Courier Mail Saturday 8 October 1938
20 TEAMS FOR WATER POLO COMPETITION
The Queensland Amateur Water Polo Association which finished with ten teams
last season may have twenty competing when the season commences on November 4.
Arrangements have been made to send a team of ten to Sydney to contest the
Interstate Royal Shield in February.
The Valley, last year's premiers, will be represented by at least three teams.
Other Clubs which may field teams are; City Pastime (2), Taxation (2), Tugun,
Railway, Bribie Island, Mowbray Park, Tramways, Telegraph, Commercial, Sandgate,
Moreton Bay, and Kirra.
Both championship and handicap competitions will be played this season.
-------------------------------------------C.M. Tuesday 11 October 1938
FACILITIES FOR SWIMMING
ASSOCIATION CRITICAL
"There were great hopes last season would have been treated by the provision of
better facilities for swimming in Brisbane," said the President, Mr D.S.Carter, in
discussing the Report at the Annual Meeting of the Queensland Amateur Swimming
Association last night.
Mr Carter said the Council had fixed a sum of ₤30,000 pounds for that purpose,
but the money was not available, and might not be in the coming season.
The pool site chosen in Musgrave Park had been vetoed by the Government because
of its proximity to a High School. It was likely that another site in the Park
would be acceptable to the authorities.
Turning to other phases in the Report, Mr Carter said that special attention
had been given last season to coaching, a most important thing in all sports, and
good had resulted. That would be continued.
It was regrettable that the membership had shown a decline and that the
Association was not as financially sound as they would like. The infantile
paralysis epidemic had affected attendances, and the membership would have been
better in the records if some affiliated bodies had not been lax in their
registrations.
Mr Carter spoke highly of the sound support given by country centres,
especially in the far north.
After several speakers had commended the officials, the Report was adopted.
The following officials were elected - Patron, Mr F.W.De Little; President, Mr
D.S.Carter; Vice Presidents, Messrs E.S.Collin, H.Maylon, R.W.Hislop M.L.A, The
Lord
Mayor
(Ald
A.J.Jones),
Dr
E.S.Meyers,
Dr
Bendeich
(Maryborough);
Handicappers, Messrs J.Whittington. J.Montgomery.
RESULT OF MAIL VOTE
At a meeting of the Executive held afterwards, the results of two mail votes
taken at the request of the A.S.A were announced.
There was a "Yes" vote that the One Mile Free Style Championship be deleted in
favour of a 1650 yards, and a negative vote on the substitution of a Women's 330
yards Medley Teams Race instead of the 880 yards Free Style Championship for
women. Only Victoria and New South Wales voted for the change.
-------------------------------------------------
C.M.
Friday 14 October 1938
SWIMMERS FROM OVERSEAS
VISITS UNLIKELY THIS SEASON
Officials of the Queensland Amateur Swimming Association reported an
unsatisfactory season 1937-38 at the Annual Meeting on Monday night, and are
preparing for one which they may desire, but they are facing difficulties, mostly
financial, earnestly and hopefully.
It was not their fault that money was lost last season. The long ban on
swimming pools as a result of the influenza epidemic had an effect on revenue and
made it impossible to get full benefit from the visit of Walter Spence of British
Guiana who was willing to give demonstrations for the benefit of school children
and swimmers generally.
The financial loss of last season could be recouped by tours of overseas
swimmers, and it was hoped that at least one would be arranged. The international
outlook of recent weeks made visits uncertain, and it is most unlikely the Danish
girls, the last hope, will be seen in Australia.
With an Olympiad in 1940, the prospects are no better for the following season.
It is bad luck for Australia that the Japanese could not conduct the one allotted
to Tokyo. The original arrangements would have brought the world's best athletes
closer to this country than many of them had been, and some may have paid us a
visit.
"TOO MANY HANDICAPS"
"Lad" Collin's assertion that big carnivals were made unattractive by too much
handicap racing, has much to support it. Among the spectators are many who would
go only to see the champions, and are not interested in the minor events.
The encouragements given to water polo should be reflected in swimming
generally and may solve the carnival problem.
Mr N.Burn, representative for Warwick, forecast a proposal for special
championships for swimmers under eighteen years.
The New South Wales Association is not satisfied that the diving tower in
Hobart meets all the requirements for a National Championship to be held there in
January. At a meeting in Sydney last night the question of objecting was
discussed.
-----------------------From McKauge's press clippings (? October) 1938
HAWAIIAN CHAMPION'S QUEENSLAND - NOT TOO STRENUOUS
COMFORTABLE TOURIST'S TRIP - TWO HOURS "WORK" A DAY
By R.G.H.
The "misdeeds" accredited to the Australian Swimming Union by a southern
journal, in mentioning an "overfull" tour of the continent by the Hawaiian
swimming champion, Nyoshi Nakama, would be "grave" indeed if the tour was as
strenuous as the southern journal would have its readers believe.
If Nakama was a woman croquet champion of three score years and ten there would
be some solid ground for both the length and breadth of the southern journal's
tirade, but when it is remembered the champion is in the flower of youth and as
strong and healthy as any of the fine specimens of manhood that swimming produces,
neither the public or the Australian Swimming Union need have any fear that "the
friendly little fellow" will be "killed by an amount of work that would kill an
elephant."
THE REAL POSITION
Strictly speaking, the Hawaiian, while in Queensland - and it is evidently the
Queensland section of the tour that has raised the southern journal's ire - will
not be called on to do more than two hours work out of every 24, and this in the
cool of the evening. For the rest of the time he will live in first class hotels,
travel in the best the State can provide, and generally enjoy what thousands of
tourists per year call pleasure.
In his two hours work each day, he may be called upon to swim three races
against opposition that in most cases will scarcely extend a champion of Nakama's
calibre. Even if the events called for a half mile swim, the Hawaiian, while in
Queensland, would be capable of loafing his way over the distance with no more
loss of energy than in a serious training swim.
SAMPLE OF ITINERARY
Since the Queensland itinerary is in question, glance at the first few days
plans. Nakama will arrive in Warwick about noon on January 16.
Until 8pm he will be entertained or allowed to rest. At 8pm his day's "work"
commence with perhaps races over three distances. By 10.30 at the latest his
"work" will be over, and until a nine o'clock breakfast the following morning he
will be again free. At 10.30am he will leave for Dalby by car for a 100 miles
journey over first class roads. Dinner will be taken in Toowoomba perhaps, and
Dalby could be reached by 2pm. By 5pm the champion will be expected at the Dalby
pool for his second two hours "work". Next day he will journey by train to
Brisbane where his third two hours work will be called for.
After his Brisbane appearance Nakama will journey to Melbourne for the
Australian Championships and other southern engagements, and will return to
Queensland on March 21 for a tour of the north.
Commencing with Maryborough on March 22, Nakama will touch at Gladstone,
Rockhampton, Cairns, and Townsville in five days - a matter of 870 miles,
travelling by train and air.
This may appear to blasé tourists rather a rush, but through the eyes of a 19
years old healthy youth, it will be seeing the country in comfort, being
entertained by people who have the champion's interests at heart, and enjoying it
only as a youngster can.
----------------------------------------------C.M. Tuesday 15 November 1938
SWIMMING RELAY TO VALLEY
LEADING TEAM DISQUALFIED
At the first Speedo swimming carnival of the season, conducted by the CourierMail Club at the Valley Baths last night, Valley A won the principal event, the
Speedo Relay of 300 metres.
The Courier-Mail team finished first after being third in the second heat, with
Sandgate second, but both were disqualified for breaking their times. In the
Junior Association Cup Relay the three placed teams were disqualified for the same
reason.
Sandgate swimmers were prominent. R.Blow swam well to win the senior
championship of 400 metres with A.Imrie (V) second and P.McMillan (S’gate) third.
The Sandgate women’s team won the relay from one minute behind.
R.Rowley won the Cup presented by “The Harvester”, of the Courier Mail for a
jockey’s championship.
The Metropolitan Junior Championship (200 metres) was won by J.Murray (Tele).
-----------------------------------------------
C.M. Friday 18 November 1938
CHALLENGE RACE FOR SWIMMERS
With the dates allotted for the State and Country Championship, aspiring
champions will commence a solid preparation in the hope of dethroning the present
titleholders and gaining representation in the team to compete in the Australian
National Championships at Melbourne and Hobart.
Although the season has barely commenced, Fleming is displaying his best form.
He appears certain to retain his sprint titles, and be the State’s first
representative in the national titles.
In recent years Queensland has lacked a distance swimmer of sufficient calibre
to extend Southern champions, and it is pleasing to note the improvement displayed
by Rex Blow and Alan Imrie in the Metropolitan championships last Monday. The time
was an improvement of 13 seconds on that of last season, and it would appear these
youthful champions will prove worthy opponents for the titleholder, Bill Fleming,
and Merv Witt in the 400 metres title event.
TEST FOR WITT
The Maryborough Club has provided opportunity to gauge the form of Witt by
arranging a challenge race over 440 yards between Fleming, Blow, and Witt in the
Maryborough Baths on November 14. A metropolitan team comprising Miss M.Cuzzu,
Messrs W.Fleming, G.Johnston, and R.Blow, will visit Maryborough that weekend.
Miss Iris Tubman was unavailable and Kev Horn, State backstroke champion, had
accepted an invitation to visit Toowoomba with the Valley Club.
----------------------------------------------C.M. Wednesday 23 November 1938
NAKAMA MAY SWIM IN STATE TITLES
If the Australian Union sanctioned the tour of the Hawaiian swimming champion,
Nyoshi Nakama, a visit to Queensland would be acceptable, said Mr R.McKauge,
Secetary of the Queensland Amateur Swimming Association, yesterday. The Queensland
champion- ships would commence on January 18, and arrangements could be made for
Nakama to compete in the title races.
Nakama has accepted an invitation from the New South Wales Association to visit
Australia, and to compete in the N.S.W. titles from January 7 to 14.
-------------------------------------------------C.M. Friday 25 November 1938
TWO CITY TITLE RACES AT SPEEDO CARNIVAL
BLOW NOT FOR MARYBOROUGH
The second Speedo Shield carnival of the Brisbane swimming season will be
conducted by the Railway Institute Club next Wednesday night.
The first carnival, controlled by the Courier-Mail Club, was well attended, and
the swimming was good. Rex Blow was the outstanding performer, his time for the
400 metres being 13 seconds faster than that registered by P.McMillan of Sandgate
who won in 1937. McMillan was third to Blow a fortnight ago.
The worst feature of the opening carnival was the numerous disqualifications
for breaking time. In the Speedo Relay, the three teams placed by the judges were
deprived of their positions after the handicappers had done their arithmetic. It
was a disappointment to the disqualified competitors and also to the spectators,
most of whom had gone before the revised placings were announced.
It might make carnivals more attractive if they commenced at the advertised
time.
There are two local championships on the next programme, 100 yards freestyle
for seniors, and 100 yards freestyle for juniors. K.Foster (V) won the senior
title in 59sec last season, and the junior title went to a club-mate, J.McLean,
whose time was 1.2 2/5.
IMRIE REPLACED BLOW
In view of the improvement shown by Blow, the announcement that he, Bill
Fleming, and Merv Witt, were to meet at Maryborough tomorrow, caused much
speculation as to the result of the race.
Blow is unable to make the trip with the Brisbane team, and his place has been
taken by Alan Imrie, who should prove a good substitute.
Nyoshi Nakama, a Hawaiian swimmer, will visit this country next January. Nyoshi
is expected o win some events for the United States at the 1940 Olympiad. In the
all-American championships recently he was second to Ralph Flanagan in every
freestyle event from the quarter to the mile. He has swum 440 yards in 4.50, and
880 yards in 10.10.
---------------------------------------------C.M. Friday 2 December 1938
PREPARING FOR BIG CARNIVALS
SWIMMING COUNCIL TO DISCUSS NAKAMA VISIT
By “Breaststroke”
Much important business will be discussed at meetings of the Council and the
Executive of the Queensland Amateur Swimming Association on Monday night.
A Report will be presented on the negotiations made for a tour of Queensland by
the Hawaiian swimmer, Nakama, who will appear at the State Championship next
month. Nakama is a class swimmer, with prospects of successes at the Finland
Olympiad in 1940, and delegates should sanction what has been done to bring him
here.
Visitors of this type are a tonic to swimming. At one period it was thought
that the season would have to depend on the efforts of local swimmers.
Preparations must be made for the big carnivals at which State and Country
titles are decided, and which will determine this State’s representation at the
Australian championships to be decided at Melbourne and Hobart.
KEEN FINISHES
There was some keen racing at the second Speedo carnival of the season,
conducted by the Railway Institute Club at Ithaca Baths on Wednesday night. The
final of that event was won by the Railway team. Placings were entirely different
from those at the Courier-Mail carnival a few weeks ago.
The next of these carnivals will be conducted by the Sandgate Club on December
20. The metropolitan title events to be decided are the 100 yards junior
backstroke and the 220 yards junior backstroke.
J.McLean, holder of the metropolitan 100 yards freestyle title, had another
success on Wednesday night. His time was 1.3 4/5, against 1.3 2/5 last year.
The Under 18 metropolitan championship, a new event, was not well patronised,
but the final was so close that the timekeepers declared for only 1/5sec each way.
J.Murray had an easy win in the junior event in which there was an unusual
variance in the times. Murray won his heat in 1.6 3/5 but took only 1.3 4/5 in the
final. The time for the first heat was 1.10 1/5.
Alan Imrie, the 19-year-old Valley swimmer, was expected to be a good
substitute for Rex Blow in the challenge match over 400 metres with Bill Fleming
and Merv Witt at Maryborough last Saturday night, but few thought he would win.
He and Fleming provided an exciting finish in which Imrie showed speed and
courage to win by a touch after Fleming had overtaken him as they turned for home.
After that severe effort, Fleming attempted to improve on the 100 yards record
for the baths, 54 2/5sec, made last year by Walter Spence. He was 1 2/5 sec
slower.
The visit of the Brisbane swimmers will assist the Maryborough Association
which is planning improvement to its pool. It is the only one without a tiled
bottom in the State.
C.M. Thursday 8 December 1938
EAGERS WIN SHIELD
MERCANTILE RELAY SWIMMING
E.G.Eager and Sonís No 6 team won the Elphinstone Shield for the mercantile
teamsí relay handicap, decided by the Valley Amateur Swimming Club at the Valley
Baths last night. No fewer than 14 teams represented that firm.
Brisbane Fruit Vendors team, comprised of the Collings family, two girls and
two boys, won a trophy for scoring in a semi-final.
The competition went to twelve heats, three semi-finals, and a final.
James Hardie and Co No 1 team were second and Bruce Small Pty Ltd (Ipswich)
team was third.
The third Speedo Shield carnival of the season will be conducted by the
Telegraph Club at the Valley Baths tonight.
------------------------------------------C.M. Saturday 10 December 1938
KEEN SWIMMING
CHAMPIONS LIKED BY PUBLIC
Public patronage of swimming carnivals has increased with each one, and
officials of the Queensland Amateur Swimming Association expect larger crowds to
see the Hawaiian swimmer, Nakama, at the championships next month.
The mercantile teams relay handicap conducted by the Valley Club at the City
Baths on Wednesday night, attracted a crowd that occupied more than three-quarters
of the available accommodation.
W.Fleming (Australian and Queensland champion), K.Horn (Queensland backstroke
champion), Iris Tubman (State senior and junior champion), Pat Shanahan
(Queensland breaststroke champion), and M.Inwood, gave exhibitions which showed
they are ready to defend their titles against the best in the State.
INTEREST IN CHAMPIONS
They and other champions and near champions should guarantee keen racing on
January 18, 20, 23, and 25 when the State and Country championships are decided.
Interest will be increased by the appearance of Nakama, the versatile Hawaiian.
For the swimmers there is the added incentive of overseas tours which the
Australian Swimming Union hopes to arrange annually, beginning with a visit to
South Africa in the early part of next year.
TOUR OF SOUTH AFRICA
South Africa has suggested a team of three should leave Melbourne on February
6. The Australian championships will not be completed in time to permit that.
February 22 is suitable, and if the team goes, it will be on that date.
The South African officials expressed a desire that Robin Biddulph, Empire
breaststroke champion should be in the team, and he, Percy Oliver (Empire
backstroke champion), and Ron Masters (Empire diving champion), have been invited
to comprise the team.
Should one or more decline, Bill Fleming and George Johnston, both of
Queensland, will be in the running. Both are available.
NAKAMA WANTED
Clubs are seeking an appearance by Nakama, who will have a busy itinerary in
this State. Warwick probably will see him first, on January 16.
-------------------------------------------------C.M. Wednesday 21 December 1938
RETAINS TITLE
FREESTYLE TO IMRIE
Registering the good time of 2m 30 3/5s, Alan Imrie yesterday retained his
metropolitan 220 yards freestyle championship at the Speedo carnival at the
Sandgate Baths last night. R.Blow finished two yards away second, with D.O’Connor
third.
Sandgate Ladies did well to win the ladies teams race off a 50 seconds mark.
The final of the men’s Speedo Shield relay went to the Moreton Bay B1 team,
with the Courier-Mail team second.
------------------------------------------------C.M. January 1939
WORLD TITLE SWIMMING
OLYMPIAD FOR AUSTRALIA
A suggestion for a swimming Olympiad has been submitted to the Australian
Swimming Union by the New South Wales Swimming Association. Subject to sanction it
will be held in 1941, Australia’s swimming Jubilee. It was the idea of the Manager
of the Australian Olympic team to Amsterdam, Mr Les Duff, who said that it had
been discussed there in an informal way. It would be conducted along Olympic lines
under power delegated by the International Federation, and with recognised world
championship events all nations will be invited to send representatives.
The Commonwealth and State Governments will be asked to assist financially. To
support that claim the Olympiad will be made part of the National Fitness
campaign. The co-operation of the Surf Life Saving Association and the Royal Life
Saving Society will be sought.
--------------------------------------------C.M. Friday 13 January 1939
NAKAMA HERE WEDNESDAY
GREAT RACE LIKELY OVER 400 METRES
MANY CHALLENGERS FOR FLEMING’S TITLE
Kyoshi Nakama, the Hawaiian swimmer, will make his first appearance in Brisbane
on Wednesday night when he will swim in the State 400 metres freestyle
championship at the Valley Baths.
He should win the event, but he is not eligible to hold the title which should
go to Bill Fleming, the present champion, or Alan Imrie, or Merv Witt, or Rex
Blow, as other possibilities. It should be a great struggle between these four.
On his form in his first two appearances in the New South Wales Championships,
Nakamaí’s times entitle him to be the top-liner at the carnival.
MANY CHALLENGERS
Eleven Queenslanders have entered for the State’s 400 metres freestyle
championship held by Bill Fleming of Sandgate. His time last year was 5m 24s. In
that swim he defeated Merv Witt and Alan Imrie. Imrie’s form has improved since.
He defeated Fleming at Maryborough early in the season by a small margin and may
be the first Queenslander to finish on Wednesday night.
Witt cannot be discarded because of his defeat at Maryborough. He will be in
better condition for the State Titles.
Another man’s form to recommend him is Rex Blow who won the 400 metres
metropolitan championship at Sandgate in December. His time was 5m 30 3/5s, but he
will have to be better if Fleming can swim to last season’s time. In preparation
for the championships Blow has given special attention to distance events and he
may be capable of out-speeding the field.
At the Empire Games swum a year ago, Fleming left no doubt that he is
Australia’s best sprinter, and only a good man will deprive him of the 100 and 200
metres titles at later carnivals.
An interesting entry for the distance events is Keith Anderson of Townsville.
Without a rival he clocked 5m 32s for 440 yards recently.
BACKSTROKE PROSPECTS
Next in importance is the 100 metres backstroke title that was won by Kev Horn
last season in 1m 19s. He will compete again and he will have nine competitors to
beat if all those nominated start. Amongst them is Jack Venning who was second
last season in 1 1/5ses slower time. Venning is the medley champion of the
metropolis and his improvement since last year has been sufficient to give him a
good chance.
Freestyler Keith Anderson will also be in the event. Recently he defeated his
brother Stewart who was third in the State title last year.
Three other men’s championships will be decided on Saturday night, 50 metres
Under 12 State, 100 metres freestyle country, and 50 metres junior freestyle
country. Country events were won last year by N.Wedlock (Cairns) 100 metres, and
E.Leau (Warwick) 50 metres.
Pictures 13 Jan, Nakama and Fleming (head and shoulders); 17 Jan, Iris Tubman
(head and shoulders).
------------------------------------------C.M. Thursday 19 January 1939
NAKAMA’S NEW FIGURES
AUSTRALIAN RECORD OVER 400 METRES
FLEMING, TITLE HOLDER, IN SECOND PLACE
Kyoshi Nakama, the Hawaiian 18 year old swimmer, made an Australian record fall
in 4m 51 1/5s for the distance when he won the 400 metres freestyle title of
Queensland at the State and Country Championships at the Valley Baths last night.
It was Nakama’s best swim over what is claimed to be his best distance.
With half the distance covered he had a Queensland record of 2m 16s for
200metres, and that bettered by 1 1/5secs the time made by Jean Taris, the
Frenchman, when he visited Queensland. Nakama was first into the water, turned
first, and increased his advantage with each lap to finish with his nearest
opponent, W.Fleming the title holder, nearly 40 yards away. The sectional times of
Nakamaís great swim were ñ 50 metres 31 2/5, 200 metres 2m 16, 300 metres 3m 32
4/5, 400 metres 4m 51 1/5. The visitor gave a display of easy rhythm and great
speed in keeping with the reputation which preceded him.
In the absence of the Hawaiian, Fleming would have been the hero of the race.
His time was 5m 21 3/5s, faster by 1/5sec than V.Tremble’s best time by a
Queenslander. Fleming was not expected to retain the title. That made his effort a
meritorious one.
Rex Blow, whose chances were not favoured, finished third and was so close to
Fleming that he equalled Tremble’s figures. Witt was fourth and Imrie fifth.
ANDERSON’S SUCCESS
The only surprise of the night was the defeat of Kev Horn by Keith Anderson of
Townsville for the 100 metres backstroke title which was held by Horn. It was a
close finish with Anderson succeeding by little more than a touch.
In winning the 200 metres Junior Squadron Championship, Rockhampton beat the
record by a Rockhampton team by nearly four seconds.
--------------------------- -------------------C.M. Saturday 21 January 1939
NAKAMA WINS AFTER CRAMP
1500 RECORD SHATTERED
BEATS FLEMING ALSO IN 100 METRES TITLE
Kyoshi Nakama, the Hawaiian swimming champion, scored a winning double at the
Queensland Swimming Championships carnival at the Valley Baths last night in the
1500 metres and the 100 metres. Although attacked by severe cramp at 1100 metres
he won the 1500 metres event by 30 yards in 21m 31 4/5s, a time which was 30 2/5
secs better than the Queensland record established by M.Witt of Maryborough last
year.
