Our Whales Achieved!

Our amazing club community has been busy making waves, and the results are fin-tastic! Thanks to everyone who baked, guessed, raffled, bought tickets and supported our fundraisers throughout the season. Your efforts and support of these events has raised significant funds for the club, which goes towards purchasing items and trophies at presentation. Three events recently raised a total of $1,287.50. These were:

• Christmas Raffles & Lolly Jar – $476
• Inter-Club Bake Sale & Raffles – $591.50
• Halloween Lolly Jar – $220

From sweet treats to spooky guesses, every dollar raised helps support our swimmers, events, and club activities. A huge thank you to everyone who contributed...proof that when our pod works together, we make a whale-sized difference! 🐳

Merrylands 50’s

Last week we held the annual Merrylands 50’s races and we saw some close finishes throughout the event. It was great to see 3 heats of the preliminaries, with 22 swimmers entering the event. The preliminary heats saw the number of swimmers reduced to 16 for the semi final round. The semi finals saw 8 swimmers progress to the Final round, with ages of swimmers ranging from 9 to into their 60’s. Being a handicap event it saw everyone having a great chance to take out the first prize, however a big swim from Nina Okorovik saw her blitz the field by almost 2 seconds. Congratulations Nina on your win this year.

Upcoming Meet Calendar

Check the website for the full list of upcoming meets, closing dates, programs and qualifying times.

Welcome to 2026

Welcome to our first club race morning for 2026. We hope you and your family have enjoyed the Christmas and New Year festivities.

A big thank you to everyone for making our Christmas morning a great success. We saw a record number of swimmers enter the day (over 60 swimmers😊) and there was great fun to be had with the novelty events, BBQ breakfast, raffles and lolly jar competition. Special thanks to Alison for organising the novelty events, the Social Committee and cake bakers for a great feed and Lisa & Niushka for the Secret Santa. Oh, and congratulations to everyone who qualified for and swam the 800m Freestyle Championship events

Today we have the Merrylands 50’s event, so make sure you cheer on everyone competing in this event.

Our first championships for the year will be the 50m & 200m (Open) Butterfly on Saturday, 24^th January.

Training Resumes

A reminder for all squad members that training resumes this Monday, 5^th January, so it’s time to get the kickboard and energy ready 💪

If you will be away at any time this month please remember to mark your absence in the swim school system.

A reminder that Speedo Sprint Series heats are coming up on Sunday 1^st February. All swimmers in Junior and Development Squad should be targeting this meet. Swimmers in the Novice Squad can speak to their coach. Entries for the meet close on 22^nd January.

Merrylands SwimFest

We are drawing closer to the Merrylands SwimFest, which will be held on Saturday 21^st February 2026.

Entries for SwimFest are now open in SwimCentral (entries close on Saturday 7^th February) so make sure you get your entries in early. Merrylands members can use the special member button for discounted entry fees.

As always we need a lot of help for the meet, as it is our major fundraising event to support the Annual Presentation trophy costs. So please step forward and let Sylvia Chan (Meet Director) know you are available.

Club WhatsApp Group Chat

We have an informal Club WhatsApp group for members who’d like to stay connected socially. It’s a great space for general chit chat, sharing our kids’ achievements, photos and lost property etc.

If you’d like to join the group, please let the Social Committee know, Sylvia, Denise or Kylee will be happy to add you.

Please note: All official club communications will continue to be shared via email, Whales Tales, and the club website.

Swimmer Spotlight – Damian Chan

This week we shine the spotlight on another one of our Whales team, Damian Chan, a multi-talented member of the club.

Q1: Tell us about your swimming journey

A: I started Learn to Swim with Fairfield Council pools since I was 6 months old. My family and I had no idea about competitive swimming until I was in year 3 getting ready for my first school swimming carnival. My mum took me to Merrylands Pool to practice diving (from watching YouTube clips!) and we noticed people next to us in swim caps properly diving off the blocks. Mum spoke to Peter and shortly after I attended a trial... In my wetsuit! That's what I did swimming lessons in to stay warm! I've been with the club since, built some cool friendships and now wear proper jammers!

Q2: What’s your favourite stroke?

A: Breaststroke! It seems like a complicated stroke but it's simple and relaxing for me, especially after doing a tough stroke like butterfly. I also like the breaststroke turns as it's easy with a touch and turn. I have a deep hatred for backstroke with the sun glare and sideways slamming and whacking my fingers on the lane rope. I don't like it when my arm lifts to backstroke, water flies up and ends up in my mouth. Do you know what's in that water??

