NSWIS scoop pool at SNSW Awards

A host of New South Wales Institute of Sport scholarship holders, and its Swimming Program’s Head Coach, took centre stage when the swimming community gathered to celebrate the inaugural 2025 Swimming NSW Awards.

The evening was dedicated to honouring the athletes, coaches, volunteers, and leaders who continue to elevate swimming across the state.

Hosted by Olympic gold medallist Matt Abood, the Awards marked a milestone moment for the sport in NSW — a formal recognition of the individuals and organisations whose dedication powers the pool deck from the grassroots to the global stage.

Opening the night, Swimming NSW President Graeme Field reflected on the importance of pausing to recognise collective achievement.

Spotlight on Excellence in and out of the Water

The awards program turned its attention to the achievements of athletes and coaches whose work has placed NSW on the world stage. In the Olympic category, Olivia Wunsch (NSWIS / pictured) was celebrated for her breakout performance as part of Australia’s gold medal-winning 4x100m freestyle relay team at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games. Alongside her, swimming legend Bronte Campbell (NSWIS) was also honoured after competing at her fourth Olympics and adding yet another gold medal to her extraordinary career.

In the Paralympic space, Tim Hodge (NSWIS / main picture) was awarded Paralympic Program Swimmer of the Year following his incredible campaign in Paris, where he won his first individual Paralympic gold in the 200m IM (SM9) and helped power Australia’s 4x100m Medley Relay team to the top of the podium. Hodge’s performances, including a silver in the 100m butterfly, affirmed his position as one of the country’s premier para-athletes.

Rising talent Sienna Toohey (NSWIS) was named Youth Swimmer of the Year after a dominant season which included multiple national gold medals and a record-breaking swim that surpassed a long-standing mark set by Olympic great Leisel Jones. In the Open Water category, Tayla Martin (NSWIS) was recognised as the state’s leading distance swimmer, following her selection to the Australian Dolphins team and bronze-medal performance at Nationals.

Celebrating the Coaches Behind the Glory

Behind every athlete is a coach whose belief, discipline, and vision guide them to greatness. The Olympic Coach of the Year was awarded to Adam Kable (NSWIS / pictured), who coached three swimmers to the Paris Games and served as lead coach for the silver-medal winning Men’s 4x100m Freestyle Relay. His leadership within the Towards32 initiative continues to shape the future of NSW high performance.

On the Paralympic side, Misha Payne was recognised as Paralympic Coach of the Year for his role in coaching both Tim Hodge and Chloe Osborn to international success, and for his contributions as a staff member on the national team at the World Para Swimming Championships.

Honouring Lifelong Contribution

One of the most moving moments of the evening came with the presentation of Life Memberships, the highest honour bestowed by Swimming NSW. Among the recipients was Chris Fydler OAM, Olympic gold medallist and former President of Swimming NSW, whose leadership from 2018 to 2024 helped guide the sport through unprecedented challenges and positioned it for long-term growth.

Joining him was Janelle Barnett, a highly respected technical official and long-serving board member whose influence has shaped officiating standards not only in NSW but on the international stage. The final Life Membership went to Ruth Everuss, a 1956 Olympian and long-time coach and administrator who has been instrumental in building swimming in Sydney’s western suburbs. Her legacy is immortalised in the aquatic centre that bears her name.

In addition to the Life Memberships, the Waratah Award recognised two unsung heroes: Stephen Mawbey and Bruce Horlyck, whose tireless volunteer service continues to keep local swimming communities thriving.

Leaders in Community and Club Excellence

Jason Lewis was awarded Volunteer of the Year for his remarkable contributions to the Orange Aquatic Club. As head coach, Jason donates more than 20 hours a week to support his swimmers while balancing a full-time job and has transformed the club into one of regional NSW’s strongest teams.

In club recognition, Albury Swim Club was named Regional Club of the Year for their standout results and inclusive programming, while Lane Cove Swim Club took home the Metro Club of the Year title. Already recognised nationally as Swimming Australia’s Club of the Year, Lane Cove has grown into NSW’s largest club thanks to innovative practices, strong partnerships, and a thriving club culture.

The title of Area of the Year was awarded to Metro North East (SMNE), which impressed with athlete development programs, inclusive events, and a dynamic calendar of competitions and community engagement.

Behind the Scenes and On the Pool Deck

The evening also paid tribute to the officials and staff who bring professionalism and care to every event. Faye Lewis was named Technical Official of the Year after reaching the pinnacle of her field — officiating at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Known for her fairness, calm leadership, and mentorship of younger officials, Faye represents the gold standard of officiating.

Internally, Melissa Gorgijovski was celebrated as Staff Member of the Year for her role in leading more than 16,000 swimmers through Swimming NSW events, including the record-breaking 2025 Country Regionals. Her work ethic, professionalism, and attention to detail earned her not only this award — but a recent promotion to General Manager.

A Celebration of Community, Purpose, and Passion

The night concluded with closing remarks from CEO Kirsten Thomson (presented by COO Daniel Blattman), who reflected on the strength of the swimming community and the path ahead:

“Tonight, marks more than just a celebration, it marks a milestone for our community. For the first time, we gather like this, under one roof, to recognise the extraordinary efforts, achievements, and spirit that define swimming in New South Wales.”

CEO SNSW Kirsten Thomson, OLY