Although it was announced that K.Anderson (Townsville) was second 1/5 sec ahead
of R.Blow (Sandgate), the Executive decided at a meeting after the carnival that
they were a dead-heat for second place, and a dead-heat for the Queensland title.
Nakama won the 100 metres event by 2 yards from W.Fleming (Sandgate) the
Australian champion, in 61 1/5 secs. His time was only 1 sec outside the
Queensland record held by Takaishi, the former Japanese champion.
In the 1500 metres A.Imrie led at 100 metres and was followed by R.Blow,
M.Witt, and K.Anderson. Nakama was fifth. At 200 metres which was covered in 2m 45
1/5s Blow led b a touch from Nakama, then the Hawaiian went to the front and led
by 7 yards at 300 metres. The race between Anderson and Blow for second place was
the closest seen in the Valley Baths for years. Anderson in second place was no
more than 2 yards ahead of Blow at any stage. Blow caught Anderson at the start of
the last 50 metres and they raced together until the finish.
FLEMING TAKES EARLY LEAD
Nakama and Fleming both started well in the 100 metres title, but Fleming
touched ahead at 50 metres. Although Nakama turned more quickly, Fleming still had
the lead until 75 metres had been covered. Then Nakama forged ahead and won by 2
yards. Fleming had difficulty in defeating R.Campbell of Warwick who did well over
the last 25 yards.
Iris Tubman who learnt of her pass in the Junior Public Examination yesterday
created two records last night. She won the 100 metres Freestyle Championship of
Queensland in 1m 12s, beating her own record time of last year by 1 1/5 secs. She
defeated D.Story by 4 yards. Winning by 5 yards, Miss Tubman clipped 4 1/5 secs
off the 100 metres backstroke record with a time of 1m 28 4/5s. M.Inwood, was
second.
J.Meredith, the Sandgate champion, defeated M.Muller, the title-holder, by 2
yards in the 200 metres breaststroke Championship of Queensland. Meredith led all
the way.
Joan Speed, the Cairns champion, won the 100 metres Junior Freestyle in 1m 18
3/5s. D.Cordary (Lismore) was second, but could not claim any titles placing.
At this time the ASU of A was considering a tour of South Africa by Australian
swimmers.
Report from Capetown 20/1/39 - The South African Amateur Swimming Union at an
Executive meeting today decided unofficially, despite the disapproval of
Transvaal, that it was justified in making every endeavour to get Australian
swimmers to tour South Africa. A further meeting of the Executive will be held and
a decision in the affirmative is hoped to be made.
---------------------------------------C.M. Tuesday 24 January 1939
(Picture - Fleming and Nakama standing - Fleming head and shoulders taller.
Fleming is congratulating Nakama.)
ANOTHER RECORD BROKEN
NAKAMA’S FOURTH IN FIVE STARTS
MEMORABLE SWIMMING AT STATE CARNIVAL
Kyoshi Nakama, the Hawaiian swimmer, made his final appearance at the Valley
Baths last night memorable by giving the greatest display of speed over 200 metres
that has been seen in Brisbane. His figures for the distance, 2m 16 4/5s excelled
the previous best in the State of 2m 17 3/5s by Taris of France five years ago.
Nakama finished nearly 10 yards ahead of W.Fleming, second to him for the fourth
time in the carnival. As in other events, Fleming will hold the title.
In five events Nakama has broken an Australian and three Queensland records.
It was his intention to leave today for the south for the Australian
Championships, but has delayed his departure until tomorrow night to swim at
Sandgate tonight.
WON MEDLEY
At his own request so he could lose a race in Brisbane, Nakama competed in the
300 metres medley. He won that too, his freestyle pace over the last 100 metres
giving him several yards to spare over Keith Anderson (Townsville) who was ahead
of the Hawaiian at the end of the second section, the backstroke.
At the conclusion of the medley, the President of the Queensland Amateur
Swimming Association, Mr D.S.Carter, presented Nakamara with a large silver Cup.
IRIS TUBMAN’S TTLE
Iris Tubman made another remarkable swim when she registered 5m 54 4/5s for the
400 metres and beat the previous Queensland best time by 10 seconds. The second
competitor, Jean McKenzie of Rockhampton, was 7 1/5 secs behind her at the finish.
M.Inwood was third.
In the first event of the night, the Junior Womenís 50 metres Backstroke, a
title was lost when N.Bennett of Tewantin just defeated the holder, B.Hinchelwood.
The winner is only thirteen.
K.Anderson won another title and defeated A.Holder when he was second to the
ineligible Nakamara in the 300 metres medley. R.Campbell of Warwick (last yearís
winner) was third.
Pat Shanahan had an easy swim in the Women’s 200 metres Breaststroke. That
accounted for her time being 1 4/5 secs slower than when she won last season.
In the absence of Blow, the Junior 200 metres Freestyle Championship was won by
J.Murray.
SIX CHOSEN TO VISIT SOUTH
QLD SWIMMERS FOR NATIONAL TITLES
The Q.A.S.A selectors, Messrs T.Boast, L.Stanton, R.McKauge, unanimously
selected the following team for the Australian Championships to be conducted in
Melbourne and Hobart, commencing on February 4 1. W.Fleming; 2. G.Johnston; 3. R.Anderson; 4 (equal). R.Blow and J.Meredith.
The latter pair will be separated in the grading after the 800 metres on
Wednesday.
Blow and Meredith will pay their own expenses to the championship.
The Q.L.A.S.A have decided that Miss Iris Tubman will represent Queensland at
the championships.
The Manager is Mr D.S.Carter and the Chaperone Miss F.Granville.
--------------------------------C.M. Thursday 26 January 1939
BLOW WINS 800 IN BEST TIME BY A QUEENSLANDER
Rex Blow, the Sandgate swimmer, won the 800 metres Championship of Queensland
at the Valley Baths last night in 11m 18 1/5s, the best time ever established by a
Queenslander. M.Witt (Maryborough) the title-holder was 15 yards away, second.
A.Imrie (Valley) was third 10 yards behind Witt.
Blow’s time was 15 2/5secs better than Witt’s winning time last year, and 14
4/5 secs better than W.Fleming’s time in 1935.
Jack Medica, the world champion, holds the record at 10m 35 4/5s.
K.Anderson who has been selected to represent Queensland in the National
Titless, and who dead-heated with Blow in the 1500 State championship, could do no
better than fourth, 40 yards behind Blow. I.Waddell (Gladstone) led at the 100
metres but Blow went to the front at 150 metres and was never headed after.
MANY RECORDS
Miss J.Carruthers (Rockhampton) broke the record for the 50 metres 13 & Under
14 by 3 2/5secs. Miss C.Springfield, last year’s winner and record holder was
third.
J Stuart Parkinson, the Toowoomba junior, and J.MacTaggart (Church of England
Grammar School), raced neck and neck over the 200 metres Under 18 Championship.
Parkinson won by a touch in 2m 31 2/5s.
7 2/5 secs were clipped off the 100 metres Under 14 Championship title by
Howard Cook who came from Mosman to compete and swam the distance in 1m 12s and
won by 2 yards from N.Thomas (Valley).
Joan Speed (Cairns) defeated R.Gill (Rockhampton), the title-holder, by 3 yards
in the 50 metres Country Championship. Miss Speed’s time was 34 1/5secs.
The Rockhampton Club established a record of 23m 52s for the 250 metres Junior
Squadron Championship. They won by 3 yards from Valley, the holders.
BLOW TO GO WITH TEAM
QASA TO PAY HIS EXPENSES
A proposal to send the remainder of the State swimming team to Melbourne first
class was considered by the Queensland Amateur wimming Association last night but
was rejected. Instead it was decided to pay the expenses of R.Blow with the team.
Blow’s remarkable swim in the 800 metres last night when he lowered the State
record, influenced the decision. Previously Blow had intimated that he did not
intend to make the trip if he had to pay his own expenses.
Blow, G.Johnston, K.Anderson, J.Meredith, and Miss Iris Tubman, will leave by
the Kyogle train today
---------------------------------------
January 1939 (from McKauge's press clippings)
- Telegraph
WHO CONTROLS NAKAMA’S VISIT TO AUSTRALIA?
N.S.W or A.S.U"?
QLD SWIMMING SECRETARY'S PERTINENT QUERY
"So many remarks have been made by southern swimming officials in a section of
the southern press regarding Kiyoshi Nakama's tour of Queensland that I am
beginning to wonder if the New South Wales Association has usurped the power of
the Australian Swimming Union and has become the controlling body of Nakama's
tour."
Mr Ron McKauge, honorary secretary of the Queensland Amateur Swimming
Association, made this statement this morning when asked could he clear up any of
the misunderstandings that exist regarding the Hawaiian's visit.
"The New South Wales Association," Mr McKauge explained, "has requested in most
polite terms that the Queensland body send a manager to Sydney to conduct Nakama
to Queensland. A wire from the Australian Swimming Union instructs us to take over
Nakama's management from Wallangarra."
"This is only one of the many conflicting requests that are being received
daily through the New South Wales Association's attempt to manage the Hawaiian's
tour over the head of the A.S.U. Statements made by some southern officials
regarding the strenuous programme Queensland had arranged for the Hawaiian swimmer
were unfair," Mr McKauge pointed out.
The Victorian itinerary was pointed to with pride by an official. But this
State, that had contracted to take Nakama for two weeks, had made strenuous
efforts to have their time and their quota of the expense cut by half.
"The Victorian itinerary is small," stated Mr McKauge, "simply because there are
not sufficient keen swimming supporters to make it larger."
NAKAMA NOT CONSIDERED
Discussing N.S.W, the Queensland secretary made it clear that that body had
suggested that Murwillumbah take Nakama during his New South Wales tour. This
would have meant a long journey from Sydney almost to the Queensland border and
back to Sydney.
Murwillumbah would not agree, but this fact is pointed to by Mr McKauge as an
indication that New South Wales were not considering Nakama when this move was
suggested.
Mr McKauge concluded his explanation of the situation by stating that he had
received instructions from the A.S.U secretary, Mr J.P.Sheedy, stating clearly
that the swimmer's tour was in Queensland's hands from the moment Nakama reached
Wallangarra until he left the State.
"Nakama's tour of Queensland concerns only Nakama and the Queensland swimming
body," said Mr McKauge.
----------------------------------------------January 1939
ANOTHER SPORTSMAN VICTIMISED ?
Fleming out of Swimming Team for South Africa
After being considered in all the preliminary discussions of the Australian
swimming team to tour South Africa, W.Fleming (Queensland) was displaced today by
R.Wilshire, the New South Wales man, when the team was finally announced by the
Secretary of the Australian Swimming Union, Mr J.P.Sheedy.
When the matter of the tour was first mooted, the A.S.U secretary announced the
names of several swimmers who would be suitable. W.Fleming was included,
R.Wilshire was not. Later, the names of several alternative tourists was announced
by the A.S.U secretary, and again Fleming's name, and not Wilshire's, was in the
list. Today the team was finally announced with Wilshire filling the place of
Fleming.
FLEMING FASTER THAN WILSHIRE
Wilshire was chosen as a sprinter in the Australian Empire Games team, January
1939 and was out of the first four places in the final. In the same race Fleming
was the first Australian to finish, recording 61 seconds for the 110 yards.
It seems that a sprinter is necessary for the South African tour, but it is
very difficult to understand why Fleming should be overlooked at the last moment
in favour of a slower man, especially when the two other members of the team are
New South Wales men. The selection appears to be yet another example of
victimisation of sportsmen who wear the maroon Q, in favour of southern
performers.
The choice of both Ryan and Biddulph seems rather absurd when it is remembered
both are distance men, with Biddulph the better in all races. If South Africa is
looking for keen distance competition with their own swimmers, Biddulph would be
the draw card alone.
RAY OF HOPE
There is a ray of hope in the matter of Fleming's non-selection, however, for
the team will not leave Sydney until February 18, before which the annual
Conference of the Australian Swimming Union will be held. The Queensland delegate
to the Conference, Mr D.S.Carter, will probably ask some very pertinent questions
on the team's selection.
-----------------------------------------January 1939
SWIMMING STAR WITHDRAWS FROM STATE TEAM
OBJECTS TO TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS FOR MELBOURNE TRIP
W.Fleming, State swimming champion over three distances and first choice of the
State selectors for the Australian Championships in Melbourne, has informed the
Queensland Amateur Swimming Association's President, Mr D.S.Carter, that he is
unavailable.
Fleming's reasons are that he would not be able to do himself or the State
justice because of the travelling conditions for the team, and the brief time
allowed in Melbourne for preparation.
The team will travel second class without sleepers, leaving Brisbane on
Thursday and reaching Melbourne on Saturday. This will allow just four days for
the swimmers to recover from the ravages of two night's travel without sleep, and
this, the swimmer states, is not sufficient.
Fleming has a high reputation as a sprinter to keep up, and he considers it
unfair to expect him to throw off the detrimental effects of the arduous journey
to Melbourne and reproduce his best form in three days.
"PROBABLY MEAN MY SWAN SONG"
SAYS FLEMING
"I realise that my decision will probably mean my swan-song in Australian
swimming, but I feel the principle offers me no alternative," said Fleming in a
statement following his withdrawal.
"I have been officially informed by the Secretary of the Association that the
Queensland team, including myself, could not leave for the south before Thursday
morning. I have been also informed that we would travel second-class," he
remarked.
"I know what a second-class railway journey, even to Melbourne, really means to
an athlete, and I cannot conscientiously accept the trip on these conditions, more
especially when there is no good reason why I should not leave at least two days
earlier."
"This is not a selfish attitude, for really by my withdrawal another swimmer
will be entitled to the southern trip at the Association's expense. However few
realise what sacrifices are entailed in travelling on sporting trips for long
periods, and I could only make the trip if I were given a fair and square
opportunity to compete against the southern sprinters on equal terms.
"The unfair treatment meted out to me in the selection of the South African
team, when Wilshire was preferred, makes it more necessary that Queensland should
afford me an opportunity to arrive in Melbourne in sufficient time to be in my
best form for the sprint title race. My win in that event would be a Queensland
success rather than a personal one."
Brisbane Telegraph Items continued January 1939
FLEMING LEAVES FOR THE SOUTH
W.Fleming, holder of three Queensland swimming titles, and K.Nakama, champion
of Hawaii, left for the south yesterday to compete in the Australian Championships
in Melbourne and Hobart.
They will reach Melbourne on Friday, where Nakama will swim on Saturday.
Fleming's first swim will be on Tuesday.
The Queenslander travelled second class, but Nakama, who is the guest of the
Australian Swimming Association, travelled first class. He was accompanied by Mr
C.Ewing, a local sportsman.
Nakama said he had a very pleasant time in Queensland.
---------------------------------------------C.M. Saturday 28 January 1939
SWIMMERS METHOD OF TRAVEL
CRITICISM BY THE SOUTH
Melbourne, Friday
Mr H.A.Bennett, a selector of the Australian swimming team to attend the
Olympic Games, at a Reception for the interstate swimmers today criticised the
Queensland Amateur Swimming Association for sending its representatives to the
Australian Swimming Championships with only second class travelling facilities.
Mr Bennett said the journey was very hard on the swimmers who were travelling
all night. He had no doubt that the Association Executive when it travelled, went
first class, and he hoped the time was not far off when the Queensland Association
would see to it that its swimming champions were provided with the best travelling
facilities.
The National Championships open at Surrey Park tomorrow. Interstate swimmers
from New South Wales, Queensland, and Western Australia, as well as the Hawaiian
champion K.Nakama, were welcomed by Councillor F.Beaurepaire on behalf of the Lord
Mayor, Councillor Coles, at a Reception this afternoon.
It was explained in the Courier-Mail yesterday that most of those representing
Queensland in sport travel second class by train. Cricket, rugby league, and
tennis are the only sports which provide first class transport.
------------------------------------------
C.M. Wednesday 1 February 1939
NAKAMA WINS 880
CLEVER WIN BY 25 YARDS
POOL RECORDS GO IN NATIONAL TITLES
Melbourne, Tuesday
Swimming with unhurried grace K.Nakama, the Hawaiian champion, defeatd Robin
Biddulph (NSW) by 25 yards in the 880 yards Freestyle Championship of Australia at
the Olympic Pool last night. Nakama swam shrewdly, allowing Biddulph to make the
pace at the start. He overtook the Sydneysider after 330 yards and won with ease.
Two Victorian records were broken during the night and a third new time was
established in the 220 yards intermediate championship.
The night’s biggest sensation was the defeat of Miss Dorothy Green of Western
Australia by Miss M.Steele of New South Wales in the 440 yards freestyle
championship. Miss I.Tubman (Qld) swam well to get second place.
TWO MORE FALSE STARTS
Two false starts set the crowd roaring before the women got away in the quarter
mile. Miss M.Steele went away from the start with Miss Tubman and Miss Green close
behind. At 110 yards Miss Tubman set up a lead of 1 yard, but at the 220 yards
mark Miss Steele and Miss Green overhauled her. Miss Steele went right away in the
last two laps and by the last turn led by an unbeatable margin. Miss Green was
tiring fast and Miss Tubman passed her 20 yards from home.
Results - Australian Championshps
110 yards Backstroke - R.Bassingthwaite (NSW)1, J.Thistlethwaite (Vic) 2, F.French
3
880 yards Freestyle - K.Nakama (Hawaii) 1, R.Biddulph (NSW) 2, R.Blow (Qld) 3,
G.Valentine (NSW) 4
Time 10ms 27s
Women’s 440 yards Freestyle - M.Steele (NSW) 1, I.Tubman (Qld) 2, D.J.Green (WA)
3, Time 5m 53 2/5s.
OLYMPIC SWIMMING PLANS
The Annual Conference of the Amateur Swimming Union of Australia decided that
State and Australian Championships will be part of the National Jubilee to be held
in Sydney in 1942. On the grounds that it was opposed to the principles of the
International Federation, permission to hold World Championships at the Jubilee
was not granted.
A motion by the Queensland delegate that standard times for various events in
Australian tests for Olympic representation be sent to the States six months
before the date of the tests was lost after discussion. It was held by Conference
that under this system smaller States where swimming was only a summer sport would
not be represented at all, and a resulting lack of interstate interest might
damage the support to run the tests.
The Conference decided that for the next Olympic Games swimmers would select
their own representatives, manager, and coaches, and subject to approval by the
Australian Olympic Federation on matters of moral conduct and health, they should
not afterwards be interfered with.
It was agreed that tests should be held in central cities under conditions
conforming to Olympic standards, and that particularly that such events be held
where there would be of the greatest interest.
---------------------------------------
C.M. Thursday 2 February 1939
HIGH DIVING RECORD BY MASTERS
Melbourne, Wednesday
R.Masters (Vic) won the Australian High Diving Championshipp at the Brunswick
Baths this afternoon. Masters scored 108.11 points, the highest ever recorded in
Australia for an event of this kind.
Miss Irene Donnet (Vic) won the Women’s Championship.
Results ñ
Men - R.Masters (Vic) 108.11 1, A.O’Connor (NSW) 89.92 2, A.Coombes (SA) 77.75 3
Women - Irene Donnet (Vic) 34.96 1, L.Hawe (NSW) 62.16 2.
NAKAMA’S EASY WIN - QUEENSLANDER THIRD
At the annual military swimming carnival at the Richmond Baths tonight, the
1650 yards Australian Championship was decided and resulted in an easy win for
K.Nakama (Hawaii) from Robin Biddulph (NSW) and R.Blow (Qld).
Neither Biddulph or Blow had any chance of beating the visiting champion.
Nakama’s time was 20m 26s. K.Anderson (Qld) also started.
C.M. Friday 3 February 1939
NAKAMA’S FOURTH TITLE
DEFEATS OUR BEST SPRINTERS
VICTORIAN TOO GOOD FOR FLEMING
Melbourne, Thursday
Heading the Australian sprint champions home in the 110 yards National
Championship at the Olympic Pool tonight, Stewart, a young Melbourne swimmer, was
greeted with cheers. He was second to Hawaiian champion Nakama, and was the first
Victorian to win the title since just after the war. Winning the 110 yards made
Nakamaís fourth in Australian Championships since he came to Melbourne. He is not
eligible to hold the Australian title which goes to the man finishing second to
him in each case.
Miss Irene Donnet retained her Australian Springboard title after an upset due
to the late arrival of an official and the postponement of the event.
In the Women’s National Half Mile event, Miss Steele (NSW) who took the 440
title on Tuesday, led from the start to the finish and won by 55 yards.
R.Cornforth (NSW) finished strongly in the last lap of the 220 yards
breaststroke to win from J.Johnston (Vic).
QUEENSLANDER SECOND
Miss Steele went to the front from the beginning of the Women’s Half Mile and
continued to increase her lead throughout the race. Only three girls started.
I.Holman (Qld) was second, well ahead of B.Hyde who was a substitute starter for
Victoria.
W.Fleming (Qld) broke at the start of the 110 yards but the swimmers were not
brought back. Stewart quickly went to the front but was caught by Nakama and
Fleming. Stewart was in second place at the turn when Nakama who had been content
to hold the field, shot away. He won by 2 yards. Stewart, finishing strongly, held
off Fleming and Wiltshire who were separated by a touch.
Stewart was the first Victorian to win since Ivan Stedman won in 1922.
It was impossible to say how the bad start affected the chances of the other
swimmers.
The other surprise was the inclusion of R.Wiltshire, the New South Wales sprint
champion who flew over without telling the Manager of the team that he was coming.
CAMERON’S BEST
Cameron, the Victorian champion, was first to show in the breaststroke event
and turned ahead of Cornforth (NSW). Johnston, the former South Australian
champion and Victorian second string, swam into third place at the turn displacing
Meredith. Cameron had a 3 yard advantage at the half way with Johnston drawing up.
The pair turned together for the last lap but Cornforth finished with a tremendous
burst to catch and pass him. Cornforth was 5 yards ahead of Johnston who beat
Cameron for second place by a touch. Cook (Tas) was fourth with L Holle (Vic)
fifth.
Results Men - 110 yards Championship of Australia - K.Nakama (Hawaii) 1, Stewart (Vic)
2, W.Fleming (Qld) 3, Wiltshire (NSW) 4. Time 63 2/5secs.
220 yards Breaststroke Championsip of Australia - R.Cornforth (NSW) 1,
J.Johnston (Vic) 2, R.Cameron (Vic) 3. Time 3m 6s
Women - 880 yards Championship of Australia - M.Steele (NSW) 1, A.Holman (Qld)
2, B.Hyde (Vic) 3.