Q3: What do you love about the Club?

A: The liveliness and happiness of club. All my squad friends. Parents are friendly. Everyone in the club is nice. BBQs are good. I like swimming in the outdoor pool as it builds resilience since we swim rain or shine. I don't like the tan line though!

Q4: What’s your swimming goal for next year?

• Get under 40secs for 50m freestyle;
• Stay ahead of my Parra City school friend at our school swimming carnival;
• Beat my Zone arch nemesis in breaststroke (that's his weakest stroke and my strongest!);
• Make it to state!

Q5: Something interesting about you

A: I do karate, soccer and recently picked up an interest in Piano. I've been learning songs from YouTube like 'Interstellar'. I also like snowboarding and will be competing for the first time at the Interschools Snowsports Championships in July this year.

Lions Club Award

We have had so many people helping out during the season and you would have seen the monthly lists of people being nominated so far this season. So let’s keep recognising our great volunteers by nominating them for the Lions Club Award 👏

Nominate a volunteer

Club Uniforms

Need uniforms for SwimFest? Our club uniforms in stock are available for purchase through the club’s online shop club shop . Some items may require a special order to be placed with our suppliers, so planning orders ahead of time will allow for the items to be delivered.

P-Plate Award

There is still half a season left for someone to make a silly mistake. We like to recognise and reward all efforts during the season, and the P-Plate award is the perfect way to do this.

Nominate a silly mistake

Seen a Problem? Get it Fixed

If you see something that needs fixing you can elevate this directly with Council by logging the issue here.

Upcoming Meet Calendar

Check the website for the full list of upcoming meets, closing dates, programs and qualifying times.

Saturday Races – Christmas Week

As we dive into the last week of club races before the Christmas break, we’d like to wish all our Whales and their families a very Merry Christmas and a safe, happy holiday season! This week also features the 800m Freestyle Championship, so please arrive early to help us set up quickly — the faster we’re ready, the sooner we can get racing! If you’d like to lend a hand but aren’t sure how, don’t be shy — there are plenty of friendly faces poolside happy to guide and teach. After races (and before breakfast), stick around for our Christmas novelty races, complete with a fun surprise from two special guests…👀 Who could they be?

After novelty races there will also be a Christmas barbeque with the annual Christmas raffle, and more!

Club races return on Saturday 3^rd January 2026.

Coach’s Corner

“You don’t just PB at meets”

We’ve certainly been kicking goals this half of the 2025/26 season! To finish the year, our swimmers completed a 200m kick time trial to measure improvements across the season, and the results speak for themselves.

Since April, our Development and Age Squads have taken a combined 4 minutes and 21 seconds off their kick times, an average improvement of 29 seconds per swimmer! 💪

Our Masters team, Leanne, Varant and Kylee, also debunked the myth that master's don’t kick, shaving a combined 2 minutes off their times. Outstanding effort!

Our final sessions were packed with fun and variety. The morning squad tackled a mixed bag of form strokes (with a catch…there’s always a catch!), while our afternoon Novice and Junior squads came together for relays, creating some great energy and friendly competition across the groups.

We wrapped things up with our annual 12 Sets of Christmas, complete with some truly memorable singing — especially during “five buuuuubbbllleeee riiiinnngggss!” 🎄🎶

We wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and can’t wait to see what we can achieve together in 2026!

NSW Senior State Age Championships – Results Update

Merrylands continued its strong presence at the NSW Senior State Age Championships.

Jay Shrestha proudly represented the club in the 12–14 years Boys 50m Breaststroke, delivering a fabulous swim. Jay not only improved on his time from the NSW Junior Metropolitan Championships just two weeks ago, but also took a full second off his personal best to record his first-ever sub-40 second swim, stopping the clock at a blistering 39.07. He finished 12th overall in the 12-year-old age group, an outstanding result at this level of competition.

This marks Jay’s first qualification for a Senior State Age Championship, and we are incredibly proud of the progress he has made over the past 12 months. His hard work, consistency, and determination are clearly paying off.

Earlier in the meet, Coralie Havea kicked off Merrylands’ campaign with a strong swim in the 50m Freestyle, recording her third-fastest time ever and finishing 29th in the 12-year-old girls age group. Competing at this level for the first time has provided invaluable experience that will support her future development.

Congratulations to both swimmers on representing the club with pride, we look forward to watching their continued growth in the pool. 🐋💙

Unfortunately our 3^rd member to qualify, Leo Zhu, was injured and unable to swim at the meet. We look forward to celebrating your achievements at next year’s meet Leo.