Time 12m 35 2/5s
Springboard Diving Championship of Australia - I.Donnet (Vic) 1, L.Hawe (NSW) 2
BLOW’S LAST MINUTE TRIP WAS JUSTIFIED
Rex Blow and Iris Tubman did Queensland Swimming credit being runners-up in
three National Titles in this week. Blow is fortunate to be there. The decision to
pay his expenses was made by the Queensland Amateur Swimming Association after his
success in the 800 metres State championship, a little more that twelve hours
before he had to catch his train. No one expected him to beat Nakama over 880
yards or even be a challenger. He would make him do his best.
--------------------------------------------C.M. Monday 6 February 1939
SWIMMERS FOR SOUTH AFRICA
HITCH IN TRANSPORT PLANS
Hobart, Sunday
Although all arrangements had been made for an Australian team consisting of
N.Ryan, R.Wilshire (NSW), and R.Masters (Vic), to tour South Africa, no
accommodation was available on the Anchises which is due to leave Sydney on
February 18.
The Secretary of the Amateur Swimming Union of Australia, Mr J.P.Sheedy, said
today that to avoid the abandonment of the tour steps had been taken to secure
berths on the Necktar which was listed to leave Fremantle on February 18. If the
Union was successful in securing berths on this vessel the three swimmers would
travel to Western Australia by train, leaving Sydney on February 11 and arriving
in Perth on February 15.
-------------------------C.M. Tuesday 7 February 1939
GIRL’S FAST TIME - SWIMMING TITLES
ANOTHER WIN FOR NAKAMA
Hobart, Monday
The outstanding feature of the Australian National Swimming Championships at
Hobart tonight was the magnificent performance of Miss G.Millard (NSW) in creating
an Australian women’s backstroke record for 110 yards and defeating the title
holder, Miss P.Norton (NSW).
The most exciting contest was provided by K.Nakama the Hawaiian and R.Biddulph
(NSW) in the 220 yards men’s freestyle after a neck and neck fight. Nakama won by
a yard. W.Fleming was third.
The National Title for 110 yards junior women’s freestyle was gained by Miss
N.Coulson who narrowly defeated the Western Australian, Miss J.Williams.
LED ALL THE WAY
Miss Millard jumped away with a large start in the 110 yards Backstroke
Championship and turned at 55 yards in 36 secs, 2 yards ahead of Miss Norton, with
Miss Tubman (Qld) close up. Miss Millard lost some time on the ropes of her lane
in the middle of the last lap and it looked as though Miss Norton could pass her,
but she drew slowly away to win by a length with 2 yards between second and third.
Miss Norton’s previous record was eclipsed by more than a second.
GREAT FIGHT
Biddulph got a slight lead early in the men’s 220 yards freestyle, but he and
Nakama turned together at 55 yards in 30 4/5 secs. Fleming, too, was close up.
Biddulph then drew away only to be passed again by Nakama who touched just in
front of him at 110 yards in 1m 6s. Both turned together for the last 55 yards but
Nakama came away slowly, and though Biddulph made a great effort, the Hawaiian won
by a yard with Fleming 10 yards away.
Coulson gained a slight lead soon after the start of the 110 yards Junior
Womenís Freestyle with the others close together. At 55 yards she touched just in
front of Miss J.Williams (WA) and a great tussle ensued between them for the
remainder of the race.. Williams lost some ground on the ropes. It was Coulson’s
second success at the carnival having won the 110 yards Junior Championship of
Tasmania on Saturday.
Results 110 yards Junior Women’s Freestyle - N.Coulson (NSW) 1, J.Williams (WA) 2,
P.bales (Vic) 3
Time 1m 15 2/5s
220 yards Men’s Freestyle Championship - N.Nakama (Hawaii) 1, R.Biddulph (NSW)
2, W.Fleming (Qld) 3, G.Valentine (NSW) 4
Time 2m 16 3/5s
110 yards Women’s Backstroke Championship - G.Millard (NSW) 1, P.Norton (NSW) 2,
I.Tubman (Qld) 3
Time 1m 16 3/5s an Australian record
------------------------------------------C.M. Wednesday 8 February 1939
LAST SPEEDO SHIELD CARNIVAL
At the Manly Pool last night the Speedo Shield in the senior and junior
competition was advanced another stage. Teams were present from all the
metropolitan Clubs. The programme included metropolitan championships as well as
Moreton Bay Club events.
Speedo Shield - Junior men - Telegraph 1, Valley 2, City Pastime 3.
Ladies - City Pastime 1, Moreton Bay 2, Sandgate 3.
Senior men - City pastime 1, Courier Mail 2, Valley 3
SWIMMERS FOR SOUTH AFRICA LEAVING HOBART ON SATURDAY
Hon Secretary of the ASU of A, Mr J.P.Sheedy, said today that arrangements had
been completed for the Australian swimmers Ryan, Wilshire, and Masters, to proceed
to South Africa by the steamer Necktar which is timed to leave Hobart on Saturday
afternoon next.
Masters will fly to Hobart on Friday, and Ryan and Wilshire are being advised
to leave Sydney by aeroplane on Saturday for Hobart to join the ship.
Mr Sheedy said that in view of the arrangements now made, time would be
available for Ryan to contest the 440 yards Championship, of Australia at the
Sandy Bay Baths with Nakama and Biddulph. Wilshire would contest one of the other
events.
C.M. Monday 13 February 1939
THREE SWIMMING TITLES CHANGE HANDS
Hobart, Sunday
Three Australian swimming titles changed hands on the concluding day at the
Swimming Championships at the Sandy Bay Baths on Saturday. Miss P.Norton (NSW)
took the 220 yards Women’s Freestyle Championship from Miss D.J.Green (WA),
R.Masters (Vic) won the Springboard Diving Championships defeating A.O’Connor
(NSW) and G.Johnston (Qld), and Kyoshi Nakama, the Hawaiia visitor, won the 440
yards Freestyle Championship in brilliant style. N.Ryan, the title-holder, was not
a starter.
NAKAMA NOT HEADED
The 440 yards championship resolved itself into a race between Nakama and
Biddulph. Nakama was never headed, but Biddulph hung on tenaciously and was never
more than 5 yards behind. Fleming (Qld) was 30 yards away in third place.
Miss P.Norton (NSW) swam brilliantly in the Women’s 220 yards Freestyle. She
had a great tussle with Miss D.J.Green (WA) the title-holder over the first 110
yards, and after throwing her off had to withstand successive challenges from
N.Coulson (NSW) and I.Tubman (Qld). Howwever she was not headed and won by 6
yards.
Results 220 yards Women’s Freestyle - Miss P.Norton (NSW) 2m 41s 1, Miss I.Tubman (Qld)
2m 43 2/5s 2, Miss J.Holman (WA) 22m 45 3/5 3
Springboard Diving - R.Masters (Vic) 1, A.O’Connor (NSW) 2, G.Johnston (Qld) 3
440 yards Men’s Freesyle - Kyopshi Nakama (Hawaii) 4m56s 1, R.Biddulph (NSW) 4m
58 1/5s 2, W.Fleming (Qld) 5m 28 1/5 3.
----------------------------------------C.M. Friday 17 February 1939
3000 WILL LEARN TO SWIM
COURIER MAIL CLASSES START ON MONDAY
So great has been the response to the Courier Mail’s offer of free tuition in
swimming, that about 3,000 pupils of various ages will start their courses of 10
days instruction at the various baths throughout the metropolitan area on Monday.
The course will continue daily until concluding on March 3, except on Saturday
and Sunday February 25 and 26.
Baths ñ Valley, Ithaca, Toowong, Sandgate, Davies Park, Mowbray Park, Spring
Hill, Manly, Cannon Hill School, Coorparoo School, and Greenslopes School.
------------------------------------------------C.M. Thursday 23 February 1939
VALLEY WINS TITLE
GOAL TO SPARE AT WATER POLO
The Valley White team won the Water Polo Premiership in the Grand Final of the
competition for the Worfold Shield at the Y.M.C.A. swimming carnival last night.
They defeated City Pastime by 3 goals to 2 in the hardest game of the season.
C.M. Thursday 9 March 1939
SPEEDO SHIELD TO VALLEY
Although they failed to obtain a place in the finals of the Speedo Shield
competition last night, the Valley Club’s A team with 15 points won the
Metropolitan Swimming Association’s Trophy by 2 points from the City Pastime A
team. Postal Institute was third (12 points) and Moreton Bay and the Courier Mail
fourth with 11 points each.
Valley had established such a good grip on the Shield that only a win by the
Courier Mail team, which up to last night was runners-up, would have affected
their position. The Courier Mail, however, was unable to field a team, so Valley’s
lead was unassailable.
Placings in the final race were ñ Postal Institute 1, City Pastime A 2, City
Pastime B 3.
The women’s relay series was won by the Sandgate Club which also was not placed
in last night’s final race. The team secured 15 points compared with 14 points by
the Moreton Bay Club and the Pastime A team.
Moreton Bay with 18 points won the Association’s Cup relay, Telegraph and
Valley teams (each 17 points) were second.
------------------------------------------C.M. Wednesday 15 March 1939
SWIMMING STARS IN PUBLIC SERVICE SWIM
The State champion, W.Fleming, led the Lands Department team to victory over
fourteen teams representing Government Departments at the Fourth Annual Civil
Service Swimming Carnival at the Valley Baths last night.
Fleming won the 50 metres freestyle championship from J.Howard (Taxation) and
R.Blow (Commonwealth Bank) in 28 seconds, and the 50 metres backstroke
championship from K.Moreton (Teachers Training College) in 35 4/5 seconds. He was
also the main-stay in the Lands Department relay team which won the 4x50 metres
championship in 2m 5 2/5 s.
Although the Forestry No 2 team broke their submitted time by 11 4/5 secs, they
won the Telegraph Cup for the handicap relay. The team breaking by 12 seconds or
more, it would have been disqualified.
Lands Department No 3 team which was second broke their time by 10 seconds, and
Labour and Industry (Relief Branch) which was third, broke their time by 9
seconds.
R.Stewart (Taxation) narrowly won the Valley Championship of the Service from
R.Clancy (labour and Industry) and L.Corvi (Post Office).
The 50 metres breaststroke championship was won by H.Saunders (Commonwealth
Bank) in 42 seconds
Miss M Cuzzu (City Council) won the 50 metres women’s championship from Midd
E.brenter (Taxation), the only other competitor.
Championship points were Lands Department 20, Taxation 16, Commonwealth Bank 6.
It was also noted that the Bremer River 3 mile swim was to be held on March 16.
-------------------------------------------
C.M. Saturday 8 April 1939
CRATE SWIMMER TO CROSS BRAMBLE BAY
With his legs protected from blubber and lice and swimming inside a crate,
Peter McMillan, Captain of the Sandgate Amateur Swimming Club and well known in
the Bremer river 3 mile events, will attempt to cross Bramble Bay from Woody Point
to Sandgate on Monday.
Since the Sandgate Amateur Swimming Club was formed in 1924, it has been the
ambition of some of its members to accomplish the feat. Peter McMillan, 20 years
of age, 5 feet 4 inches in height, has been selected for the distinction. As
protection from sharks he will swim inside a crate about 12 feet long, 8 feet
wide, and 4 feet deep. It is made of wood covered with 2 inch wire netting and
buoyed at each corner by an empty oil drum. It will be towed behind an old sailing
boat which has been fitted with an engine. It may be possible to delay the start
to 9am for the benefit of intending spectators at Sandgate jetty. The distance of
about 4 miles should be crossed in a little over 2 hours.
(Was this the precursor of the Magnetic Island-Townsville swim initiated in
1954 and also held in cages, and a swim by Steven Holland across part of Moreton
Bay in the 60’s? The publication “Cage” produced to celebrate the fiftieth year
since the first Magnetic Island -Townsville crossing, produced in 2004, lists
swimmers of each year of competition among whom are many notable names of later
years who were winners - John Rigby 1963, Craig Crozier 1970 & 1971, Justin
Lemberg 1983, Michael McKenzie 1985 and 1988, Steven Holland 1986, and Duncan
Armstrong 1989.
Ed)
----------------------------------------Brisbane Telegraph 10 April 1939
SWAM FIVE MILES IN CRATE
WORRIED BY BLUBBERS
Peter McMillan, of Sandgate, swam from Woody Point Pier to Sandgate Pier
yesterday, covering five miles in 2 hours 52 minutes.
Enclosed in a crate 12 feet by 8 feet and 4 feet deep and towed by a motor
boat, he left Woody Point at two minutes past nine and reached Sandgate at 11.56.
He swam overarm all the way and was always close to the front of the crate. After
the first half mile water and other conditions were perfect.
He was comparatively fresh after his strenuous swim but commented, "I don't
want to do any more of that."
TROUBLE WITH EYES
Thousands of blubbers caused trouble opposite the mouth of the Pine River. It
was necessary to stop for a few minutes while the President of the Sandgate
Swimming Club (Mr R.McKauge) which sponsored the swim, removed as many as he could
from the wire netting of the crate.
As far as those in the launch knew, sharks were not interested in the swimmer.
Courier Mail Friday 6 October 1939
SWIMMING PLANS
In spite of the fact several important positions have not been filled at the
first Council Meeting for next Monday night, the Queensland Amateur Swimming
Association will be ready to make its plans for the 1939-40 season.
Last season was memorable and profitable by the visit of Nakama, the skilful
Hawaiian swimmer. Carnivals at which he appeared were such a success that the
Association has a Credit Balance of £25 for the first time in many years.
At this stage it appears the State and Country Championships will be the
season's main attraction as there will be many factors operating against the
chance of arranging for an overseas swimmer to make a tour.
At the Annual Meeting of the Queensland Amateur Swimming Association on Monday
night, W.Fleming, State triple title-holder, urged that the championships be held
earlier, but the main difficulty would be the extra leave of absence for country
swimmers who may be selected for national championships.
CLASH OF DATES
Speedo Shield contests now are to have a good following again. At the Q.A.S.A
Annual Meeting Mr H.Wier complained that Club swims had clashed with Shield swims
twice last season.
The Secretary, Mr R.McKauge, and the Treasurer, Mr V.Hartley, have been reelected without opposition. Mr Hartley had been in office for six years and Mr
McKAuge was starting his fifth year.
Nominations for Executive closed at the meeting. Mr J.Whittington has gone to
Mareeba and will not be a candidate. He was also a joint Handicapper with Mr
J.Montgomery who will act alone in accordance with
a decision at the Annual
Meeting.
------------------------------------------C.M. Tuesday 10 October 1939
SWIMMING TITLES
DATES NOT YET ALLOCATED
The dates for the Queensland Swimming Championships will be decided at the next
Council meeting of the Q.A.S.A, following discussions at the Council meeting last
night. The President, Mr D.S.Carter, said that it was not known when the National
Title would be decided.
Because of the probable cancellation of the Olympiad next year, Western
Australia has applied for restoration of the carnivals to Adelaide and Perth.
Messrs R.Horsley, E.O'Brien, H.Collings, K.Rankine, and R.Hodge, were elected
to the Executive.
It was decided that the suspension of the Warwick Club be lifted.
The Courier Mail was granted registration as a House Club.
An all day carnival will be held at the Clontarf shark-proof enclosure on
November 12.
CLUB OPENINGS
Most Brisbane swimming clubs will have opened their season before the end of
the week. The Federal Women's Club made a start at the Valley Baths last night,
the two Commercial Clubs will open their season tonight, and the Valley Clubs will
have a combined opening tomorrow night.
--------------------------------------------
C.M. Wednesday 25 October 1939
SWIMMER FACES QUESTIONS
Perth Wednesday
The 440 yards Empire freestyle champion is an attendant at the Kalgoorlie Pool
and the Kalgoorlie Club has asked the West Australian Amateur Swimming Association
whether she has forfeited her amateur status.
The question has been referred to the Amateur Swimming Union of Australia for a
ruling.
The rules and regulations of the Federation Internationale Natation Amateur
provide that a swimmer becomes ineligible to compete as an amateur by engaging for
remuneration directly or indirectly in duties of baths attendant, but can be
reinstated ninety days after retiring from the position.
“Miss Green would not forfeit her status if the duties did not go beyond taking
money at the turnstiles,” was expressed by the President (Mr G.J.Kilpatrick) at an
Australian Association meeting last night.
--------------------------------------C.M. Thursday 2 November 1939
STATE STARS MAY TOUR
SWIMMING PLAN
Tours of Queensland by State swimming champions may be arranged this season.
(These did not ultimately eventuate as there was lack of suitably accredited
swimmers).
The Olympic swimming tests which were fixed for Sydney and Melbourne in January
are almost certain to be cancelled.
Western Australian has made a request for reversion to the original schedule to
stage the National Championships in Adelaide and Perth. It is expected that the
Queensland Amateur Swimming Association will oppose the suggestion.
STRONG TEAM FOR SOUTHPORT
State and metropolitan champions will make their initial appearance in interclub competition at Southport on Thursday November 9.
The Brisbane team will include Misses P.Shanahan, I.Tubman, M.McKim, and
W.Fleming,
K.Horn, A.Imrie, R.McMillan, and R.Campbell
--------------------------------------------C.M. Friday 10 November 1939
QUEENSLAND OPPOSES HOLDING THE NATIONAL TITLES
The Queensland Amateur Swimming Association has advised the Australian body
that it is in favour of suspension of the National Titles this year because of the
military duties of swimmers making it difficult to be adequately represented.
Other State bodies also have been asked for their views.
HEATS BEFORE CARNIVALS
The QASA Council has decided to eliminate heats of handicap events at future
championship carnivals which will comprise practically all scratch events. The
heats of all handicap events will be conducted the night before the carnival, at
the State Championships.
C.M. Tuesday 14 November 1939
SHIELD SWIM TONIGHT
TITLE AT STAKE
The Speedo Shield competition for the 1939-1940 season begins at the Manly
Baths tonight. It will be under the control of the metropolitan clubs, and two
metropolitan championships will be decided at the carnival.
Teams nominated for the carnival are Valley, Telegraph, and Commercial.
---------------------- -----------------C.M. Wednesday 15 November
IMRIE WINS EASILY
MEDLEY SPRINT TO CAMPBELL
Swimming the distance in 5 mins 22 secs, Alan Imrie (Valley) won the 400 yards
freestyle at the metropolitan championships at the Valley Baths last night.
R.Campbell, current Queensland medley champion and former country freestyle
champion, won the 300 yards senior medley championship.
The Speed Shield competitions for the 1939-1940 season were launched, with the
Moreton Bay Club winning the men’s, women’s and junior relays.
----------------------------------------C.M. Saturday 18 November 1939
SWIMMERS VOTE FOR TITLES FOR JANUARY 27
Perth Friday
The Secretary of the Amateur Swimming Union of Australia said tonight that as
a result of the mail vote of the six State Associations, the Australian National
Swimming Championships would be held in Western Australia and South Australia. The
majority of the State Associations favoured the agreement.
---------------------------------------C.M. Thursday 23 November 1939
SWIMMING TITLES
TALENT SEARCH
Queensland swimming this year will be faced with a problem of replacing two
out- standing champions, W.Fleming and R.Blow who have joined the Second A.I.F.
R.Campbell, country freestyle champion, is now living in Brisbane and has only
to reproduce his last seasonís form to make him favourite for the 100 metres
title.
Ian Wedlock, R.Hamilton (Longreach), will compete. Queenslandís greatest
prospect however is J.Stuart Parkinson, secondary schools Under 18 freestyle
champion.
There is now a dearth of good distance swimmers, and on the early season form
Anderson, Witt, and Imrie appear the outstanding contenders.
(The followed reports of some club swims - Sandgate, Moreton Bay, Valley Men,
and Valley Women.)
Some ladies results A Senior 40 yards: P.Shanahan 1, I.Tubman 2, A.Frederich 3
B Senior 40 yards: J.Whitehouse 1, B.Jones 2, J.Craig 3
C.Senior 40 yards: M.Shaw 1, F.Abrahams 2, F.Cornwall 3
A.Junior 50 yards: J.Walpole 1, C.Springfield 2, J.Miles 3
B Junior 20 yards Backstroke: C.Whitehouse 1, C.Eldred 2, B.Cartwright 3
Dive: P.Shanahan 1, B.Wilson 2, C.Springfield 3.
---------------------------------------
C.M. Friday 24 November 1939
THREE RACES TO IRIS TUBMAN
A.I.F.MEN SWIM AT SOUTHPORT
Miss Iris Tubman, Queensland’s freestyle champion, was the most prominent of
the Brisbane swimmers at the Southport Amateur Swimming Club’s carnival tonight.
She won three events.
Other State and metropolitan champions who took part were W.Fleming, Rex Blow,
and Alan Imrie. Fleming, Blow, and another competitor P.Thompson, members of the
Second A.I.F. obtained leave to take part. Rain insurance of £25 was collected.
-----------------------------------------------C.M. Tuesday 28 November 1939
TITLE IN FIRST SWIM FOR HORN
Though he had been sick for a month and it was his first swim for more than
that time, Kevin Horn was victor in the 100 yards backstroke at the Eagers Speedo
Shield carnival at the Spring Hill Baths last night.
Miss M.McKim was successful in the 100 yards metropolitan ladies backstroke
championship. An exhibition swim was given by Miss Tubman.
Results Ladies Intermediate Metropolitan Backstroke Championship - Miss M.McKim,
(Sandgate) 1, M.Inwood 2, M.Collings 3. Time 1.25 1/5
Ladies 200 yards Relay - Valley Junior 1, Valley B 2, Commercial 3
200 yards Speedo Relay - Sandgate 1, Postal Institute 2.
State and Country Championships will be held on January 12, 15, and 17. Change
will be made because of the difficulty country swimmers in obtaining leave from
their employment immediately after the Christmas holidays.
----------------------------------------------C.M. Thursday 30 November 1939
The absence of star lady competitors is regrettable for the improved form of
Iris Tubman suggests that the Queensland girl would defeat all comers in the
present circumstances. These would seem hollow victories. The success of Miss
Tubman in freestyle events would give Queensland the Corbett Shield in the matter
of Australian women’s swimming supremacy.
A report from Cairns suggests that the Club has unearthed another prospective
junior lady champion in 14 year old Flora May. Miss May travels 25 miles each week
to compete in inter-club events, and last week was credited with covering the 50
yards in 30 3/5 seconds.
J Stuart Parkinson, Under 18 years champion who has completed his scholastic
duties for the year, has returned to Toowoomba to undergo solid preparation for
the Open events in January.
(Club swim results given for Sandgate, Moreton Bay, Postal Institute, and Valley
Clubs)
C.M. Friday 1 December 1939
MERCANTILE RELAY
More than 100 teams representing various metropolitan business houses were
nominated for Valley Club’s annual mercantile relay carnival in the Valley Baths
next Wednesday night.
The winning team will hold the Elphingston Shield for
twelve months, and each successful team member will receive a Cup.
C.M. Thursday 7 December 1939
NORTON OR STEELE
STAR SWIMMER SOUGHT
The appearance of Pat Norton and Myee Steele, both of Sydney, have been secured
for the Queensland Swimming Championships in Brisbane in January. Miss Iris Tubman
(Q) is a swimmer of high calibre, but her value as a competitor would be lost in
the Championships as there is no swimmer in the State who could extend her.
Miss Tubman was runner-up to the Olympic representative Pat Norton in last
season’s national sprint titles, and she also finished second to Myee Steele in
the distance events. Miss Tubman has improved considerably since then and
competition from either of the two Sydney swimmers would add considerably to the
State Titles.
The financial success of last season’s championships when Nakama Kayoshi was a
competitor has prompted the QASA to invite outstanding opponents to compete in
these events.
The North Queensland Championships will be contested in Cairns on Saturday
December 16 and Sunday December 17. North Queensland has produced many State
champions and the results of this season’s events will be keenly awaited as Flora
May, Howard Cook, and Norm Wedlock, are expected to record outstanding
performances in their respective events.
--------------------------------------C.M. Tuesday 12 December 1939
PAT NORTON TO SWIM FOR TITLES
Pat Norton, Australian 100 metres women’s swimming champion and Empire Games
backstroke champion will compete in the State and Country Championships on January
12, 15, and 17.
The 440 and 88 yards champion, Myee Steele has also stated that she is willing
to compete.
The Queensland Amateur Swimming Association has tried to secure the services of
either of these ladies, and now might decide to invite both.
-------------------------------------------C.M. Friday 15 December 1939
IMRIE STATE CHAMPION
CITY SWIMMING TITLE
Alan Imrie, Valley Club swimmer, retained his 800 metres title at the
Metropolitan Championships and Speedo carnival at the Valley Baths last night
after leading all the way from the Sandgate contender, B.McMillan who was also
runner-up last year.
The 100 metres Championship was won by the former country champion Rod Campbell
who defeated F.Trenfield by a yard. Campbell’s time was 67 2/5 seconds.
Great surprise was occasioned when Commrecial A was announced the winner of the
Speedo Relay. The first four teams to finish were disqualified for breaking their
times by more than the six seconds margin which was allowed. They were Postal
Institute, Moreton Bay, telegraph, and Sandgate.
-----------------------------------------
C.M.
Saturday 6 January 1940
WOMEN’S TITLES IN SWIMMING
MAY HOLD THEIR OWN CARNIVALS
The Queensland Amateur Swimming Association favours the running of women’s
Australian championships by women, as suggested by the Australian Swimming Union.
The women’s championships have been run by the ASU for a number of years. This
year Victoria formed a Women’s Amateur Swimming Association, making with
Queensland, New South Wales, and South Australia the fourth State in the women’s
body. Women swimmers now seem strong enough to hold their own carnivals.
There will be no entertainment for country swimmers this year during the State
and Country Championships, the exception being a Reception at Parliament House.
Pat Norton, visiting New South Wales swimmer and Empire champion, with a
Manageress will be met on arrival next Tuesday by a Ladies Committee. To enable
her to compete each night in the Queensland Championships, the medley, an event in
which she will swim, will be transferred to January 17, and will be replaced by
the breaststroke on January 12.
CUP DONATED TO WOMEN
As an encouragement to women who did not win a place in the Amateur Swimming
Association’s Championships, Mrs V McGregor-Lowndes has donated a Cup which will
be awarded to the most consistent performer, other than a place-getter.
The Southport Ladies Swimming Club, the latest Club to affiliate with the
Ladies Association, has sent in a pleasing number of entries for the championship
---------------------------------------C.M. Tuesday 9 January 1940
WOMEN BRING STARS TO MEET
The Queensland Swimming Championships commence at the Valley Baths on Friday
night, probably with a duel between Pat Norton, the Olympic representative at the
Berlin Games and holder of several Australian titles, and Iris Tubman, Queensland
champion. These swimmers have met several times with Miss Norton taking the
honours.
In the 200 yards in the Australian Championships in Hobart last February Miss
Tubman was second, six yards behind Miss Norton who won in 2 min 41 secs. They
were competitors in the 110 yards backstroke, won by Miss G.Millard (NSW) by ten
yards. Miss Norton was second and Miss Tubman third.
The Queenslander was second to Miss Myee Steele (NSW) in the 440 yards race,
Miss D.Green (WA) being third.
Miss Tubman has been swimming so well recently that Queenslanders have proved
no match for her.
Swimmers from as far north as Mareeba and as far west as Longreach will compete
for State titles.
------------------------------------
C.M. Friday 12 January 1940
STATE RECORD MAY GO
SWIMMING STARS MEET TONIGHT
MISSES NORTON, TUBMAN, IN 100 METRES TITLE
Although the absence of Bill Fleming and Rex Blow from the State and Country
Champion-ships - two high class performers ñ their absence should not detract from
the attractive- ness of the carnivals as competition for the vacated titles will
be keen.
Highlight of the opening carnival tonight will be the meeting of Iris Tubman
and Pat Norton in the 100 metres freestyle championship. No matter who wins, the
State record of 1 min 12 secs standing to the credit of Miss Tubman, is certain to
be broken. Miss Norton will compete in the 400 metres championship on Monday.
P.Shanahan should have no difficulty in retaining her 200 metres breaststroke
title with I.Tubman and N.Bennett the likely place-getters.
Six competitors will start in the 100metres Junior Womenís title, and the final
should be fought out by J.Carruthers (Rockhampton) and I.Brown (Townsville) and
C.Springfield (Valley).
-----------------------------C.M. Saturday 13 January 1940
(Picture of start of 400 metres freestyle championship of Queensland at the
Valley Baths last night, A.Imrie the winner.)
PAT NORTON JUST BEATS IRIS TUBMAN
RECORD TIME IN 100 METRES FREESTYLE
Iris Tubman, Queensland triple champion, swam valiantly against Pat Norton
(Sydney) in the women’s 100 metres freestyle event at the State and Country
Swimming Championships at the Valley Baths last night. She was defeated by only
1/5 second.
Alan Imrie secured his first State title in the 400 metres freestyle.
In the women’s 100 metres title eight competitors struck the water almost
simultaneously and the champions soon had the race to themselves. They turned
almost on terms and the Queensland girl stuck to her speedy opponent and nearly
made a dead heat of it. Miss Norton registered 1.11 3/5 and Miss Tubman 1.11 4/5,
both better times than Miss Tubman’s State record of 1.12.
P.Shanahan, defender of the 200 metres women’s breaststroke title, was
outclassed by Jo Lloyd, a Toowoomba competitor, who touched 7 3/5 seconds before
her. Miss Shanahan’s time was slower than when she won a year ago.
(Results given of other events)
-------------------------------------------C.M. Monday 15 January 1940
Results given of titles, including springboard diving, 100 metres freestyle,
100 metres junior men’s handicap, and 50 metres Axel Sousaari Memorial event.
----------------------------------------------
C.M. Tuesday 16 January 1940
PAT NORTON’S DOUBLE
MISS TUBMAN BEATEN TWICE
PARKINSON AND IMRIE CLAIM TITLES
Miss Pat Norton, holder of the Australian 200 metres freestyle championship and
a member of the Australian Olympic Team to Berlin in 1936, defeated Miss Iris
Tubman, Queensland triple champion, twice at the Queensland Amateur Swimming
Championships at the Valley baths last night, in the 100 metres backstroke and the
100 metres freestyle.
Men’s 100 metres freestyle championship, which was vacated by W.Fleming who is
in the Second A.I.F., was won by J Stuart Parkinson.
NEW RECORD
In the 200 metres Miss Norton and Miss Tubman soon left the others behind. At
150 metres the Sydney girl led by a narrow margin. She emphasised her superiority
in the final lap and touched with an advantage of 3 1/5 seconds. Miss L.Gill of
Rockhampton was third, a long way back.
It was a fine swim by Miss Norton whose swim was only 1/5 second slower than
the record held by Miss Joyce Cooper of England.
Miss Norton registered 1.23 for the 100 metres backstroke, 5 4/5 seconds faster
than Miss Tubman’s record time for Queensland, and 4 seconds faster than her time
last night.
The first title-holder to lose was Miss N.Bennett of Tewantin who finished
second to Miss Nancy Lyons (Valley) in the 50 metres junior championship. The time
was much slower than that of last year.
A country girl, Miss G.Butcher of Mareeba, took the 100 metres State title for
juniors.
(Picture - Competitors in the women’s 100 metres freestyle championship of
Queensland - M.Purtell (Southport), L.Chandler (Southport), B.Rubb (Townsville),
P.Norton (NSW), I.Tubman (Valley), N.McKim (Sandgate), M.Inwood (Valley).)
-------------------------------------------C.M. Wednesday 17 January
(Pictures
- 1. Elimination heats of the women’s 50 metres handicap at the
Valley Baths last night - J.Carruthers (Rockhampton), Y.Massoud (Tewantin), Nancy
Lyons (Valley).
2. Finalists in the Kieran Memorial 100 metres handicap to be swum
tonight - C.Barnes (Fitzroy), A.Wood (Mareeba).
-----------------------------------------C.M. Wednesday 17 January 1940
IRIS TUBMAN IN NATIONAL TITLES
Iris Tubman, Queensland champion freestyle and backstroke swimmer, will leave
Brisbane on Friday for the Australian Championships in Perth and Adelaide,
commencing in Perth on January 26. Her sister, Miss Doris Tubman, will act as
Manageress. Miss Tubman will enter for the 100 and 200 metres freestyle and the
100 metres backstroke championships in Perth, and the 400 metres freestyle in
Adelaide.
On return from Perth to Adelaide she may swim in the women’s 120 yards
freestyle event at the Kalgoorlie swimming carnival.
(She was the only Queensland representative to be selected)
----------------------------------------
C.M. Thursday 18 January 1940
IRIS TUBMAN’S TRIUMPH
DEFEATS PAT NORTON OVER 400 METRES
J.PARKINSON SCORES IN SPRINT SWIM
Queensland triple swimming champion, Miss Iris Tubman, was greeted with loud
cheers when she defeated Miss Pat Norton (Sydney) in the 400 metres freestyle
championship of Queensland at the Valley Baths last night.
This was the first time in four events that the Queensland girl had triumphed
over the visitor who is an Empire Games swimmer.
Of the four competitors in the 400 metres, Jean McKenzie was last away. Miss
Tubman dominated the early stages of the race. She and Miss Norton touched
together at 250 metres, but at the 300 metres Miss Norton had what seemed a
winning lead of about four yards. It was in the last lap the Queensland girl
predominated and finished with an advantage of only 1/5 second.
--------------------------------------------------C.M. Friday 26 January 1940
CHANCE FOR A TITLE
IRIS TUBMAN IN PERTH
Miss Iris Tubman, Queensland junior representative at the National Swimming
Championships beginning tomorrow in Perth is expected to win the 220 yards
freestyle next Wednesday night. If Miss Tubman succeeds it will be her first
senior national title.
On Monday night Miss Tubman will oppose Misses Dorothy Green and Evelyn de Lacy
in the 110 yards championship. Miss Norton, holder of the title who defeated Miss
Tubman in Brisbane, will be an absentee, but the holder of the Empire title, Miss
de Lacy, will prove a very difficult opponent for the Queenslander, while Dorothy
Green will only have to reproduce the form she displayed at the Empire Games to
make her a strong contender.
------------------------------------------C.M. Tuesday 30 January 1940
MISS TUBMAN THIRD IN SWIM TTLE
Perth, Monday
Miss Tubman (Qld) filled third place in the 110 yards women’s freestyle at the
National Championships tonight. The winner was Miss Evelyn de Lacy (WA) in the
time of 1.10 1/5.
Results 110 yards Women’s Freestyle Championship - title holder P.Norton (NSW) ‘
Australian record E de Lacy (WA), K.Mackay (NSW), Time 1.9 ‘ State record K.Mackay
- State resident - D.Greentime 1.10 8/10.
E de Lacy 1, D.Green 2, I.Tubman 3,
J.J.Davies (Vic) 4, Time 1.10 1/5.Won by a foot with half a yard between second
and third.
220 yards Women’s Breaststroke Australian National Championship - Title holder
J.Thompson (NSW) - Australian record G.Storey (England) 3.6 3/10 - State record
V.George (Vic) 3.162/5 - State resident D.Green 3.27 4/10.
V.George (Vic) 1,
N.Davey (NSW) 2, I.Hillingston (WA) 3, R.Breidahl (WA)4. Time 3.20 1/5. Won by 6
yards with 3 yards between second and third.
-----------------------------------------------
C.M. Thursday 1 February 1940
IRIS TUBMAN SECOND IN 220 TITLE
Perth, Wednesday
The Queenslander Iris Tubman was beaten by only a touch by D.Green (WA) in the
220 yards Women’s Australian Swimming Championships tonight. Evelyn de Lacy was
two yards away, third.
Results 220 yards Freestyle Women’s Australian Championship - title holder P.Norton (NSW)
- Australian record D.Green (WA) 2.32 2/10 - State record D.Green 2.37 6/10 D.Green 1, I.Tubman 2, Evelyn de Lacy (NSW) 3. Time 2.40 2/5
110 yards Backstroke Women’s Australian Championship - Tile holder G.Millard
(NSW) - Australian record G.Millard 1.18 6/10 - State record K.Mackay (NSW) 1.22 G.Millard (NSW) 1, B.Millard (NSW) 2, S.Gibson (WA) 3. Time 1.17 3/5 (Australian
record). Won by 10 yards.
UNION TO CONTROL WOMEN’S SWIMMING
The annual Conference of the Australian Swimming Union today rejected the
proposal that the Australian Women’s Association be allowed to hold their own
championships. It was decided that the Union would have the sole authority over
any suggested tours of swimmers from outside Australia.
Fear that New South Wales and Victoria would gain control led to considerable
opposition to the proposal by Mr S.B.Grange (NSW) for alteration to the
Constitution. This proposal provided for a Board of Control which would meet twice
a year with representatives in proportion to population.
The Conference agreed that the Constitution should be reviewed by each State
and that the replies together with the New South Wales proposal be sent to the
Executive for review and submission to the next Conference.
The Conference rejected the proposal that the annual Conference be held only be
held in Adelaide, Melbourne, and Sydney.
--------------------------------------C.M. Friday 2 February 1940
EAGERS WIN SHIELD
SWIM TITLE TO M.COLLINGS
Eagers won the final Speedo Shield relay by a touch from City Pastime at the
City Pastime Swimming Club’s carnival at Davies Park Baths last night.
In the 200 yards Ladies Metropolitan Championship M.Collings of City Pastime
defeated M.McKim of Sandgate.
------------------------------------------C.M. Thursday 8 February 1940
TUBMAN SECOND IN 440 YARDS FREESTYLE TITLE
Adelaide
Wednesday
D.J.Green (WA) won the 440 yards Women’s Freestyle Championship of Australia by
twelve yards from I.Tubman (Qld). Miss J.J.Davies, a 14 year old Victorian girl
was four yards away, third. Green’s time was fourteen seconds better than that
registered by M.Steele (NSW) last year.
-----------------------------------------------
C.M. Friday 16 February 1940
50 TEAMS IN CLUB SWIM
TAYLOR-ELLIOTTS WIN FINAL
With the only team they entered, Taylor-Elliotts won the South Brisbane
mercantile swimming relay for the Tristram Cup conducted by the City Pastime Club
at the Davies Park Baths last night. The City was captained by Miss Joyce Clark, a
member of the City Pastime Club.
The carnival was supported by firms from business houses. More than 50 teams
competed.
----------------------------------------C.M. Wednesday 28 February 1940
FLEMING’S LAST EFFORTS IN QUEENSLAND
W (Bill) Fleming, former State and national champion, last night made his last
appearance at a swimming carnival in Queensland before his departure overseas with
the Second A.I.F. His time was 56 seconds for the 100 yards.
In winning the 880 yards freestyle, B.Wilkes (Maroochy) set a new Race and Best
by Queensland record of 10.52.
Some ladies results City Pastime won the 1939-1940 Speedo Shield, finishing first in the final series
from the back mark.
The 200 yards Breaststroke title went to P.Shanahan (Val), and M.Collings (CP)
added another title to her list by winning the Junior 50 yards Backstroke.
200 metres Men’s Country Squadrons Championship - Cairns (A.Weatherburn,
M.Quickenden, N.Jones, A.Boundy) 1, Ipswich (P.Maxwell, C.Bannerman, J.McNamara,
V.Parslow) 2, Toowoomba (J.Rivett, D.Trenerry, R.Wise, K.Childs) 3. Time 1.37 2/5.
200 metres Men’s Sub-junior Squadrons Championship - Leander 1, Toowong 2, Dalby
3.
(Further results were given of men’s races)
-----------------------------------------C.M. Monday 4 March 1940
“LEARN TO SWIM” OPENS TODAY
The Courier Mail “Learn to Swim” campaign will be opened officially tonight
with a carnival at the Valley Baths at 8 o’clock.
Classes began during the day for about 2000 children and adults who have
enrolled. All public baths in the Greater Brisbane area and private baths attached
to several state schools are being used for the series of lessons.
Tonight’s carnival will include Brisbane v Air Force water polo, a display by
Miss Iris Tubman (Queensland champion), a diving display, a mannequin parade, and
relay races by members of the Defence Forces.
--------------------------------------C.M. Friday 8 March 1940
PAT SHANAHAN LIFE SAVING CHAMPION
Miss Pat Shanahan of the Dolphin Ladies Club won the Life Saving Championship
of Queensland for the fourth successive year in the carnival of the Royal Life
Saving Society, Queensland Head Centre, held at the Ithaca Baths last night.
Miss Shanahan gave a remarkable display of breaststroke swimming, fancy
movements, and towing.
(Picture included)
C.M. Tuesday 19 March 1940
RELAY SWIMS TO LABOUR OFFICE
The Civil Service relay handicap for the Telegraph Cup was won last night at
the Valley Baths by the Head Office of Labour and Industry.
This was the final carnival of the season for the Queensland Amateur Swimming
Association. The first finishing team touched with a large margin in the final but
broke their submitted time by 15 2/5 seconds and were disqualified. The member of
the team to swim the last lap showed a lack of judgement or she would have slowed
down, and saved the 5 2/5 seconds excess over the 10 minutes allowed, without risk
of being beaten.
The Tooth Shield was finalised with City Pastime with 41 points winning by 2
points from Commercial. City Pastime will hold the Shield for twelve months.
Results of ladies events 100 metres Breaststroke Scratch Race - R.Keenan (Com) 1, M.McKim (S/gate) 2,
J.Collings (CP) 3. Won by four yards. Time 1.52 3/5.
100 metres Senior Ladies Scratch Race - S.Rodwell (S/gate) 1, H.Shaw (CP) 2,
J.Muir (Lea)
Ladies Dive - J.Clarke (CP) 1, S.Sturdy (Moreton Bay) 2, J.Rodwell (S/gate ) 3.
-----------------------------------Undated Press Clipping - ? from 1940-41 season
SWIMMERS ANSWER THE CALL
The call of King and Country has been answered readily by swimmers Fleming,
Blow, Campbell, and a host of top-liners have joined the colours and big match
competition is in the doldrums. Officials also have put their shoulders to the
wheel, and many new faces wil be seen at Q.A.S.A. headquarters. Departure of Sub
Lieutenant Ron McKauge (hon sec) leaves the biggest gap, but Executive vacancies
also prevail through the absence of A.I.F. men, Sergeant Rex Horsley, and Private
Dave Rankins.
Courier Mail Saturday 12 October 1940
SWIM TITLE DATES
The Queensland Ladies Amateur Swimming Association will hold a State & Country
Championship this season, the dates selected being January 13, 15, and 17.
Women's swimming officers elected last night were - Chairwoman, Mrs N.Wright;
Secretary, Mrs K.D.Mackay; Treasurer, Miss F.Granville; Working Committee,
Mesdames Makay, Wright, S.H.Newman; Costume Stewards, Mesdames R.Tubman, E.Inwood,
M.Young; Delegates to Q.A.S.A, Secretary and Treasurer; Executive, Mesdames
Newman, E.Bryson, Miss L.Montgomery, M.McLean, R.Tubman.
-----------------------C.M. Friday 18 October 1940
CITY PASTIME OFFICIALS
Elected at the Annual Meeting of the City Pastime Amateur Swimming Club last
night were - President, Mr P.K.Copley; Patron, Rev W.B.Miles;
Hon Secretary & Treasurer, Mr J.Montgomery; Management Committee, Messrs H.Malyon,
P.Potts, E.Bonis, E.Jack, N.Scott, W.Lester, A.Wood; Delegates to Q.A.S.A, Messrs
P.Potts, N.Scott; Starter, Mr J.Robinson; Check Starter, Mr O.Bonis; Handicapper A Senior, Mr A.Wood, B Senior, Mr E.Bonis, Junior, Mr H.Malyon, Schoolboys, Mr
W.Lester, Beginners, Mr N.Scott, Distance, Mr A.Wood; Judges, Messrs H.Budd,
J.Kojak; Result Steward, Mr A.McMinn; Auditors, Messrs A.McMinn, A.Wood; Referee,
Mr W.Lacey.
Women's Section - Patroness, Mrs J.Montgomery; President, Mrs E.K.Copley;
Secretary, Miss A.Milne; Delegate to Q.L.A.S.A, Miss L.Montgomery; Management
Committee, Mrs Montgomery, Mrs Malyon, Mrs Wood; Handicappers - A Grade, Mrs
W.Lester, B.Grade, Mrs Wood, Schoolgirls, Miss W.Milne, Tiny Tots, Miss A.Clark.
----------------------(No mention seen of Q.A.S.A. A.G.M for 1940)
-------------------C.M. Monday 4 November 1940
STATE SWIMMING TITLES
MOVE BY DELEGATES FOR CARNIVAL
The delegates to the Queensland Amateur Swimming Association may decide at
tonight’s meeting to rescind the Executive’s decision of last season to abandon
the State and Country Championships.
The President (Mr D.S.Carter) said yesterday that he expected a move to be made
by delegates, but the question of the cost of conducting a three night carnival
under war conditions would have to be considered. The carnival would become the
financial responsibility of the Association for some one hundred and forty pounds.
Mr Alan Hemming, the retiring Secretary, has notified the President that he
does not desire re-election. Mr Hemming recently suffered a family bereavement.