Training Break – Enrolment Hold Reminder

Do you need to put your training enrolment on hold? If you are going to miss a full calendar month of training, you can place your enrolment on hold for that month. To do this, you must submit the Training Break form by the last day of the previous month.

📌 Important Notice for January 2026:
 To place your enrolment on hold for January, the form must be completed by 20^th December. If the form is not submitted by this date, training fees will still be charged for the month.

🔗 Training Break Form: https://merrylandsasc.asn.au/coaching/missedsessions.aspx

Please note that this option applies only when missing a full calendar month of training.

Joke of the Year!

Q: Why did the whale get kicked off Santa’s swim team?

A: Because every time it did a turn, it made a whale-sized splash and soaked the reindeer! 🐳🎅🎄

Swimmer Spotlight – Anna Johnston

This week we shine the spotlight on one of our young Whales, Anna Johnston, who has grown up swimming with the club and continues to make great progress both in and out of the pool. 

Q1:Tell us about your swimming journey

A: I did Learn to Swim with Merrylands Club on Saturdays and the Blacktown Council program. I first started club races when I was 2 years old doing the 15m races (with lots of floaties on!). I was excited, especially having my granddad and dad help me. I progressed to 25m races when I got to kindergarten, then joined mini squads last season when I was 8 years old. For my school swimming carnival, I made it to Regional for 50m freestyle!

Q2: What’s your favourite stroke?

A: Breaststroke! It’s easy and relaxing for me. My least favourite stroke is backstroke — I don’t like the sun in my eyes and banging into the lane rope.

Q3: What do you like about the Club?

A: The sausage sizzles! I like to swim and hang out with the people, especially playing gymnastics and handball.

Q4: What’s your best swimming achievement so far?

A: This year, I was awarded Age Champion for swimming at my school.

Q5: What’s your swimming goal for next year?

A: I want to do 50m butterfly! I’m still working on getting past 25m butterfly.

Q6: Something interesting about you

A: I am good at doing my own and other people’s hairstyles, like braiding. I love art, particularly drawing, sports, dancing, soccer and athletics. Academics-wise, I like Maths because I like writing on the whiteboard.

Q7: What do you want to be when you grow up?

A: A hairdresser or an Olympian for swimming or the 100m sprint.

Tune in next week to see who makes the spotlight next! It could be YOU!

Merrylands SwimFest:

The Merrylands SwimFest will be held on Saturday 21^st February 2026 and we are already planning for the meet.

Entries for SwimFest are now open in SwimCentral. Merrylands members can use the special member button for discounted entry fees.

Club WhatsApp Group Chat

We have an informal Club WhatsApp group for members who’d like to stay connected socially. It’s a great space for general chit chat, sharing our kids’ achievements, photos, lost property, and helping organise school holiday activities.

If you’d like to join the group, please let the Social Committee know, Sylvia, Denise or Kylee will be happy to add you.

Please note: All official club communications will continue to be shared via email, Whales Tales, and the club website.

January School Holiday Activities

Looking for something fun to do these January school holidays? We’ve got a couple of great options for our Whales and families:

Raging Waters – Saturday 10th January (after club races)

Join the club for a day out at Raging Waters after Saturday morning races. We can access discounted tickets for $45 per person (a saving of $30!). To organise tickets, please contact Sylvia.

Diving Clinic at SOPAC

SOPAC is running Diving Clinics during the holidays. A few Junior Squad members are attending the Intermediate class on Monday 12^th January at 10:30am, and there are a few spots still available for that session. Other dates and classes are available too.

More info and bookings: https://www.sopa.nsw.gov.au/things-to-see-and-do/diving-clinic

Donations

Our partnership with the Australian Sports Foundation allows supporters to make tax-deductible donations to the club. Funds raised help us upgrade and maintain our equipment and systems, providing better facilities for you, our members.

We appreciate the great support our members have provided since the partnership commenced. Donations can be made here.

Club Merrylands Christmas Events

At Club Merrylands

Seafood voucher Raffle -Monday 22^nd December from 7.30pm (tickets on sale at 5.30pm)

At Guildford Bowling Club

Ham and Seafood voucher Raffle - Saturday 20^th December from 7pm (tickets on sale at 5pm)

Lions Club Award

Seen someone that deserves recognition for their efforts in helping? Nominate them for the Lions Club Award, our peak award to recognise our volunteers over the season.

Nominate a volunteer

P-Plate Award

As the season rolls along keep an eye out for someone making a silly mistake. We like to recognise and reward all efforts during the season, and the P-Plate award is the perfect way to do this.

Nominate a silly mistake

Seen a Problem? Get it Fixed

If you see something that needs fixing you can elevate this directly with Council by logging the issue here.

Club Uniforms

Need uniforms for SwimFest? Our club uniforms in stock are available for purchase through the club’s online shop club shop . Some items may require a special order to be placed with our suppliers, so planning orders ahead of time will allow for the items to be delivered. 

Upcoming Meet Calendar

Check the website for the full list of upcoming meets, closing dates, programs and qualifying times.

Jay Shrestha represented Merrylands on Day 5 at the NSW Senior State Age Championships today.

Jay had a fabulous swim in the 12-14 years Boys 50m Breaststroke.  Jay not only reduced his personal best time from the NSW Junior Metropolitan Championships 2 weeks ago, but also took a full second off to have his first sub-40-second swim with a blistering 39.07, finishing 12th overall in the 12-year-old age group.

This is the first time Jay has qualified for this high-level meet, and we are so proud of the progress he has made over the last 12 months.

Coralie Havea kicked off Merrylands' campaign at the NSW Senior State Age Championships today.

Coralie swam her 3rd fastest 50m Freestyle ever, which is a wonderful achievement at this level of competition. She finished 29th out of the 12-year-old girls. Coralie qualified for this event based on her fantastic performance at the Inter-Club Cup in November and then reduced her personal best time at the NSW Youth Metropolitan Championships just two weeks ago.

This is the first time Coralie has qualified for this high-level meet, and it has been a great learning experience for her, which will be put to great use in her future swimming career. 

Jay and Leo are our next competitors at the championships and will race on Wednesday in the 50m Breaststroke. 

General (IMPORTANT) Message

Please see the download button above to access the full copy of this week's newsletter, as it provides a complete view on your device or computer.

Saturday Races

Welcome to Championship week 5!! We have swimmers competing in the 400IM this week! Good luck to everyone who qualified and is competing.

A reminder that all swimmers competing in Championship events need to be at the pool by 6:45am (especially if they want to warm up). Arriving late may mean you miss your event.

Set up generally falls to a couple of people, so arriving before 6.45am helps us have set up completed and races ready to start on time. We have a packed program each Saturday and starting late impacts on our finish time and has flow on impacts on presentation and Learn to Swim.

We would love to recognise help with set up by nominating helpers in our monthly Lions Club award voting.

Why is Timekeeping important?

Accurate times provide feedback on the swimmer’s performance in races and also provides officially recognised times for them to use to enter meets with Qualification times.

How can you help achieve accurate timekeeping?

• Watch the swimmer in your lane and move to the front of the wall as they approach the wall (approx. 15m from the wall);
• Take split times when races are longer than 100m (ie every time the swimmer touches the wall in a turn at the start end of the pool);
• Stop your timing device when the swimmer first touches the wall (or noodle rope);
• Record your lane swimmer (not another lane);
• If you do not have a swimmer in your lane do not take a time on your device.

If an issue arises (eg your watch stops, you miss a split, press the button too early or late, timed the wrong lane) please tell the chief timekeeper (Denise) immediately, so that the issue can be resolved by the Referee, Timing Operator & Recorder.

Your help in following this process will help us finalise race results quicker and to attend to issues that arise in a structured way.

Merrylands SwimFest

The Merrylands SwimFest will be held on Saturday 21^st February 2026 and we are already planning for the meet.

Entries for SwimFest are now open in SwimCentral. Merrylands members can use the special member button for discounted entry fees. 

New Club Record

Congratulations to Kylee Murray, who smashed the Veteran’s Women’s record in the 400m Freestyle Championships last Saturday.

Kylee finished in a time of 6:11.45, just 0.06 outside her all-time personal best set at the World Championships in August. Kylee broke the old record (which she set in 2023) by just over 14 seconds.

Whales Challenge #2 result

Last Saturday we held the second of our Whales Challenges for the season and what a close result. The White team led all the way until the team relays and 15m races.

The wash up saw the Maroon team (1,720 points) swim past the White team (1,639 points) to claim the victory and prizes.

Can the White team claim victory in the third and final Whales Challenge, to be held on Saturday 7^th March 2026?

50m Freestyle Skins

As part of the Whales Challenge we also held the Freestyle Skins. The field of 8 swimmers (Alison, Varant, Leo, Le, Joseph, Tomas, William & Marcus) was whittled down to the final two. Congratulations to Leo (Maroon team) who was able to touch the wall before Joseph (White team) in the final.