Iis the desire of the delegates, however, to retain the services of Mr Hemming,
and there will be a ove made tonight to induce him to reconsider his decision.
Only one nomination has been received for Treasurer, Mr Vic Hartley.
-----------------
C.M. Wednesday 6 November 1940
DRAW FOR MERCANTILE SWIM RELAY
66 teams, representing mercantile traders in Brisbane, will compete in the
teams relay handicap for the Elphingston Shield at the mercantile carnival at the
Valley Amateur Swimming Club’s meet at the Valley Baths tonight. The race is over
200 metres, and the team winning the final will retain the Shield for the next
twelve months. The present holder is E.G.Eager & Sons team.
Teams which win semi-finals will also receive a Cup. First second and third in
the heats will start in the semi-finals.
During the evening there will be a diving display b G.D.Johnston, L.Clancy,
A.Campbell, W.Kane, A.Harrower, and W.Morrall.
The Shield and other trophies will be presented by Alderman G.Downey.
NEW ZEALAND INVITES WOMEN SWIMMERS
Misses Gwen Millard (NSW), Dorothy Green (formerly of West Australian , now of
South Australia), and Iris Tubman (Qld), have been mentioned as representatives if
the Australian Swimming Union accepts an invitation to send a team of women to New
Zealand to swim in aid of Patriotic Funds.
Miss Green holds the 220, 440, and 880 yards Australian titles, Miss Millard is
back-stroke champion, and Miss Tubman is a triple title holder in Queensland and
was runner-up to Miss Green in the 220 and 440 Australian championships.
If the tour is made, it will be early in 1941.
-------------------C.M. Thursday 5 December 1940
McDONNELL & EAST WIN SWIM RELAY
McDonnell & East’s No 1 team won the Elphingston Shield at the mercantile
swimming carnival last night. The same Company’s No 2 team was second and
Provincial Traders third.
J.W.Murray No 4 and Elphingston No 1 finished first and second in the final but
were disqualified for breaking their times by more than ten seconds.
--------------------C.M. Tuesday 10 December 1940
MOVES TO HOLD STATE SWIM TITLES
Following the protest made by Rockhampton and Tewantin against the decision of
the Council of the Queensland Amateur Swimming Association to abandon the 1940-41
State and Country Championships, Mr E.J.Goodwin gave notice of motion at last
night’s Council meeting “that the record of the Council’s decision be erased from
the minutes of the Association.”
Before the acting Chairman, Mr E.F.O’Brien, accepted Mr Goodwin’s motion a
heated discussion took place between the Chairman and Mr D.G.Johnston,
representative of Bowen. This resulted in Mr Johnston leaving the meeting which
was then terminated for want of a quorum.
The next Council meeting will be held on January 6.
FEES REDUCED
Affiliation fees were reduced from two guineas to one guinea for metropolitan
Clubs and from one guinea to ten shillings and sixpence for country Clubs.
Permission was given to the Association’s troupe of divers to appear at the
military carnival to be held on Friday night.
Southport was given permission to conduct a carnival at Christmas.
Certificates, in place of plaques, will be awarded to swimmers finishing first,
second, and third in men’s championships on 1 February 1941.
CARNIVAL OFFICIALS
Carnival officials for this season are – Referees, D.S.Carter, N.Burn;
Judges, W.A.Burnup, E.F.O’Brien, A.Hemming, E.Battersby, R.Kimlin, G.J.Nankaville;
Timekeepers, F.W.Springfield,
E.J.Goodwin, N.Burn,
H.Pols;
Call Stewards,
W.Morrall, G.Vines;Clerk of Course, K.Kennan; Diving Judges, D.S.Carter,
F.W.Sprngfield, E.J.Goodwin, W.Morrall; Recorders, N.Burn, J.V.Donovan.
-----------------C.M. Saturday 14 December 1940
TITLE FOR IMRIE
Toowoomba, Friday
Establishing an early lead, A.Imrie won the 440 yards Championship of Toowoomba
at the City Baths last night from D.Moreton and K.Childs in 5 min 5 2/5 secs.
In the holiday relays Valley beat Southern Cross Inspectors with Electric Light
A third
R.Grier, the former Australian 220 yards and 100 yards champion swam for
Electric Light.
-----------------C.M. Friday 20 December 1940
POOR BATHS REPORT BY DOCTORS
CARETAKER IS LIKELY SOON
A Caretaker is likely to be appointed by the City Council Co-ordination
Committee for the Mowbray Park Baths. The Lord Mayor (Ald J.B.Chandler) said
yesterday that the reports of vandalism and pollution of the baths by larrikins
would be considered at the Committee today.
Sir Raphael Cilento and Dr Weaver have been asked to submit a report.
-----------------C.M. Wednesday 1 January 1941
SWIM TITLE ENTRIES
CAIRNS STAR TO COMPETE
Flora May, the Cairns junior, will make her debut in Brisbane at the State and
Country Swimming Championships which are being held on January 12, 15, and 17.
Last season in Club championships she defeated the Cairns champion ad former
Queens-land junior champion, Joan Speed, in Open events. Miss May will compete in
the 200 metres Open Freestyle on January 12, and the Junior 100 metres Freestyle,
200 and 50 metres Open
And 100 metres Country championship on January 15, and 400 metres Open Freestyle
and 50 metres Junior Freestyle on January 17.
Entries for women’s events are a record, and those for the Junior men’s events
are about the same as last year.
D.Smith, a schoolboy member of the Rockhampton Railways Club, may prove the
outstanding boy in the Under 14 group. His best time for 50 metres is 37 seconds.
-----------------
C.M. Tuesday 7 January 1941
SWIM OFFICIAL TO EXPLAIN
The Queensland Amateur Swimming Association decided last night to call on the
Bowen representative, Mr G.D.Johnston, to explain his defiance of the ruling of
the acting Chairman, Mr E.F.O’Brien, at the previous Council meeting. The motion
concerning Mr Johnston was defeated.
The notice of motion of Mr E.J.Goodwin questioning the right of the Executive
to abandon this season’s State and Country Senior Men’s Championships was deferred
for consideration at the next Council meeting.
The Australian Junior Women’s 110 yards Freestyle Championship has been
allocated to the QLASA for decision at a carnival at the Valley Baths on February
5.
The State swimming selectors are to be consulted regarding the possibility of
Queensland nominating a representative to swim in the Junior Men’s 110 yards
Freestyle title which will be raced in Sydney early next month.
The Treasurer, Mr V.Hartley, was made a Life Member of the Association.
-----------------C.M. Friday 10 January 1941
IRIS TUBMAN TO DEFEND FIVE TITLES
Iris Tubman will defend her Queensland titles for the 100, 200, 400 metres
freestyle, and the 150 metres medley at the State and Country Swimming
Championships at the Valley Baths next Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Her form is
as good as last year. Yesterday she swam 50 metres in 31 seconds, and at the
Valley Club swim on Wednesday she gave away 20 seconds over 100 metres and came in
second.
Ruth Gill (Rockhampton) the country 50 metres champion has bettered her record
time of 33 2/5 seconds by 3 1/5 seconds. She will also enter for the 200 and 100
metres freestyle events.
C.M. Thursday 16 January 1941
(Pictures – “Made new records at the title swims at last night’s swimming
championships at the Valley Baths.” Miss F.May of Cairns winner of the State
Junior Freestyle Championship and Miss Iris Tubman (Valley) winner of the State
100 metres Women’s Freestyle Championship and winner of the Women’s 150 metres
Medley Championship. A.Imrie winner of the 400 metres Scratch Race and R.Carlin
(Southport) who swam second. A.Davison winner of the 50 metres Junior Backstroke
Championship.)
SIX RECORDS GO IN STATE SWIMS
TUBMAN STARS AGAIN
Six records were broken at the mixed State and Country Swimming Championships
carnival at the Valley Baths last night.
Miss Iris Tubman (Valley) was again the star and retained two of her titles,
the 100metres freestyle and the 150 metres medley championships. She clipped 2/5
seconds off her previous record time in the medley race.
14 year old Flora May of Cairns won the 100 yards Junior Freestyle Championship
but was defeated in the 50 metres Country Freestyle Championship by Ruth Gillof
Rockhampton who won by a touch in a thrilling finish.
Winning his second championship since 1935, Howard Cook of Cairns broke a record
when he won the 50 metres Country Freesty1e Championship. His time was two seconds
better than the previous record held by R.Ross of Tewantin.
Miss D.Ross (Tewantin) must be the unluckiest competitor in the carnival.She
had the 40 metres 12 & Under 13 years Championship won, but slowed up three yards
from the finishing line when she thought she had passed the mark. Miss M.Davison
(Valley) holder, finishing well, won in record time.
Records broken – 30 metres Under 12 Freestyle Championship, D.Peterson
(Maryborough) in 21 seconds – previous record 21 3/5: Miss Davison (Valley)
40metres junior Freestyle in 23 3/5 secs – previous 28 4/5 secs: H.R.Cook (Cairns)
50 metres Country Championship in 29 secs – previous 31 secs: A.Davison (Valley)
50 metres Junior Backstroke Championship in 36secs – previous 39 4/5: 250 metres
Junior Squadron Championship Valley in 2.40 4/5 previous 2.48 3/5: I.Tubman
(Valley) 150 metres Women’s Medley Championship in 2.17 4/5 – previous 2.18 1/5.
-------------------C.M. Friday 17 January 1941
JUNIORS TO CLASH IN TITLE SWIMS
The clash between Howard Cook (Cairns) and Neville Brough (City Pastime) in the
200 metres Junior Championship of Queensland will be a highlight of the State and
Country Swimming Championships at the Valley Baths tonight.
Brough defeated the Cairns champion in the 100 metres Junior Title on Monday
night. On Wednesday night Cook took the 50 metres Junior Championship, covering
the distance in 29 seconds, 2 seconds faster than the previous record.
(Then a list of Cook’s past performances was given)
C.M. Saturday 18 January 1941
BROTHERS AND SISTERS SHARE IN SWIMMING TITLES
Brothers and sisters, all juniors, won titles on the final night of the State
and Country Swimming Championships carnival at the Valley Baths last night. They
were Margaret and Alan Davison, and Nancy and Pat Lyons, all from the Valley Club.
Surprises were the defeat of Flora May (Cairns) in the 50 metres Junior
Freestyle Championship by Joan Carruthers of Rockhampton, and the defeat of
H.R.Cook (Cairns) by Alan Davison (Valley) in the 200 metres Junior Freestyle
Championship.
Three records were broken during the night. The 10 year old Nancy Lyons
received a great ovation when she defeated Joan Lloyd (Toowoomba), holder, in the
200 metres Breaststroke Championship of Queensland. Miss Lloyd was at least ten
yards ahead of Nancy at the 100 mark, but Miss Lloyd tired over the last 30 yards
and was defeated by two yards.
Howard Cook was favourite for the 200 metres Junior Freestyle. Neville Brough
(City Pastime) led early from Cook, but over the concluding stages Alan Davison
made up a lot of ground to win by two yards from Cook and G.Thomas (Valley who
dead-heated for second. Brough was fourth.
FLORA MAY DEFEATED
Joan Carruthers (Rockhampton) finished too strongly for Flora May to win the 50
metres Junior Women’s 50 metres Freestyle Title. Flora started again in the 400
metres Freestyle Championship and was beaten into third place by Iris Tubman
(holder0 and Marie Collings (City Pastime). A feature of the race was the
finishing burst of Miss Collings who made up five yards on Miss Tubman in the last
fifty metres.
Records were broken by Joan Hamilton (Longreach) in 50 metres Women’s Freestyle
Championship 13 and Under 14 years in 35 seconds – previous 38 4/5. Ron Lamberton
(Rockhampton Railways) 200 metres Under 18 Freestyle in 2.27 4/5 – previous 2.31
3/5. Margaret Davison (Valley) 50 metres Junior Women’s Backstroke in 41 1/5 –
previously 42 4/5.
Trophies were presented by the President of the Queensland Ladies Amateur
Swimming Association, Mrs N.Wright.
C.M. Saturday 25 January 1941
WOMEN’S TITLES SWIMMING PROGRAMME
Thirteen events were drawn up last night for the carnival associated with the
Australian Women’s 100 metres Swimming Championship at the Valley Baths on
February 5.
The title race will be contested by Queensland, New South Wales, and Victoria.
Twelve handicap events have been included in the programme as well as a diving
display.
The 1940 State 100 metres Junior champion, Joan Carruthers of Rockhampton asked
permission to swim in the Australian Championship at her own expense. The
Executive of the Women’s Association granted permission but no decision was made
about helping to meet her expenses.
Business houses will be catered for at the carnival with 200 metres teams race.
The teams may consist of two men and two women.
Trophies will be presented for the first and second in all but the teams race
and the brace relay.
----------------C.M. Thursday 30 January 1941
RECORD BREAKING GIRL SWIMMER ARRIVES
A 14 year old girl swimmer who has won five Victorian Open Championships, one
Australian, and three Victorian Junior Titles, arrived in Brisbane by plane last
night.
She is Judy Joy Davies, breaker of more than ten records who will defend her
National Junior 100 metres Freestyle title at the Valley Baths next Wednesday
night.
Judy’s main rivals in the 100 metres championship will be Flora May, Joan
Carruthers, and Margaret Davison.
---------------------C.M. Friday 31 January 1941
IMRIE WINS TWO MORE BRISBANE TITLES
Swimming in great style, Alan Imrie (Valley) took the 200 metres Metropolitan
Freestyle and the Metropolitan Medley Championships at the Davies Park Baths last
night.
In the freestyle event Imrie swam the first 100 yards in 61 2/5 seconds. Imrie
holds the 440 and 880 yards metropolitan titles, the 440 and 880 yards State
championships, and Point Danger and State surf belt championships.
Neville Brough (City Pastime) Queensland Junior champion who will compete in
the Australian 100 yards Junior Championship in Sydney next week won the 200 yards
Jnior metropolitan freestyle championship.
The first of the series of Speedo relays was won by last year’s holders, City
Pastime.
------------------C.M. Tuesday 4 February 1941
JUDY DAVIES BETTERS POOL RECORD IN TRAINING
Judy Joy Davies, Australian Women’s 100 yards Junior freestyle champion was
timed by an onlooker to cover the distance in 1 min 12 secs at a training swim at
the Valley Baths at the weekend. The present junior record for the pool is 1min 13
3/5 secs established by Iris Tubman when she was fifteen.
Margaret Davison turned thirteen, six days ago, and will be the youngest
competitor. She is coached by Margaret (? Mabel Ed) Springfield who was twice
selected for the Olympic Games. Margaret, when she was twelve, won the Under 16
Backstroke Championship of Queens-land and four 13 years Sate titles. She has been
holidaying at Tugun but travelled to Brisbane on Friday for final training.
COACHED ONLY ONCE
Only an hour after she arrived in Brisbane yesterday, Winnie Rostron, the sole
representative from New South Wales, was training at the Valley pool.
STATE TITLES SWIM TO BE HELD
The decision to abandon the State and Country Swimming Championships for the
duration of the war made by last year’s Executive of the Queensland Amateur
Swimming Association was ordered to be erased from the records by a motion areed
to by the Council last night after lengthy and often heated discussion.
Mr E.J.Goodwin asked the Chairman (Mr D.S.Carter) to allocate several of the
championships to the Ipswich body. This was prepared to finance such events this
season. Mr Carter replied that the question of holding the championships would be
reviewed at the next Council meeting on March 3.
Mr J.D.Johnston’s explanation regarding his leaving the previous meeting
without consent of the Chairman, was accepted.
Permission was granted to State champions Alan Imrie and Kevin Horn to swim at
a carnival at Maryborough on February 21.
Nancy Lyons, the Queensland 50 metres Junior breaststroke champion, was granted
permission to make an attempt on her Queensland record of 45 1/5 seconds at a
carnival to be held in the Valley Baths tomorrow night. The attempt will be made
in the 50 metres junior handicap. Official timekeepers will check Lyons time.
The New South Wales Association has been notified that Neville Brough has been
selected as Queensland’s junior representative. The date of the national event has
yet to be arranged.
SHIELD SWIM FOR SANDGATE
The next series of Speedo Shield senior and junior inter-club relay events will
be decided at the Sandgate Baths on February 11. Three metropolitan championships
will also be contested at the carnival.
(Picture – Joan Carruthers (Rockhampton) and Winnie Rostron (NSW))
------------------C.M. Wednesday 5 February 1941
(Picture – Contestants in the 100 metres Junior Freestyle Championship tonight
– Judy Joy Davies, Flora May, Winnie Rostron, Margaret Davison, Joan Carruthers.)
C.M. Wednesday 5 February 1941
TWO SHOULD SET A POOL RECORD IN TITLE SWIM
14 year old Judy Joy Davies of Melbourne, the Australian 100 metres junior title
holder will defend the title at the Valley Baths tonight at 8.30 o’clock. Judy is
expected to break at least the junior record for the pool of 1.13 3/5 held by Iris
Tubman. The national record of 1.10 3/5 is held by Pat Norton, and was made six
years ago.
MERCANTILE RELAY
City pastime Club will conduct a 200 yards mercantile teams relay at Davies
Park Baths on February 13 to cater for the rivalry between Brisbane’s business
houses. The winning team will be awarded the Tristram’s Trophy to be held for
twelve months. The competition will be open to amateurs only.
--------------------C.M. Thursday 6 February 1941
JUDY JOY DAVIES SETS RECORD IN TITLE SWIM
NANCY LYONS BEATS HER OWN FIGURES
Leading from 10 metres to the finish, Judy Joy Davies of Victoria easily
retained her 100 metres National Junior Women’s Freestyle Title at the Valley
Baths last night. She won by 5 4/5 seconds to break the two year race record of
1.15 3/5 by 1 second. Her time ws 1 2/5 outside Iris Tubman’s Queensland junior
record.
Finishing times were – Judy Joy Davies (Vic) 1.14 3/5; Joan Carruthers (Qld)
1.20 2/5; Winnie Rostron (NSW) 1.20 3/5; Flora May (Qld) 1.21’ Margaret Davison
(Qld) 1.24 3/5.
“She is the best prosect for her age,” said Tom Boast, Olympic representative.
“She gets amazing power from her arms and legs.”
“I should have kept my sprint till the last,” said Miss Davies after the race.
“I was all out. I will defend my Victorian titles on March 1, and then I will have
to go back to school. That is no good. I would rather swim than be cooped up in a
classroom,” she added.
IRIS TUBMAN BEATEN
In a neck and neck tussle over the whole of the 100 metres, Miss Davies
defeated Miss Tubman by 1/5 second in an invitation handicap. Miss May, who had
six seconds start on Miss Davies and Miss Tubman, won by 4/5 second. Miss Davies
unofficial time was 1.12 4/5, 4/5 second better than her national race record
time.
Miss Tubman defeated Miss Davies by 3/5 second in a 50 metres backstroke
handicap. Both started from 11 seconds. The times were - Miss Tubman 38 2/5 and
Miss Davies 39.
BROKE OWN RECORD
Ten years old Nancy Lyons broke her own 50 metres Queensland Junior women’s
breaststroke record by 1 1/5 seconds, swimming the distance in 44 seconds. Miss
Lyons won the title first when she was nine years old, last year, in 48 1/5, and
this year’s title last month when she cut three seconds off this time.
-------------------C.M. Wednesday 12 February 1941
(Pictures of swimming title winners at the metropolitan swimming championships
at Sandgate – Neville Brough, 100 yards Under 18 championship; Judy Joy Davies,
and Marie Collings whom she beat in the 200 yards championship; George Jones,
winner of 100 yards junior breaststroke championship.)
IMRIE RETAINS TITLE
JUDY DAVIES WINS TWO
Alan Imrie (Valley) retained his 400 yards metropolitan championship title at
the
Sandgate Baths last night when he covered the distance in 4 mins 55 4/5 secs.
Judy Joy Davies finished first in two metropolitan championship events.
---------------------
C.M. Friday 14 February 1941
PASTIME’S TEAM WIN SWIM
City Pastime No 1 team (L.Montgomery, G.Drouin, E.Mulry, F de Lange) finished
fifth and last in the 200 yards freestyle relay handicap run by the City Pastime
Club at the Davies Park Baths last night and won the Tristram’s Cup.
The first four teams, Qld Can Coy’s No 1 and No 6, Gettings Transport, and
Provisional Traders were disqualified for breaking their stated time. Fifteen out
of the 47 teams were disqualified for similar breaches in the nine heats.
--------------------C.M. Wednesday 12 March 1941
SPEEDO SHIELD TO CITY PASTIME
City Pastime A won the final of the senior section of the Speedo Shield
competition with 41 points at a carnival organised by the Moreton Bay Swimming
Club at the Manly Baths last night.
Valley and Sandgate tied in the junior section with 11 points each and will
swim off at the Davies Park Baths on March 20 when the final of the ladies relay
will also be staged.
Commercial and Valley tied in the junior Speedo relay but were disqualified for
breaking their times, and first place went to Moreton Bay.
Valley won the West Moreton Pennant.
-------------------C.M. Friday 21 March 1941
M.COLLINGS SWIM TO PLAN
Miss Collings (City Pastime) won the 100 yards metropolitan championship at the
Davies Park Baths last night. The 50 yards women’s breaststroke championship was
won by C.Eldred (Valley).
The final of the junior Speedo relay was won by Sandgate, Valley filling second
place.
C.M. Wednesday 15 October 1941
SWIMMING CHALLENGE WON BY McMILLAN
Because of the illness of the R.A.A.F. swimming champion A.C.Stevens, Sgt
A.White represented the Sandgate Station in a challenge match against McMillan the
Sandgate champion at the Sandgate Baths last night.
White who is a former belt champion of the Coogee Surf Club was narrowly
defeated by McMillan doing the 100 yards in 61.6 seconds.
-------------------C.M. Tuesday 28 October 1941
MOVE TO HOLD STATE SWIMMING TITLES
The holding of the State Swimming Titles this season was advocated by a number
of delegates at the Annual Meeting of the Queensland Amateur Swimming Association
last night.
Mr N.Burn, a Life Member, said the titles should be held to encourage younger
swimmers.
The question of holding the championships which were temporarily
abandoned last season will be discussed at the first Council meeting next Monday
night.
At the request of the Toowoomba Centre Mr J.Montgomery gave notice to amend the
Constitution to permit affiliated Clubs to consist of ten members instead of
twenty as formerly, for the duration of the war.
Office Bearers elected were - Patron, Mr L.Nissen; President, Mr D.S.Carter;
Vice Presidents, The Lord Mayor (Ald J.B.Chandler), Messrs H.Malyon, R.B.Lyons,
E.S.Collin, A.Haslet, and E.O’Brien; Hon Handicapper, Mr J.Montgomery.
---------------------C.M. Thursday 4 December 1941
MERCANTILE SWIM
TEAMS NUMBER SIXTY EIGHT
Sixty eight teams last night entered for the mercantile carnival to be conducted
by the Valley Amateur Swimming Club at the Valley Baths on December 10. Further
entries are expected by post today.
STATE TITLES SWIM THIS SEASON
By eleven votes to eight, the Council of the Queensland Amateur Swimming
Association last night decided to hold State & Country Swimming Championships this
season. Because of the war, these were cancelled last year.
The Valley Club was granted permission to hold a Mercantile Carnival on
December 10.
The City Council is to be asked to alter the starting piers recently erected at
the Valley Baths so as to conform with the Olympic standard. They are nine inches
too high, being one metre instead of two feet six inches as required by Olympic
conditions.
The following office bearers were elected - Chairman of Executive, Mr
D.S.Carter; Secretary, Mr V.Donovan; Treasurer, Mr V.Hartley; Registrar, Mr
J.Montgomery; Starter, Mr R.Hodge; Executive Committee, Messrs E.O'Brien,
F.C.Ivett, K.Horn, H.Polls, L.Smelt, Mrs Mackay.
------------------
C.M. Thursday 11 December 1941
SWIM RELAYS
Remarkable finishing put up by Neville Brough, State junior swimming champion,
snatched victory for the Queensland Can Co in the 200 metres mercantile relay for
the Elphingstone Shield at the Valley Baths last night.
Before taking off, Brough’s chances of catching the leaders looked hopeless,
but in a final burst of sustained speed he won by a yard.
Final result – Qld Can Co (N.Lipps, T.Hurly, H.Sandersson, N.Brough) 1,
Northern Command No 3 2, Nestles No 1 3.
STATE IS CALLING OFF SWIM TITLES
“There could be cancellation of the State and Country Swimming Championships
which were listed for Brisbane on January 19, 21, and 22,” said Mr J.V.Donovan,
Secretary of the Queensland Amateur Swimming Association yesterday. “The matter of
what action should be taken was one for the Council,” Mr Donovan said.
Probably a special Council meeting would be called before the holding of the
regular meeting on January 5.
C.M. Monday 12 January 1942
HUNDREDS IN SANDGATE POOL DESPITE SHARK
Hundreds of people bathed in the Sandgate "shark proof" swimming enclosure
yesterday although a six foot man-eating grey nurse shark was caught in the pool
on Saturday. Residents warned bathers that other large sharks were probably inside
the net.
In the accompanying picture, Mr Harry Jacques, who caught the shark on
Saturday, is shown holding the jaws.
Mr Jacques suggested that large sharks would have been able to get through the
gap in the net, but they would not be able to get out again easily. They may be
only the shovel-nose variety, but they might just as easily be man-eaters.
Residents urge, as proof of the danger, the fact that the shark which Mr
Jacques caught was not the same as that which swallowed the hook, line, and sinker
of another fisherman in the pool an hour before. When Mr Jacques catch was opened,
no fishing line or tackle was found.
Several amateur anglers fished in the pool for sharks yesterday, but without
success. Mr Jaques, who as more than 50 shark catches to his credit, will fish
there again tonight.
------------------------C.M. Tuesday 20 January 1942
TEST SWIM FOR JUNIORS
The Queensland Amateur Swimming Association decided last night to hold a test
race at the Valley Baths at 10am on February 1 to ascertain if the State possesses
a Junior champion of sufficient standard fit to represent it at the National
Junior Free Style Championship on February 14. Country affiliated Clubs and
Centres are being asked to hold similar tests and to furnish the results to the
Association before January 31.The tests will be over 110 yards, and must be timed
by three timekeepers.
Selectors to watch the test are -J.Montgomery, Len Stanton, and T.Boast. Mr
N.Burn will act as deputy if any selector be not available.
It was decided to refund registration fees for the 1941-42 season.
The Executive was asked to prepare a schedule of events for a Brisbane
Championship series to be decided on March 28.
Mr V.Donovan, the Secretary, strongly opposed the holding of any title events
because the Association had already cancelled the State & Country Championships,
and announced he would tender his resignation at the next Council meeting.
Mr Hodge was made a Life Member.
--------------------C.M. Tuesday 3 February 1942
SWIM OFF - TEST SWIM
Picture of Margaret Tait (Valley) who won the 100 metres test race held in the
Valley Baths for Junior Women for representation in the Australian Junior
Championships.
SWIMMER NOT GOING SOUTH
Queensland will not send a male representative to the Australian Junior
Championships to be held in Melbourne on February 14. This decision was made by
delegates of the Queensland Amateur Swimming Association last night. It was also
decided not to hold a Brisbane Championship Carnival planned for March.
The Hon Secretary, Mr J.Donovan, tendered his resignation, but agreed to carry
on until the Association could find a successor.
(Note - With the Japanese forces progressing down the Malay Peninsula at that time
evacuation was planned for the coastal section of Queensland and northern New
South Wales)
----------------------C.M. Monday 16 February 1942
SWIMMING RESULTS
Sydney
Australian 110 yards Boys Junior Championships - J.Campbell (NSW) 1, R.Trend
(WA) 2 J.Thompson (Vic) 3.Won by 3 yards. Time 1.5 3/5.
Australian 110 yards Girls Junior Championship - Judy Joy Davies (Vic) 1, Kath
True (Vic) 2, Thelma Chapman (NSW) 3. Won by a touch. Time 1.10 1/5.
C.M. Thursday 19 February 1942
SWIMMING RESULTS
VALLEY LADIES
A Senior 150m - G.Bottger 1, C.Springfield 2
B Senior 50m Bk/s - J.Shanahan
A Junior 50m Bk/s - V.Sneyd 1, N.Lyons 2
B Junior 40 yards - S.Springfield 1, J.Shanahan 2
Novice A 20 yards - H.Newton 1, E.Dickey 2
Novice B 20 yards - E.Brennan 1, A.McMurray 2
Senior Fancy Dive - A.Stebin 1, C.Springfield 2
Junior Fancy Dive - V.Sneyd 1, J.Shanahan 2
Open Handicap 150m Br/s - C.Springfield 1, C.Eldred 2
Mackay Cup 150m Medley - N.Lyons 1, E.Mears 2
FEDERAL LADIES
50M - B.Sayers 1, M.Turner 2
Medley 100m - D.Hansen 1, D.McDonald 2
Senior Life Saving - D.Hansen & B.Sayers 1, E.McIntosh 3
Diving - B.Sayers 1. E.Mcintosh 2
20 yards Junior B - M.Bergstrom 1, S.Burt 2
20
40
20
20
yards
yards
yards
yards
Junior
Junior
Junior
Junior
A - A.A.Burt 1, J.Burt 2
J.Wright
B Br/s - S.Burt 1, A.Burt 2
A Br/s - J.Wright.
-----------------------
Reports of a couple more Club swims were seen, but in this time of war the size
of the Courier Mail was considerably reduced and no doubt fewer reports were
accepted, and organised swimming activity was at a minimum
C.M. Monday 19 October 1942
SWIMMING SEASON
The swimming season will open on Wednesday. This was decided by the Valley
Amateur Swimming Club at their meeting on Saturday. The Club will conduct the 8th
Annual Mercantile Relay at a carnival early in December. Also on the carnival
programme will be a relay race for members of the allied forces.
----------------------C.M. Tuesday 4 November 1942
NEW BRISBANE POOLS URGED
Pleas for additional swimming pools for Brisbane were made by Aldermen at
yesterday's City Council Meeting.
At the time the Council was discussing a Report of the Health Committee which
recommended that an additional ₤800 (making ₤1800 in all) be spent on two brick
dressing rooms and lavatories for males and females at the Ithaca Baths.
Alderman Holmes (Labor) urged that improvements to existing baths had been
completed, and consideration should be given to provision of new baths on the
south side.
The Lord Mayor (Ald J.B.Chandler) said that twice money had been placed on the
loan estimates for more baths in South Brisbane, but each time it had been
disallowed by the Co-ordinator-General.
The Report was adopted.
--------------------C.M. Friday 4 December 1942
45 TEAMS FOR SWIM SHIELD
Nearly 200 swimmers will contest the Elphingstone Shield at the Mercantile
Carnival at the Valley Baths tomorrow afternoon, beginning at 2 o'clock. 45 teams
have entered, while members of the various fighting services will compete for
special trophies. Among the star swimmers are Iris Tubman, Nancy Lyons, Alan
Davison, Neville Brough, Nancy Beer, George Darcy, Gay Spiro, Peter Lyons, June
Shanahan, W.Heron, Ivor Wright, Craig Springfield, Ivan Springfield, and George
Jones.
Billy Morrall and his troupe will give an exhibition of high and fancy diving,
and the metropolitan and country jockeys will stage a championship over 50 metres.
SHARK NET TO BE REPAIRED
The "shark proof" swimming enclosure at Sandgate which has not been shark proof
for many months will soon be safe to bathe in again.
Alderman J.S.Kerr, who is acting as Chairman of the City Council Works
Committee during the illness of Alderman Downey, said that material to mend the
protective steel net had been obtained and was now being woven. Repair work would
start early next week and would be completed in time for the crowds at Christmas
to enjoy a swim in safety.
-----------------------
C.M. Friday 22 January 1943
LARGE ENTRIES FOR SWIM CARNIVAL
Large entries have been received for the Services Swim Carnival at the
Municipal Baths, Valley, on Sunday afternoon. Keen competition is likely.
Thirty one U.S.A and Australian servicemen have entered for the first event, a
50 metres scratch race, at 2 o'clock. The 50 metres scratch race for women has
attracted 44 entries, all from the W.A.A.F and the A.W.A.S.
7 teams will contest the men's 300 metres Flying Squadron race, and 5 teams the
women's Flying Squadron event. 21 have entered for the 100 metres men's scratch
race, and the 400 metres men's scratch race has three entries, Sergeant McLintock,
and Privates Fisher and Pearce.
A U.S.A. army band will supply music from 1.30 to 2.30. Admission is free to
members of the services in uniform, and members of the merchant navy on
presentation of their ship's passes. Each may bring a friend, but if the friend is
a male civilian, he will be charged one shilling.
--------------------C.M. Monday 25 January 1943
SERGEANT IN FORM AT SERVICE SWIM
By L.H.Kerney
Sergeant L.A.Strang of Victoria, recorded an outstanding performance in the 50
metres men's scratch race, winning in 29 seconds from Sgt Pilot Penfold of Coogee
(Sydney) at the Services Swimming Carnival conducted by the Allied Forces Sunday
Entertainment Committee at the Booroodabin Baths yesterday.
Strang won the Victorian Open Junior Championship in 1939. On one occasion at
Albury (NSW) he dead-heated with Australian champion, Bill Fleming. He also
represented for Victorian High Schools for national football, and won an allschools high jump championship. Later in the programme Penfold made amends for his
defeat by winning the 100 metres.
ACW Caswell (WAAF) proved the outstanding women's services competitor. She won
the 50 metres in convincing style.
Rivalry in the Flying Squadron events created tremendous enthusiasm among the
spectators.
There was a diving display by the Q.A.S.A diving troupe headed by Sgt W.Morrall
and Pilot R.Campbell. The water clowns were Sgt Lew Pilacheweski (USA) and W.Cain
(Aust).
Q.A.S.A
The Q.A.S.A will hold its Annual Meeting at the Y.M.C.A on February 8 at 9pm.
----------------------C.M. Monday 22 February 1943
BLACK SWIM STAR
S.Black of the Ramsgate (Sydney Club, NSW record holder) registered an
outstanding performance in winning the final of the 50 metres men's scratch race
at the Services Swimming Carnival at the Booroodabin Baths yesterday. His time, 28
1/5 seconds, was fast for Queensland, but in 1940 he created a NSW record of 27
2/5 seconds which still stands to his credit.
Former Bondi Surf Club swimmer, Flight Sergeant Penfold (RAAF) won the 100
metres event by four yards from Staff Sergeant S.Cohen and LAC Walker.
Private First Class Jack Morris (USA) won the 50 metres scratch breast stroke
event.
Sergeant Bill Morrall, Bill Nolan and Bill Kane (merchant marine) gave a
display of diving. Kane is a water clown, and had the big crowd delighted with his
tricks.
The Premier (Mr F.A.Cooper), with the whole of the Allied Forces Sunday
Entertainment Committee, presented honour ribbons to the winners and runners-up.
The 23 year old Private First Class Jack Morris arrived at the Services
swimming carnival in time to make a post entry in the 50 metre breast stroke
event. "I swim the butterfly stroke, can I enter?" asked Morris.
On being informed by a QASA official that the stroke is barred in Australia,
Morris replied, "Well, I will swim your way."
He did, and won the event from two Australians.
Morris had not swum for three months. He had, however, a fair amount of
competition swimming at the Pittsburgh University before enlisting.
------------------------C.M. Wednesday 17 March 1943
SWIM CHAMPIONSHIPS
State Swimming Championships, women's and men's, will be decided at the Valley
Baths Thursday night March 25, Saturday March 27 at 2pm, and Monday March 29 at
7.30pm. Entries for all events close on Thursday March 18 with the Hon Secretary,
Mr E.Brockhurst, Box 1636D, GPO, Brisbane, or Mr J.Montgomery, Hon Registrar, 22
Glanville Street, West End. Entries from allied services will be accepted up to
5pm on Monday March 21.
----------------------C.M. Thursday 25 March 1943
600 ENTRIES FOR SWIM TITLES
By L.H.Kerney
More than 600 competitors, including many service men and women, will contest
the State Amateur Swimming Championships at the Valley Baths tonight, Saturday
next, and Monday night. R.A.A.F representatives Arthur Beard, Alan Penfold, and
recent winners at the Services Carnival, promise to provide high class swimming in
the freestyle events. U.S.A breast stroke champion, Jack Morris, will test breast
stroke rivals.
Among the youthful Brisbane competitors are Neville Brough (State Junior
Champion) who will contest the Open 100 metres, and Under 18, Alan Davison
(University and GPS champion), Nancy Lyons, the State's outstanding breaststroke
champion, will prove too strong for her rivals, but in the medley title she will
meet strong opposition from Iris Tubman, State title holder.
----------------------C.M. Friday 26 March 1943
RECORDS GO IN TITLE SWIM
Two State records were broken at the Swimming Championships at the Valley Baths
last night.
In the 50 metres Junior Women's Back Stroke Championship, M.Davison broke her
own record of 41 1/5 seconds by 2 3/5 seconds. She did the 50 metres in 38 3/5
seconds.
N.Lyons, in the 150 metres Women's Medley (Wartime) Championship, covered the
distance in 2.13 4/5, and broke the State record of 2.17 4/5
The 250 metres Men's Junior Squadron Championship was won by C.E.G.S. in 2.47
1/5, and the Women's Junior Squadron Championship by Valley No 2, in 2.42 1/5.
Results -
40 metres Freestyle Championship of Queensland Under 12 - J.R.Boast 1, R.Hogan 2,
R.Gale 3. Time 30 4/5
40 metres Women's Freestyle Under 12 - P.Kinghorn 1, M.Sharpe 2, S.Withy 3 Time
34 4/5.
100 metres Junior Women's Freestyle Championship - M.Tait 1, D.Stan- field 2,
M.Davison 3. Time 1.20 1/5
100 metres Men's Freestyle Championship Under 18 - N.Brough 1, J.Roe 2, S.Roden
3. Time 1.9
50 metres Women's Senior Handicap - Heat winners, G.Eldred, L.Montgom- ery; Final
B.Blackley.
100 metres Men's Backstroke (Wartime) Championship - A.Davison 1, P.Lyons 2,
A.Penfold 3. Time 1.19
50 metres Men's Junior Interclub Handicap - Heat winners, D.Smoothy, J.Sharpin,
W.Sharpin; Final, R.Croft.
50 metres Junior Women's Backstroke Championship - M.Davison 1, N.Lyons 2,
J.Miles 3. Time 38 3/5
100 metres Junior Breaststroke Championship - N.Parker 1, I.Wright 2, I.D.Brown
3. Time 1.32 1/5
50 metres Women's Junior Handicap - J.Shanahan
400 metres Men's Freestyle (Wartime) Championship - A.Beard 1, A.Davison 2,
N.Brough 3. Time 5.40
150 metres Women's Medley (Wartime) Championship - N.Lyons & I.Tubman tie 1,
M.Collings 3. Time 2.13 4/5.
-----------------C.M. Saturday 27 March 1943
DIVING CHAMPIONSHIPS
Diving Championships will be a feature of the
be continued this afternoon at the Valley Baths at
Of the 28 events, 16 will be of Championship
Team diving representative), Eric Holton (a NSW
champion of NSW) will be among the contestants.
State Swimming Championships to
2pm.
class. Arthur O'Connor (Empire
champion) and W.J.Paul (Junior
-----------------------C.M. Tuesday 30 March 1943
TWO STATE SWIM RECORDS BROKEN
Two State records were broken at the swimming carnival at the Valley Baths last
night.
Miss Nancy Lyons (V) broke the Queensland record for 200 yards Women's
Breaststroke Championship (Wartime) by 5 1/2 seconds, covering the distance in
3.18 1/2.
K.Neilson (Rockhampton) swam the 50 metres Junior Backstroke in 38 3/5 seconds,
and took 1 1/5 seconds off the record.
W.Nolan, G.Johnston, A.O'Connor, and W.Cane, gave a diving display.
Results 50 metres Women's Freestyle Championship of Queensland - J.Dowling (V) 1,
J.Kinghorn (NHB) 2, S.Springfield (V) 3. Time 36 3/5
200 metres Women's Freestyle Championship (Wartime) - I.Tubman 1, M.Collings 2,
M.Tait 3. Time 2.57
50 metres Women's Junior Handicap - K.Mezger (Rockh) 1, M.Davison (V) 2,
J.Shanahan (V) 3
50 metres Women's Senior Handicap - I.Thurlby (Com) 1, E.Eldred (V) 2, N.Langdon
(Com) 3
200 metres Women's Breaststroke Championship (Wartime) - N.Lyons (V) 1, G.Spiro
(V) 2, E.Mears (V) 3 Time 3.18 1/2
150 metres Women's Junior Championship (Wartime) - Valley No 1, 1, Valley No 2,
2, Valley No 3, 3. Time 1.41
200 metres Women's Junior Flying Squadron Championship - Valley No 1, 1, Valley
No 2, 2. Time 3.32
50 metres Men's Freestyle Under 14 Championship - Des Petersen (NBH) 1, R.Cook
(NBH) 2, J.Pretorius (S) 3
Time 34 4/5
100 metres Men's Junior Championship - I.Wright (V) 1, T.Holmes (Tmba) 2,
R.Harris (BGS) 3. Time 1.10 4/5
200 metres Men's Freestyle Championship (Wartime) - A.Beard (RAAF) 1, A.Davison
(R) 2, G.King (NBH) 3. Time 2.33
100 metres Men's Under 17 Freestyle Championship - J.Sears (NBH), G.L.Jones
(CEGS) 2, T.Smith (Rockh) 3 Time 1.10 4/5
150 metres Men's Medley Championship (Wartime) - A.Davison (R) 1, P.Lyons (V) 2,
W.Nolan (AMF) 3 Time 2.12
50 metres Junior Backstroke - R.Neilsen (Rockh) 1, L.Harris (Rockh) 2, D.Brown
(BGS) 3.Time 38 3/5
50 metres Junior Handicap - R.Henry (Rockh) 1, J.Pretorius (S) 2, R.Harris
(Rockh) 3.
100 metres B.B.Kieran Memorial Handicap - D.Ferricks (Rockh) 1, S.Lawn (Rockh) 2,
S.Keaton (CP) 3
250 metres Flying Squadron Championship (Wartime) - C.E.G.S. 1, City Pastime 2,
Valley A 3. Time 2.33 4/5
50 metres Scratch Race - N.King (RAAF) 1, A.Beard (RAAF) 2, Time 28 3/5
---------------C.M. Thursday 8 April 1943
STATE TITLE RESWIM
WON BY IRIS TUBMAN
A re-swim of the 200 metres Freestyle Championship (Wartime) at the Valley
Baths last night resulted in an easy win for Iris Tubman, her opponent,
M.Collings, being forced to retire 25 yards from the finishing post. Collings led
at the 100 metre mark. Tubman took charge at the 150 metres and then forged ahead.
The time, 2.55, was 2 seconds faster than that recorded when they dead-heated on
March 29.
C.M
Thursday 30 September 1943
WARTIME SWIM TITLES
Queensland War-time Swimming Championships which were revived last year may be
contested again this season. The decision probably will be made at the General
Meeting of the Q.A.S.A
to be held at the Wool Exchange, Creek Street, on Monday
night.
The Association has a Credit Balance of ₤54.
-------------------(No report of the AGM seen in the Courier Mail)
-------------------C.M. Tuesday 19 October 1943
STATE SWIMMING TITLES TO BE HELD
The State War-time Swimming Championships are to be held at the Valley Baths,
Brisbane, on February 17, 19, and 21, next year. This was decided at a meeting of
the Council of the Queensland Amateur Swimming Association last night.
Officers elected were - Chairman, Mr N.Burn; Hon Secretary, Mr J.S.Emerson; Hon
Assistant Secretary, Mr H.Fitzpatrick; Hon Treasurer, Mr R.Beer; Hon Registrar, Mr
J.Montgomery; Hon Starter, Mr R.Hodge; Hon Timekeeper, Mr F.W.Springfield; Hon Chief
Judge, Mr W.Burnup; Executive, Messrs R.B.Lyons, J.Stewart, L.Smelt, E.J.Nankavill,
W.Shanahan.
---------------------C.M. Monday 13 December 1943
BOAST R.A.A.F. SWIM STAR
Tom Boast, former State and Olympic representative, was the outstanding performer
at the Air Force swimming carnival at the Valley Baths last night.
Boast, who is now a Corporal in the R.A.A.F., won three events – 100 metres
freestyle, 50 metres freestyle, and 50 metres backstroke. He received the most
individual points for the R.A.A.F.
-----------------------C.M. Thursday 20 January 1944
NANCY LYONS NEW RECORD
Thirteen year old Nancy Lyons, Junior and Open champion, broke the Queensland 200
metres breaststroke swimming record by 2 7/10 seconds at the Valley Baths last
night.
She was never really tested by the opposition in the Valley Ladies Club
Championships, winning by half the length of the baths in 3 min 14 3/5 secs. Her
previous State record was 3 min 18 1/5 secs when she eclipsed Dorothy Thompson’s
record of 3 min 24 secs.
Lyons finished 22 2/5 seconds ahead of her nearest rival Edna Mears (3.37 1/5)
with Diana Stanfield (3.48 1/5) in third place.