Training Over Christmas & New Year

Putting your Enrolment on hold

If you are going to miss a full calendar month of training, you can place your enrolment on hold for that month.

To do this, please submit the form before the last day of the previous month. If the form is not submitted in time, you will still be charged for the upcoming month.

📄 Training Break Form: Missed Training Sessions

If you are only missing a small number of sessions, please log your absences through the Swim School System.

Christmas Breakfast BBQ – Saturday 20th December

Join us after club races for our annual Christmas Breakfast BBQ! There will be food, fun, Christmas novelty swim races, and plenty of festive cheer.

🎟️ Christmas Raffle Prizes

Every member and volunteer attending on the day will receive one free raffle ticket. Extra tickets can be purchased before or on the day:

• $2 each or $5 for 3 tickets

🌟 Prizes include:

• $20 Fat Jaks vouchers
• $50 Bunnings voucher
• Kyle Chalmers autographed T-shirts, caps & hoodies
• L'Occitane hair care travel kit
• TYR Junior goggles pack
• Christmas lolly jar (strawberry & tutti frutti candy canes)

🎄 Lolly Jar Guessing Game

• $2 per guess or $5 for 3 guesses
• Available from Week 6 at club races & squads
• Winners must be present on 20th December to claim prizes

See Sylvia for raffle tickets and lolly jar guesses.

🎅 Secret Santa

Kids and adults are invited to join in!

Bring a wrapped gift (maximum value $10) if you’d like to participate in our Club Secret Santa.

Raging Waters Club Day – Saturday 10th January 2026

After club races, we’re heading to Raging Waters for a club day out!

Discounted tickets are available for $45 per person. If you’d like to join, contact Sylvia (0435 178 628) by 20^th December.

NSW State Championships

A huge congratulations to Coralie Havea, Jay Shrestha, and Leo Zhu, who will represent Merrylands at the 2025/26 NSW Senior State Age Championships, held 13–19 December at Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre.

• This is the first State Championship appearance for Coralie and Jay — an outstanding milestone that reflects their growth, persistence, and hard work throughout the year.
• Leo, now a seasoned competitor, will contest two Breaststroke events, continuing his strong run at major meets.

Swimmer Spotlight – Leo Zhu

This week we spotlight a swimmer whose journey has crossed pools, clubs, and even regions of NSW, and who still chooses to come back to Merrylands for the community, the coaching, and the competition.

Q1. Tell us about your swimming journey.

A: I've been doing swimming lessons since I was young, but only in a very small 20m pool. At my first swimming carnival in Year 4, I had a problem with the 50m pool with all the lines and lanes—and I froze up. I didn't do well individually, but I was on the 50m relay team, and we made it to State!

I joined the Moss Vale Swimming Club until Year 6, then in Year 7, my family moved to Sydney, and I joined the Liverpool Swimming Club. I didn't really like it so my friend, Ren Jie, introduced me to Merrylands Swimming Club, where I swam for a few years, then my family moved to Goulburn. I do squad training there, and I travel back to Merrylands to squad train during school holidays when I can, but mostly nowadays I come back to Sydney for meets and our Saturday Club races.

Q2. What keeps you coming back to Merrylands?

(Whale joke: What makes this pod worth the long swim — or in this case, the long drive?)

A: Whilst Goulburn is 2 hours away, it's worth the road trip to Merrylands to visit my club friends and the familiar, friendly club environment. Honestly, I don't feel the competition drive at the Goulburn Club. The nearby Canberra club has it but is way too big of a club. I like smaller clubs as I'm used to smaller groups (I grew up with a very small primary school of 30 kids!). Also, having been at various swim clubs across NSW and going through about 6 swim coaches, I can vouch that Peter is THE BEST swim coach. Thank you, Peter, for inspiring and guiding me along my swimming journey. I'm very grateful for the time and effort you've invested into helping me achieve my dreams.

Q3. What is your favourite swim stroke?

A: Freestyle! I like that you can go crazy with it and it doesn't require much thinking. Race wise, I'm better suited for breaststroke. My least favourite stroke is backstroke because I can't see anything (except the ceiling, if it's indoors). As there's nothing for me to look at, I start fidgeting and can't zone out in backstroke like I do with other strokes.

Q4. Something interesting about you?

A: I can play piano and I love snow sports. I started with skiing but now I prefer snowboarding. I'm currently trying to learn 'butters' trick.