------------------------
C.M. Friday 18 February 1944
BIG SWIM EVENT TO 14 YEAR OLD GIRL
Highlight of the Queensland Swimming Championship events in the Valley Baths last
night was the swim by 14 year old girl Denise Spencer in the 100 metres Junior
Freestyle title swim. Her time was 1 min 17 1/5 secs.
Corporal T.Boast (R.A.A.F) won the 10 metres Men’s Backstroke in 1 min 18 4/5,
the fastest time for some years.
R.Colbert (Toowoomba) who won the 50 metres 12 and Under 13 years Men’s Freestyle
Championship in 33 3/5 seconds, broke the record of 34 1/5 seconds twice last night.
He won his heat in 33 seconds.
Results of Championships recorded in Annual Report 1943-44
----------------------
C.M. Tuesday 22 February 1944
THREE SWIM TILES TO NANCY LYONS
Nancy Lyons, thirteen year old swimming champion, received three more titles at
the concluding session of the War-time State and Country Swimming Championships last
night.
She won the 200 metres Breaststroke (War-time) Championship, 50 metres 12 and
Under 13 years Women’s Freestyle, and the 50 metres Women’s Junior Breaststroke
Championship.
D.Smith broke the record for 16 and Under 17 years 100 metres Freestyle by 3
sewon by five yards in 1 min 7 4/5 secs.
Other new records established were 50 metres Women’s Country Freestyle Championship – Denise Spencer (Roma) 33 2/5
secs.
50 metres Men’s Junior Backstroke Championship – R.S.Harris (Rockhampton Grammar
School) 37 1/5secs.
(Full results were recorded in the Annual Report 1943-44)
C.M. Friday 29 September 1944
WOMEN FAVOUR SWIMMING TITLES
Early restoration of the Australian Championship Carnivals is advocated by the
ladies of the Queensland Ladies Amateur Swimming Association which will hold its
Annual Meeting at the Wool Exchange Building on September 29.
The Report stated that the Association's share of the profits of last season's
Wartime Championships was ₤80. Q.A.S.A (men) received ₤120 as their share. The
Ladies Association has a Credit Balance of ₤132, in addition to ₤100 in the War
Loan.
--------------------C.M. Thursday 5 October 1944
STATE RICH IN SWIM TALENT
The importance of the "Learn to Swim" campaign which was launched by 50
metropolitan schools last season is stressed in the Annual Report of the
Queensland Amateur Swimming Association. 17 pools were used, the attendance of
learners being 5079.
Queensland swimming was rich in youthful talent, as, it was stated, 12 records
being broken last season.
Wartime State and Country Championships were again a feature of the competitive
season.
The Annual Meeting of the Q.A.S.A will be held on October 9 at the Wool
Exchange at 7.30pm.
-----------------------C.M. Tuesday 10 October 1944
₤87 TAX ON SWIMMING FUNDS
Call of Entertainment Tax of ₤87 on last season's carnival receipts of
₤362
was criticised by the Chairman, Mr D.S.Carter, at last night's Annual Meeting of
the Queensland Amateur Swimming Association.
The national government spent a large sum in each State to further the National
Fitness campaign, yet an amateur body was penalised by heavy taxation carrying out
a project which was identical with the fitness campaign. No amateur sporting body
in the State did more for youth and fitness than the Q.A.S.A.
AMATEUR SWIMMING
Delegates of Metropolitan and Country Centres at last night's Annual Meeting of
the Queensland Amateur Swimming Association praised the organising work of Mr
J.S.Emerson which resulted in 666 competitors taking part in the Wartime State and
Country Championships.
The officials elected were - Patron, Sir Leslie Orme Wilson (Governor of
Queensland); Vice Patron, Mr J.B.Chandler (Lord Mayor of Brisbane);
President,
Mr
D.S.Carter;
Vice
Presidents,
Messrs
A.Woods,
E.A.Bale,
F.W.Springfield, H.Malyon, J.E.Ross; Handicapper, Mr J.Montgomery;
Trustees, Messrs D.S.Carter, E.A.Bale.
Mr Norman Burn, last year's Chairman of Council, announced his inability to
accept office again.
-------------------------
C.M. Wednesday 11 October 1944
SWIM DOUBLE TO MARIE COLLINGS
Marie Collings, who recorded outstanding distance swimming promise by winning
the 200 metres and the 400 metres Freestyle Championships (Wartime) at the last
State Carnival, showed early sprint form in winning the double at the Commercial
Club's opening at the Booroodabin Baths last night.
Norma Sumpton, a 14 year old junior, won three events.
Results – Ladies –
Senior Events -Freestyle 50m - M.Collings 1, J.Caswell 2
Breaststroke 100m - J.Caswell 1, M.Collings 2
Junior
Backstroke 50m -M.Collings 1, R.Keenan 2
Freestyle 50m - N.Sumpton 1, I.King 2
Breaststroke 50m - N.Sumpton 1, T.Sumpton 2
Backstroke 50m - N.Sumpton 1, T.Sumpton 2
Long Dive
G.Sumpton 1, J.Mahoney 2.
Men 50m Freestyle - W.Masters 1, F.Riddle 2
50 Freestyle Junior -A.Baldwin 1, A.Petigrew 2
Diving –
Senior
W.Nolan 1, A.Flanagan 2
Junior
C.Miller 1, A.Baldwin 2
Novice
G.Enever 1, P.Clifford 2.
C.M. Tuesday 17 October 1944
SWIM TITLES IN FEBRUARY
The Queensland Amateur Swimming Association’s Council decided to hold the State
and Country (War-time) Championships some time in February. The exact dates are to
be decided by the Executive and referred back to the Council for approval.
The introduction of a standard method of coaching, in booklet form, was
suggested. A sub-committee comprising R.Henderson, A.Clausen, E.Bonis, R.Franzen,
and S.Connell, was appointed to discuss ways and means to launch the scheme.
Office Bearers for Race Officials for the 1944-45 season are – Chairman of
Executive, E.A.Bale; Secretary, J.S.Emerson; Treasurer, R.S.Beer; Registrar,
J.Montgomery;
Assistant
Secretary,
H.R.Fitzpatrick;
Executive
Committee,
G.J.Nankavill, W.Shanahan, R.Franzen, A.Clausen, S.Connell; Race Officials –
Starter, R.Hodge; Timekeeper, F.W.Springfield; vCostume Stewards, W.Newton,
F.Clausen;
Diving
Committee,
W.Nolan,
G.Johnston,
F.W.Springfield;
Baths
Committee,T.Henderson
(Valley),G.Johnston
(Uni),
H.Maylon
(CP),
R.Franzen
(Valley), S.Aitchison (Western Districts).
-------------------C.M. Wednesday 18 October 1944
SWIM DOUBLE TO ROY ROGERS
Roy Rogers, 17 year old points winner of last season, had his first senior
success at the Commercial Club's weekly swim at the Valley Baths last night. He
won the 50m and 100m events.
Junior events - 50m and 100m - C.Miller
Dive - C.Miller
Novice
- 40 yards - T.Brisbane
Dive - B.Stemm , K.Asher, tied
Ladies events - Senior - R.Keenan won the F/s, Bk/s, Br/s and Plunge
Newman Cup event - N.Sumpton - who also won the Junior treble,
F/s, Br/s, and Bk/s.
C.M. Wednesday 25 October 1944
S.JACOBS WINS SWIM DOUBLE
A feature of the Commercial Club's events last night was the dual success of
S.Jacobs in the Service 100m Breaststroke and Backstroke Handicaps.
Results Men's Senior - 50m Freestyle - W.Masters
100m Br/s and Bk/s - S.Jacobs
Dive - W.Nolan
Junior - 50m F/s - K.Franklin
100m Br/s and Bk/s - C.Miller
Dive - A.Baldwin
Women's Senior - 50m F/s -N.Collings
50m Br/s and Bk/s - J.Caswell
Junior - 50m F/s - T.Sumpton
Br/s and Bk/s -N.Sumpton
-----------------C.M. Saturday 18 November 1944
LADIES SWIM TITLES STAND
The Queensland Ladies Amateur Swimming Association at a special meeting last
night reaffirmed its decision regarding the profits distribution for the State and
War-time Championships carnival. The Association wants the basis of profits
distribution to be fixed before the carnival is held, and that the distribution be
on the same basis as last year – 60% o the QASA, 40% to the QLASA.
Mr E.A.Bale, a delegate from the QASA, said that the QLASA was an affiliated
body and it had been treated fairly in the matter of the distribution of the
profits. The QLASA was not in a position to demand a basis of distribution, any
more than any other affiliated Association or Club.
Miss E.Strachan, Vice President, said that at present with the majority of the
best Queensland swimmers away, the ladies made the “gate”.
Mrs H.W.Miles, President, “We must have something definite before the carnival
is swum.”
In reply to a question, Mr Bale said that the QLASA could not hold a carnival
on its own.
Mrs Miles said she wished to make it quite clear that the Ladies were quite
satisfied with last year’s basis of distribution.
The following motion was carried with two dissentients – “That subject to the
approval of the Advisory Board of the QLASA, notice of motion be sent to the QASA
as an amendment to the motion passed at the last meeting of the QASA Council
(“That the distribution of profits be made after the carnival is held”), that the
distribution of profits be fixed prior to the carnival, and be on a similar basis
top that of last year, 60% to QASA, 40% to QLASA.”
------------------C.M. Friday 1 December 1944
SWIM STARS TO MEET
Several national title holders from other States will compete at the Red Cross
swimming carnival to be held at the Valley Baths on December 9.
Among the entrants are Geoff Ballentin (NSW sprint champion), Tom Boast (Qld
Olympian and State backstroke champion), Ross Dunn (a Sydney champion who was one
of Noel Ryan’s rivals), Alan Imrie (Qld distance champion),and a strong team from
the Netherlands East Indies.
The State Open champion, Neville Brough, Harry Sandiman, and Alan Davison, head
a strong contingent of the metropolitan contestants. Secondary schools champions
C.Hoey (BBC), R.Rodgers (C.E.G.S.), and P.McCarrol (Nudgee), will also swim in
scratch events.
In the women’s events 14 year old record holder Nancy Lyons, Iris Tubman
(sprint and backstroke), and Marie Collings (distance freestyle), will compete.
-------------------C.M. Tuesday 5 December 1944
SWIM STROKE BAN TO STAND
Ban on the “butterfly” breaststroke is to be continued by the Queensland
Amateur Swimming Association.
This decision was made at a Council meeting last
night.
The stroke was banned in all States in 1939, but recently the New South Wales
Associat-ion proposed the stroke be re-introduced into Australian competitive
swimming.
The Secretary (Mr J.S.Emerson) and Mr D.S.Carter, a recently appointed Vice
President of the Australian Swimming Union, condemned the butterfly stroke as it
subordinated all the finer techniques of orthodox breaststroke swimming for speed.
Mr Emerson’s motion to oppose the re-introduction was carried by an
overwhelming majority.
More than 100 individual entries have been received for the Red Cross carnival
to be conducted jointly by the QASA and the QLASA at the Valley Baths on Saturday
night.
The QASA has agreed to the date fixed for the State and War-time championships
in February, and suggested a conference be held between the representatives of the
QASA and the QLASA to formulate a basis in which the profits of the championship
carnivals be allocated.
TRAINING ROOM AT VALLEY BATHS
The City Council proposes to erect a Club Room to accommodate leading swimmers
and their trainers at the Valley Baths.
It will be 20 feet x 10 feet and will be situated in the south east corner.
Fittings will include seating accommodation and rubbing-down tables.
It is expected the club room will be made available for swimming carnivals this
summer.
C.M. Friday 8 December 1944
SWIMMING STARS AID RED CROSS
Swimmers in Olympic Games class will appear at the Red Cross carnival to be
held at the Valley Baths tomorrow night.
Pte Button A.I.F. (NSW freestyle champion), and Nancy Lyons (Qld breaststroke
champion), promise to provide the highlights of the carnival.
There are more than 200 individual entries for the 24 scratch events, the
outstanding events being the 200 metres freestyle and the 100 metres breaststroke.
The junior events, however, will draw most attention for the best in the
Primary and the G.P.S. schools and the cream of the talent from the metropolitan
clubs will compete.
BUTTON HAS BEATEN RYAN
Button, who is only 20 years of age, has beaten Geoff Valentin and Noel Ryan in
the 110, 220, and 440 yards championships of NSW in 1941. In the 200 metres
scratch race tomorrow he will be opposed by his earlier rival Valentin and Ross
Dunn. Queensland opponents will be Nev Brough, and Alan Davison, both State
champions.
Nancy Lyons form at the Dalby carnival held last Saturday and her meritorious
second to Edna Meares in the 150 metres medley handicap at the Brisbane distance
carnival show she is fast approaching her best form. Last January, in clocking 3
min 14 7/10 secs she broke her own Queensland record for the 200 metres
breaststroke. A better time being only recorded once before by Clare Dennis at the
last Olympic Games held in Los Angeles.
-----------------C.M. Tuesday 9 January 1945
TWO SWIMMING RECORDS TO FAMILY
Peter Lyons and Nancy Lyons of Coorparoo, brother and sister, are holders of
State swimming records – Peter is nearly 18 and Nancy 14.
Nancy swam 100 metres breaststroke at the Red Cross carnival at the Valley
Baths on December 9 in 1 min 229 4/5 secs. Peter covered the same distance in 1
min 25 secs. Both records were recognised at the Council meeting of the Queensland
Amateur Swimming Association last night.
It was announced that the proceeds from the Red Cross carnival amounted to one
hundred and thirty pounds.
The Chairman, Mr E.A.Bale, said that all sub-junior, junior, and Intermediate
races held by the QASA will be aged from October 1. Mr F.Springfield (Valley)
urged that the Queensland Ladies Amateur Swimming Association have the right to
fix the age for their own events. He moved that the Chairman’s ruling be disagreed
with. This was seconded by Mrs C.Mackay, but was defeated by a big majority.
Permission was granted to the Roma Association to hold a carnival on Foundation
Day.
The Country Championships will be held in Ipswich on February 23.
C.M. Tuesday 16 January 1945
WEALTH OF SWIM TALENT
Highlights of the War-time Swimming Championships to be held on February 17-24
are likely to be the races for the junior titles. Never has Queensland had such a
wealth of junior talent – Nancy Lyons, outstanding in girls events and in many
junior events, for men the best are Chris Harris of Rockhampton who won the 100
metres junior freestyle and the 100 metres freestyle country championships last
year, and another Rockhampton lad R.A.Langford who won the 100 metres Under 14
championship last year.
Maryborough will be represented by T.Benstead, formerly of Bowen, and Bowen by
R.Robinson whose trainer Graham Shadlow considers has a great future.
Two Doctors’ sons, R.Green of the Church of England Grammar School, and
P.Dodson from the Downlands College Toowoomba have been showing good form. Green
is considered to have bright prospects in the 200 metres, and Dodson was third to
Rogers and Springfield in the 100 metres in the recent Dalby carnival. That was
his first swim for the season.
He has improved since.
P.Boyce of Toowoomba will also throw out a challenge in the 100 metres. He was
second to Benstead in the Under 15 event last year.
I.Springfield (Valley) who won the 200 metres last year, R.Rogers second in the
sub-junior event, and Joe Pretorious, junior champion of the Sandgate Club, also
have improved.
STATES FAVOUR SWIM REVIVAL
Sydney, Monday
Enquiries made from swimming authorities in Australia indicate that all States
are in favour of holding the Australian Junior Swimming Championships this season.
Earl steps for the project are now being taken and a decision as to the venue is
also to be made. Feeling in Sydney tonight was that they should either be in
Sydney or Melbourne, although it is also known that Queensland is eager to stage
them owing to the great revival of junior swimming activity in that State.
The general view is that no matter where they are held, the carnival will be on
either February 3 or 10, providing transport arrangements for the competitors who
will be limited in numbers can be arranged.
-------------------C.M. Wednesday 17 January 1945
BROTHER AND SISTER IN SWIM TITLES
Peter and Nancy Lyons of Coorparoo, brother and sister, both hold records for
100 metres breaststroke.
“I get a great kick from swimming,” said Nancy after a training swim at the
Valley Baths yesterday. “I find it calls for little more effort for me than
running.”
A well-developed girl with powerful shoulders and shapely legs, Nancy has the
physique of a girl older than 14 years. Bright and intelligent, she is easy to
converse with and has a ready reply for any question asked about her career. She
weighs ten stone and is five feet seven inches tall.
Nancy was taught to swim by her father in Townsville when she was only four. In
recent years she has been receiving instruction from Miss M.Springfield who was
Queensland champion for twenty years, and who is also was Australian 200 metres
champion. Under Miss Springfield’s guidance her times have improved considerably.
She won her first swimming title, the Queensland junior women’s breaststroke
when 9, and the following year took the women’s open 200 metres championship.
ALL STROKES EXPERT
Although breaststroke is her favourite stroke, Nancy is a formidable exponent
of all strokes. She holds the Open and Junior breaststroke championships of
Queensland, the Open medley championship, the freestyle in her age group, and was
second in the Open backstroke.
“My immediate ambition,” she said, “is to win the Australian Junior
breaststroke and backstroke championships. Of course I have yet to swim the test
races. Later if I continue to improve I hope to go to the Olympic Games. Of course
every swimmer’s ambition is to win a world title.”
Nancy does not confine her interests to swimming. She also can dance and play
the piano. At present she is a pupil at Somerville House and intends to sit for
the Junior Exam this year.
Peter, in addition to holding the breaststroke record for 100 metres, also
holds the 100 metres junior and the 200 metres Open breaststroke titles and the
150 metres Open medley title. Last year at the Great Public Schools championships
he won both the 50 metres breaststroke and the 50 metres backstroke. He also
captained the Brisbane Grammar School team. He has won inter-school gymnastic
competitions.
Last year he passed his Senior Exam and he is hopeful of going to the
University to continue his studies.
(Picture of both Nancy and Peter)
C.M. Thursday 18 January 1945
D.STANFIELD’S YOUTHFUL CHALLENGE
Time trials for the coming State Swimming Championships were recorded at the
Valley Club’s swim last night.
Diana Stanfield covered the 50 metres freestyle in a senior women’s event in 32
seconds, equalling her own State junior record, and R.Green who finished second in
the men’s freestyle handicap was timed to swim the 100 metres in 1 min 10 4/5
secs, only 1 second outside the winning time of the 15 years championship last
year.
In his first swim for four years, C.Michel won the 100 metres championship.
The women’s 200 metres breaststroke championship was won by Nancy Lyons in 3
min 18 1/5 secs, well outside her best time.
C.M. Monday 22 January 1945
LYONS BEAT OWN STATE RECORD
13 year old Nancy Lyons took a second off her own sub-junior record in a test
swim in the Valley Baths yesterday. She covered the distance in 1 min 18 4/5 secs.
The 100 metres junior women’s freestyle test race was won by Judy Young. Her
time of 1 min 18 1/5 secs was about two seconds better than he has swum
previously.
Results of test races for junior boys were – 100 metres junior freestyle,
R.Rogers (C.E.G.S) 69 2/5; 100 metres breaststroke, K.White (V) 1.42 1/10; 100
metres backstroke, R.Young (V) 1.35.
Metropolitan test races were held to select six Queensland representatives (3
girls and 3 boys) who will compete in the Australian Junior Championships in
Sydney on February 10.
15 year old Roma girl Denise Spencer did 100 metres freestyle test in Roma
yesterday in 1 min 11 secs. Denise has improved by 6 1/5 seconds since she won the
100 metres State junior title last year.
Peter Dodson took 69 1/5 seconds for 100 metres, the same time as R.Rogers in
Brisbane.
---------------C.M. Tuesday 23 January 1945
JUNIOR SWIM TEAM CHOSEN
Five junior swimmers were chosen by the Executive of the Queensland Amateur
Swimming Association last night to represent Queensland at the National Titles in
Sydney on February 10. They are – Girls – Denise Spencer (Roma) freestyle; Nancy
Lyons (Valley) back-stroke and breaststroke; Judy Young (Valley freestyle. Boys –
Rodney Rogers (C.E.G.S) and Peter Dodson (Roma) both freestyle;.
Mr J.S.Emerson, Secretary of the QASA will be Manager of the team and Mrs
Mackay Secretary of the Queensland Ladies Amateur Swimming Association will be
Chaperone.
Mr T.Boast, Olympic representative, who has been discharged from the R.A.A.F.
will coach the team until it leaves for Sydney on February 6.
A strong Brisbane team of twelve men and four women was chosen to compete in
the Roma carnival next Sunday.
The men’s team which will leave Brisbane on Friday is – Alan Davison (Varsity),
K.White (C.E.G.S), R.Green (C.E.G.S), I.Springfield (Valley), A.Wright (C.E.G.S),
F.Gardiner (Valley), J.Purtell (Western Districts),R.Hogan (Sandgate), C.Hoey
(B.B.C), N.Parker (C.E.G.S), J.Boast (Valley), N.Silver (Sandgate), with Mr
A.Clausen as Manager.
------------------
C.M. Thursday 25 January 1945
D.SPENCER’S RECORD IN 100 METRES SWIM
Roma, Monday
15 year old Roma girl swimmer, Denise Spencer, broke the State record for 100
metres in the women’s Open freestyle at the Roma inter-town carnival in Roma last
night. Her time was 1 min 11 1/5 secs. The carnival attracted many swimmers from
Brisbane and Dalby.
-----------------C.M. Thursday 1 February 1945
QUEENSLANDERS READY FOR SWIM TITLES
“It is expected Queenslanders will win two titles at the Australian Junior
Champion- ships to be held in Sydney on February 10,” said the team Manager, Mr
J.S.Emerson, yesterday.
Miss Nancy Lyons should take the 100 metres breaststroke and Miss Denise
Spencer the freestyle. I also give great hope for Miss Lyons in the backstroke.
The championships comprise six events – 100 metres freestyle, 100 metres
breaststroke and 100 metres backstroke each for boys and girls. You must be under
sixteen on the date of the championships.
Queensland will be represented in only four events as Peter Dodson and Rodney
Rogers will not swim in the breaststroke or backstroke for boys. Denise Spencer
will compete in the freestyle only. Nancy Lyons will swim in the breaststroke and
backstroke, and Judy Young in the freestyle and breaststroke.
The backstroke and breaststroke events are being contested for the first time,
their inclusion being largely the result of representations made by the Queensland
Amateur Swimming Association.
JUNIORS IN NEW SWIM RECORDS
Rodney Rogers, 14, last night lopped 2 1/5 seconds off the men’s 200 metres
junior record. In the A Grade junior handicap he finished in the actual time of 2
min 39 4/5 secs, four seconds faster than the senior championship time last night.