Q5. Your favourite swimming achievement so far?

A: Last year was the closest I've been to making it to Nationals for breaststroke!

Q6. What is your swimming goal for next year?

A: I haven't been able to train as much as I'd like with school commitments and generally being lazy. My intention has been to prioritise study, but often I don't end up studying! So next year, I'm hoping to increase my training from 2-3 times a week to 4-5 times a week, with a big goal to swim at Nationals! And its Year 12, so I will try to also focus on getting through my studies!

Club Uniforms

We have a great range of club uniforms in stock available for sale. These can be purchased through the club’s online shop club shop . Some items may require a special order to be placed with our suppliers, so planning orders ahead of time will allow for the items to be delivered.

We have had a number of items of clothing and training equipment left behind after club races and squad training. Without names on items it is impossible to locate the owner. So a reminder, please put your (or your child’s name) on every item of clothing and equipment.

Lions Club Award

Seen someone that deserves recognition for their efforts in helping? Nominate them for the Lions Club Award, our peak award to recognise our volunteers over the season.

Nominate a volunteer

P-Plate Award

As the season rolls along keep an eye out for someone making a silly mistake. We like to recognise and reward all efforts during the season, and the P-Plate award is the perfect way to do this.

Nominate a silly mistake

Seen a Problem? Get it Fixed

If you see something that needs fixing you can elevate this directly with Council by logging the issue here.

Donations

Our partnership with the Australian Sports Foundation allows supporters to make tax-deductible donations to the club. Funds raised help us upgrade and maintain our equipment and systems, providing better facilities for you, our members.

We appreciate the great support our members have provided since the partnership commenced. Donations can be made here.

Club Merrylands Christmas Events

At Club Merrylands

Ham and Pork Raffle - Monday 15th December from 7.30pm (tickets on sale at 5.30pm)

Seafood voucher Raffle -Monday 22 December from 7.30pm (tickets on sale at 5.30pm)

At Guildford Bowling Club

Ham and Seafood voucher Raffle - Saturday 20 December from 7pm (tickets on sale at 5pm)

Upcoming Meet Calendar

Check the website for the full list of upcoming meets, closing dates, programs and qualifying times.

Coralie Havea, Jay Shrestha, and Leo Zhu will represent the club at the 2025/26 NSW Senior State Age Championships, from Saturday, 13 December to Friday, 19 December at Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre.

For Coralie and Jay, this marks their first appearance at a State Championship, an incredible achievement highlighting their hard work and determination over the past year. Leo, now an experienced competitor, will contest two Breaststroke events, continuing his strong presence at major meets over recent years.

Our team will contest the following events at the championships:

Coralie Havea

• Day 2 (Session 3) - 50m Freestyle - approx 9:21am Sunday 14th

Jay Shrestha

• Day 5 (Session 9) - 50m Breaststroke - approx 12:35pm Wednesday 17th

Leo Zhu

• Day 2 (Session 3) - 100m Breaststroke - approx 10:02am Sunday 14th
• Day 5 (Session 9) - 50m Breaststroke - approx 12:22pm Wednesday 17th

Head Coach Alison Johnston shared her excitement:
“Qualifying for these championships is a fantastic achievement. We’re thrilled for Coralie, Jay, and Leo and look forward to seeing them race against the best in NSW.”

Congratulations to all three swimmers for qualifying, and may the Whale be with you!

See Also

• 2025/26 NSW Senior State Age Championships

Congratulations to Kylee Murray, who smashed the record in the 400m Freestyle Championships this morning.

Kylee set a new record in the Veterans 400m Freestyle, finishing in a time of 6:11.45, just 0.06 outside her all-time personal best set at the World Championships in August.

What makes this even more impressive is that Kylee shattered her own previous record from 2023 by a massive 14.31 seconds. This marks the fourth time Kylee has broken this record since first claiming it 10 years ago in 2015. She has lowered the time by over 25 seconds over that period - a true testament to her consistency, dedication, and passion for the sport.

Head Coach Alison Johnston was glowing in her praise of Kylee's performance: "While we don't talk about a lady's age, I am so impressed and proud of Kylee's result. To break her previous records as a Masters swimmer is a great achievement, and to continue to PB over such a long period says a lot about her consistency at training here at Merrylands, with the dedicated support of her coaches."

Kylee’s achievement is not just about numbers; it’s about perseverance and excellence over a decade of competition. Congratulations, Kylee—you continue to inspire us all!

See Also

• Championship Records