Nancy Lyons broke her previous breaststroke record by 1/10 sec established last
year.
C.M. Thursday 15 February 1945
WILL FLY TO SWIM IN STATE TITLES
So keen is Vic Trimble to regain the 100 metres Queensland swimming
championship that he will fly from Rockhampton to Brisbane to compete in
Saturday’s races. Trimble, who has not competed in races since 1939, has been
training privately in the Fitzroy River six miles out of Rockhampton, and has been
reported to have swum fast time in event trials. Last Monday he covered 108 yards
(close to 100 metres) in 64 1/5 seconds without being extended. There is no doubt
he will have a serious challenger for the title in Mr J.Codd, a member of the
Rockhampton team. He is swimming so well, whoever beats him will win. Trimble will
find Rod Button of the R.A.A.F also hard to beat.
Other swimmers who will keep Trimble and Button at their top are C.Michel
(Valley), W.J.Ellis (NSW – now in the A.I.F), W.Clarke (Navy), and N.Brough (City
Pastime).
D.Smith should be hard to beat in the 200 metres intermediate (Under 18)
championship. Y.Wright last year’s senior G.P.S. Champion and T.Holmes (son of the
Toowoomba Bulimba Cup footballer) are possibilities. Smith has covered the 108
yards in Rockhampton in 65 2/5 seconds.
A record of 1180 entries has been received for the carnival. This was
previously 939, last year.
FINE SWIM BY DENISE SPENCER
Feature of the Valley Club swim last night was the fine swimming of Denise
Spencer of Roma in the 150 metres A junior event in 2 mins 0 4/5 secs.
-------------------C.M. Tuesday 20 February 1945
200 METRES TITLE TO R BUTTON
Leading all the way, R.Button, A.I.F trooper who served for ten months in New
Guinea, won the 200 metres freestyle championship at the State Swimming
Championships last night, beating W.Clark (R.A.N) by three yards. The former New
South Wales champion covered the distance in 2 mins 25 2/5 secs, 5 2/5 seconds
outside W.Fleming’s race record, and 10 seconds outside his own best time for the
distance.
Former State champion, V.Trimble, did not swim the 200 metres but clocked a win
for Rockhampton in the 250 metres Country Squadrons Championship.
Diana Stanfield, a New Guinea evacuee, took the 50 metres women’s freestyle
title beating Iris Tubman the winner of the 100 metres by a touch with Denise
Spencer a few yards further back.
Nancy Lyons won the 50 metres junior backstroke, the 200 metres senior breaststroke, and Under 15 50 metres freestyle titles. Her backstroke time of 39 4/5
seconds was 1 second outside the race record held by M.Davison.
Her brother, Peter Lyons, clipped 2 9/10 seconds off the record in winning the
150 metres medley championship. I.Brown who finished second also improved 2 1/5
seconds on his best time for the race.
R.Rogers broke the race record by 3 2/5 seconds in wining the 14 & Under 15 100
metres freestyle in 68 3/5 seconds.
-----------------------C.M. Friday 23 February 1945
SEAMAN IN LINE FOR SWIMMING TREBLE
Seaman W.B.Clark of the R.A.N. should complete a treble at the final carnival
of the State Championships at the Valley Baths tonight.
Clark has already won the 1500 and 800 metres titles, and will compete n the
400 metres in which F.Thee (Brisbane) should be his closest rival. Thee won the
City Pastime 440 yards title recently in 5 mins 42 secs and swam stroke for stroke
with Clark for the first 300 metres of the 800 metres title.
Others in the field include N.BROUGH, I.Springfield, C.Michel, C.Plunkett and
C.Hoey (winner of last year’s All Schools 400 metres).
Jim Johnson of the A.I.F. who won the Australian championship in 1940, will
compete against Peter Lyons (holder of the title) in the 200 metres breaststroke.
J.Meredith, former Queensland champion, will also swim.
Denise Spencer and Diana Stanfield will clash in the 100 metres junior women’s
free- style for which Judy Young has also entered.
In the 150 metres women’s medley championship Nancy Lyons (holder of the
title)will be opposed by Iris Tubman and Marie Collings.
The junior 100 metres freestyle should be a great race with R.Rogers winner of
th 200 metres junior, A.T.Quant, R.Green, G.Bendeich, R.Langford, R.harris,
R.Waddington, P.Dodson, and T.Benstead in the field.
The City Pastime, holders of the 250 metres flying squadrons championship, will
meet strong opposition from Valley, Rockhampton, Maryborough, C.E.G.S, and
University.
-------------------
C.M. Saturday 24 February 1945
COUNTRY TITLE TO DENISE SPENCER
Ipswich, Friday
Denise Spencer (Roma) was successful in the 50metres Open Championship for
women at the City Baths tonight when three country swim titles were decided.
C.Osborne (Maryborough) won the 100 metres Open Championship, and T.Benstead
(Maryborough) the 50 metres Junior Men’s Championship.
------------------FULL RESULTS from the several sessions of State Championships were given in
the Annual Report for the year.
------------------C.M. Tuesday 27 March 1945
SWIM CARNIVAL TO HELP APPEAL
A swimming carnival in aid of the Limbless Soldiers Patriotic Appeal will be
held on Saturday April 14. This was decided at a special Executive meeting of the
QASA last night.
A team of swimmers will leave on Thursday night for Bowen to take part in the
North Queensland Championships on March 31.
The team comprises R.Waddington (Dalby), R.Colbert (Toowoomba), C.King,
R.Benstead,
C.Petersen
and
R.Petersen
(Maryborough),
D.Smith,
R.Harris
(Rockhampton),
G.D.Johnston,
P.Lyons,
P.Parker,
R.Young,
and
D.Studeman
(Brisbane).
They will be accompanied by QASA officials.
-----------------C.M. Tuesday 15 April 1945
STATE SEEKS SWIM TITLES
Moves to have the Australian Junior Swimming Championships held here next
season have been made known by the Queensland Amateur Swimming Association at a
meeting of Council on Monday. Delegates endorsed a recommendation of the Executive
that the Australian Swimming Union be asked to take a vote on the following –
“That the Australian Junior Championships be held in the 1945-46 season. That
the Championships be held in Brisbane. That a Conference of the ASU be held.”
It was decided to vote “No” on a motion submitted by Western Australia, “That
for the duration of the war the Australian Junior Swimming Championships be held
in Melbourne.”
A net profit of more than five hundred pounds is likely from the State
Championships held in February. Total income amounted to seven hundred and thirty
seven pounds, gross takings for the four carnivals being five hundred and ninety
pounds.
Delegates endorsed a recommendation that ₤8, part of the cost of issuing 10,000
copies of a booklet “Introduction to Swimming” be paid by the Association. The
booklet which is being compiled in collaboration with the Department of Public
Instruction (Physical Education) is expected to be circulated soon.
C.M. Saturday 29 September 1945
300 YARDS MEDLEY RELAY FOR WOMEN
A 300 yards Open Medley teams relay for women will be added to the State’s
swimming programme this season. This was decided at the Queensland Ladies Amateur
Swimming Association Annual Meeting last night. It was also decided to lengthen
the distance of the 40 metres Under 12 years to 50 metres.
The meeting observed a minute’s silence in memory of the late QLASA resident,
Mrs H.W.Miles, who died last week.
Office bearers elected were – Patroness, Mrs McGregor-Lowndes; President, Mrs
O.Anderson; Vice Presidents, Lady Cilento, Mesdames W.L.Gall, R.B.Lyons,
H.McMaster, J.Montgomery, H.Spiro, C.S.Tait, A.Woods, B.Bowman, Miss Granvill; Hon
Registrar, Miss J.Miles; Hon Handicapper, Miss L.Montgomery; Hon Auditors, Misses
E.Thurlow, A.Frederick; Delegates to QASA, Mrs K.D.Mackay, Miss L.Muller.
C.M. Tuesday 2 October 1945
SWIMMING TITLES LIKELY SOON
A request for the resumption of the National Swimming Titles for both men and
women this season was viewed favourably by a special meeting of the Queensland
Amateur Association last night.
A mail vote is being conducted by the Australian Swimming Union on a proposal
by the N.S.W.A.S.A. “That National “Victory” Championships for seniors and juniors
be held in Melbourne in late January or early February next year.”
Queensland’s “Yes” vote to the NSW proposal is not likely to want for
Victorian backing, and with South Australia and Tasmania also likely to agree, a
majority for “Yes’ is likely.
SWIMMING OPENING
Swimming season’s opening activities will begin tonight when Western
Districts Club will stage events in the Ithaca Baths.
Other metropolitan competition clubs opening nights will be – Valley,
tomorrow night at the Valley Baths; Commercial, next Tuesday in the Valley Baths;
Sandgate, Tuesday October 16 at the Sandgate Baths.
City Pastime has fixed no date yet, but will hold its Annual Meeting next
Monday in St Luke’s Hall.
C.M. Wednesday 10 October 1945
NO POOL FOR BIG SWIM TITLES
“Lack of a suitable pool is the main bar for holding national swimming
championships in Brisbane,” said the Hon Treasurer Mrs R.S.Beer at the Annual
Meeting of the Queensland Amateur Swimming Association last night. He was informed
the number of swimming baths in Brisbane had decreased by two, to five, in the
last twenty years, he said. In New South Wales a grant of one thousand pounds was
made annually by the government to encourage swimming.
Advancement of swimming in Queensland last season was helped by £250 from the
QASA for tours to country centres, representation at the National Junior
Championships, and for defraying part of the cost of a publication of an
educational booklet for swimming teaching.
Leather wallets were presented last night to G.Newton, B.Loch, W.Webb,
G.Farley, E.O’Donnell, J.Stanfield, and L.Abrahams, for their work as programme
sellers at the last State Championship. They raised more than fifty pounds.
Office Bearers elected for this season were – Patron, The Governor, Sir
Leslie Wilson; Vice Patron, The Lord Mayor, Mr J.B.Chandler; President, Mr
D.S.Carter; Vice Presidents, Messrs H.Malyon, E.A.Bale, A.Woods, J.E.Ross,
H.A.Whitehouse; Handicapper, J.Montgomery; Hon Solicitors, A.W.Bale & Son; Hon
Auditors, Messrs N.Lyons, F.C.Russell.
The first Council meeting will be October 22.
C.M. Friday 12 October 1945
THREE COACHES FOR SWIM CLUB
Three instructors have been engaged by the Leander Swimming Club for the
opening of the swimming season at the Ithaca Baths tomorrow.
Frank Venning will instruct in freestyle and diving, J.H.Robertson in
freestyle and backstroke, and R.Franzen in breaststroke. The Club will hold
competition swims at the Valley Bath on Thursday night.
Office Bearers elected at last night’s first Club meeting were – Patron,
B.Pie, President, J.S.Emerson; Vice Presidents, H.G.Fielding, D.McWhirter,
E.A.Bale, H.A.Whitehouse, H.Marshall, Dr A.Davison; Treasurer, L.Anderson;
Registrar, J.Cleeve Snr; Hon Secretary, J.K.Rigden; Assistant Secretary, D.Davies;
Executive Committee, A.E.Powys, C.Harris, H.A.Whitehouse, R.Burrell, R.E.Franzen,
Mesdames V.Cain, S.C.Mercer.
--------------------C.M. Wednesday 23 October 1945
STATE SWIMS IN FEBRUARY
The State Swimming Championship carnivals are to be held on February 16, 18,
20, and 23, with diving events on February 17 in conjunction with the Allied
Services Sunday swim.
This schedule was decided on at te first Council meeting of the QASA last
night, and will follow the National Championships in Melbourne at the end of
January or the beginning of February.
Junior backstroke distances will be increased from 50 metres to 100 metres,
and 300 metres Club medley relays in senior and junior will be added to the
programme.
Other carnival dates decided for the season were – Ipswich Mercantile,
November 5; Maryborough, November 26; Valley Mercantile November 26; Dalby,
December 1; Red Cross Carnival December 8.
QASA Officials elected last night were – Chairman of Council, E.A.Bale; Hon
Secretary, J.S.Emerson; Hon Treasurer, R.S.Beer; Hon Registrar, J.Montgomery; Hon
Assistant Secretary, H.R.D.Fitzpatrick; Executive Committee, R.Franzen, A.Clausen,
W.Holland, G.Nankavill, S.Connell; Starter, R.Hodge; Costume Stewards, W.Milton,
H.Norris; Timekeeper, W.Pols; Diving Sub-committee, N.Burn, G.Johnston, W.Nolan,
W.Morrall, Mrs W.Henry; Baths Sub-committee, H.Malyon, R.Franzen, S.Connell,
H.A.Whitehouse,
J.Martin;
Clothing
Sub-committee,
R.Franzen,
S.Connell,
J.Montgomery, R.S.Beer, G.Nankavill, A.Clausen, E.Bonis.
---------------------C.M. Tuesday 13 November 1945
SWIM TESTS FOR TITLE ASPIRANTS
Test races for aspirants for the State team for the National Swimming
Championships in Melbourne in February will be held in Brisbane and all country
Centres which have Clubs affiliated with the QASA.
The test races which will be conducted over the distances of the national
title races will be held on January 5 and 15. Selectors of the team elected at
last night’s QASA Executive meeting are J.S.Emerson, J.Montgomery, and W.Holland.
--------------------
C.M. Friday 16 November 1945
BILL FLEMING TURNS “PRO”
The former Empire Games swimmer has turned professional and will begin
coaching classes at the Valley Baths next week. At the last Empire Games in Sydney
in 1938 Fleming was the only Australian to gain a place in the freestyle events,
and he was third in the 100 metres, finishing ahead of R.Biddulph.
He held Australian 200 metres titles and for a time held the record for 200
metres in 2 min 19 2/5 secs. In 1936 he toured New Zealand on an educational
coaching campaign.
Fleming was discharged from the army recently, joining up in 1939. He served
in England, Greece, Crete, Syria, Ceylon, and New Guinea.
------------------C.M. Wednesday 21 November 1945
SWIMMING SIDELIGHTS
Bill Fleming, who was to have started coaching classes at the Valley Baths on
Monday, collapsed with an attack of malaria before he was there half an hour. He
had to be taken to hospital.
Marjorie Clauscen won both women’s freestyle events and was narrowly beaten
in the backstroke and breaststroke races at Sandgate Club last week. Her actual
time for the 66 yards was 50 3/5 seconds which is only 1/5 second slower than
interstate swimmer Rita Smith’s record. Marjorie who is 17 is being specially
coached in backstroke this season.
Coaching in diving is to be obtained for Mavis O’Brien, the 15 year ld
Western Districts girl diver who created a great impression in her first public
appearance at the Limbless Soldiers carnival in April. Even without coaching she
is diving better than last season.
Nominations for Valley Club’s eleventh mercantile teams handicap for the
Elphingston Shield next Wednesday night close on Saturday. The thirteen event to
be held in conjunction will be comprised entirely of popular scratch races.
The first Annual Dinner of the Queensland Amateur Swimming Association is
scheduled for December 15. Last year’s officials of the QASA and members of the
Executive will attend.
No official QLASA team will be sent to Dalby for the Red Cross carnival on
December 1 as Valley Ladies will be holding their mixed night on that date. It is
understood that permission will be granted to individual swimmers who wish to make
the trip. The QASA team will be selected on Tuesday night.
----------------------C.M. Wednesday 28 November 1945
SWIMMING SIDELIGHTS
Entries for the mercantile relay for the Elphingston Shield tonight have
attracted 39 teams. In addition, 32 events of interclub scratch races will be
contested.
Nominations for the junior races will be heavy and some will require three
heats before the final. “Blue Ribbon” events, the Open 100 and 200, will require
two heats each before the final.
Women’s 100 metres breaststroke is expected to provide the thrill of the
night, Nancy Lyons and Edna Meares clashing with Marie Collings. The distance
should suit Marie Collings best.
The QASA team to go to Dalby carnival on Saturday will be – N.Brough, F.Thee,
C.Michel, K.Graham, W.Holland, J.Ellis, R.Coates, A.Davison, I.Young, B.Davies,
R.Grierson, C.Hoey, J.Baldwin, J.Meredith, E.Hogan, J.Allanson, L.Edge, M.Davison,
D.Davison, M.Beer, M.Clauscen, V.Shepherd, V.Bowman, I.Conlon, M.O’Brien. Mrs
Bowman will go as Chaperone, Mr E.A.Bale and Mr J.S.Emerson will be joint
Managers.
The Valley Ladies interclub carnival also scheduled for Saturday night has
received 155 entries for the 12 events.
N.Parker swam well in the intermediate breaststroke events last season and he
has gone to Melbourne for special breaststroke coaching from Tom Donnett who
tutored the champion girl, Judy Joy Davies. Parker will return for the test races
in January with an eye for inclusion in the State team.
------------------C.M. Thursday 29 November 1945
GIRL BEATS SEVEN MEN TO WIN SWIM RELAY
Iris Tubman, State 100 metres freestyle champion, outpaced seven men over the
last lap to win the mercantile handicap relay for the Caltex 2 team at the Valley
Baths last night. The first team home finished half the length of the pool ahead
of the other teams but broke their submitted time by 12 seconds and were
disqualified. The remaining eight finalists finished within a few seconds of each
other after starting almost together. Miss Tubmaan drew away from the other
competitors in the last 10 metres.
In the heat, Miss Tubman raced her team into the semi-finals with a
paralysing burst after Caltex seemed hopelessly out of it.
Official placings in the final were – Caltex 2 (J.Sinclair, M.Cassidy,
E.Hambleton, Miss I.Tubman) 1, Maxim 1 2, Peters Ice Cream 3.
NANCY LYONS DOUBLE
National junior backstroke and breaststroke champion, Nancy Lyons, left in no
doubt the result of the Open back and breaststroke events in the interclub mixed
carnival. She led all the way in both and swam within 2/5 second off her National
junior breaststroke swim.
Judy Young recorded a smart time of 1 min 17 4/5 secs in her 100 metres
junior women’s freestyle swim, but later she was comfortably beaten in the women’s
Open 100 metres by the metropolitan open freestyle champion marie Collings who won
in 1 min 18 4/5 secs.
Fred Thee (City Pastime) drew attention to his claims for representation over
longer distances in drawing away from Bob Coates over the last 15 metres in the
men’s Open 200 metres freestyle after the pair had swum stroke for stroke over
most of the way. His time was the best clocked over 200 metres this season – 2 min
36 2/5 secs.
One of the most outstanding times of the night was 66 seconds by Nev Brough
over 100 metres to complete a double for City Pastime in the Open freestyle races.
He led by more than 2 metres at the turn from the junior champion, Rod Rogers, and
drew away at the end.
WANTS TITLES IN SYDNEY
“The Queensland Amateur Swimming Association has voted for Sydney as the
venue for this season’s National Championships,” the Hon Secretary, Mr
J.S.Emerson, said last night. It has also stipulated that the championship
carnival be conducted by the New South Wales Association, the NSW Association
receiving 75% of the net proceeds and the balance going to the Australian Swimming
Union.
Mr Emerson said that in the past the National Titles carnival had been
conducted by a State for the Union. The ASU now sought to have this reversed and
conduct its own carnival. The Australian championships are scheduled to begin on
February 2, but the venue is still in doubt.
If South Australia, the only State which has not yet registered its vote,
supports Victoria, the States will be evenly divided between Sydney and Melbourne.
In that case the championships will be held in Melbourne whose turn it was before
the championships were suspended because of the war.
(Picture of Judy Young at the pool on Dec 1)
-------------------
C.M. Tuesday 4 December 1945
STATE SWIMMERS TO FLY TO TITLES
The Queensland team to compete in the National Swimming Championships in
Melbourne on February 2-9 will make the trip by air.
This as decided by the QASA Council last night. The swimmers will fly to
Melbourne on January 30 and return by air on February 11.
Members of the team will be required to sin an agreement to ensure discipline
which will place them under the control of the team Manager. Nominations for the
State team close on January 16. Test races will be conducted all over Queensland
in the previous ten days.
Most of the metropolitan tests and the diving tests
will be held in conjunction with the Allied Services swim at the Valley Baths on
January 13.
By three to two, the States by mail vote rejected the proposal to change the
venue of the titles from Melbourne to Sydney.
BUTTERFLY STROKE BAN
The QASA decided to vote for the retention of the Australian ban on the use
of the butterfly stroke. A recommendation will be submitted to the Conference that
the stroke be put in a separate class from breaststroke.
All men’s races at the State Championships will be scratch events. Handicaps
for women will be held only on the Monday and Wednesday of the carnival week.
Memorial handicaps are to be deleted from the championship carnivals programme,
and will be allocated to Clubs which desire to hold them.
The State Country Championships will be held at Ipswich on February 22.
QASA and QLASA teams will be sent to the Roma inter-town carnival on December
31.
Bowen was granted permission to hold the North Queensland Championships in
December.
-------------------C.M. Friday 7 December 1945
SWIM STARS AT VALLEY
Brisbane’s best swimmers in all strokes will compete in novelty relay races
at the Red Cross swimming carnival at the Valley Baths tomorrow night. A programme
of individual interclub scratch and relay events will be expanded by heats and
finals to 25 races.
Main races will be the 300 metres men’s medley and 400 metres freestyle in
which one man will swim 200 metres, one will swim 100 metres, and the other two
members 50 metres each
Women have interclub 150 metres medley relay.
The Leander Club has a smooth team for the 400 metres relay with Bob Coates
for the 200, Alan Davison for the 100, and two All Schools champions, C.Hoey and
W.Chandler, for the two lap dashers.
City Pastime has the best 200 metres man in Fred Thee, and the State 100
metres champion N.Brough.
Peter Lyons should get far enough ahead in the breaststroke section of the
300 metres medley relay for Valley No 1 team, and with Bill Holland (backstroke)
and Col Michel (freestyle) should win.
Half the programme will be women’s junior events, and Valley Ladies expect
three wins at least with Judy Young (junior freestyle), Nancy Lyons (Open
breaststroke), and Iris Tubman (Open freestyle).
COATES GOOD TIME
Bob Coates clocked the best time recorded for a 200 metres swim this season,
2 mins 34 secs at a Leander Club weekly meeting at the Valley Baths last night.
Peter Maxwell, of Ipswich, who beat Bob Young at Dalby on Saturday, was
relegated to third place by Young and Ray Colbert (Toowoomba) in the 200 metres
junior freestyle.
------------------C.M. Tuesday 18 December 1945
SWIMMERS TO VISIT ROMA
Thirty nine Brisbane swimmers will take part in the Roma carnival on
December 31. Three QASA officials – J.S.Emerson, G.J.Nankavill, and S.A.Connell –
will accompany the team to act as Timekeepers in anticipation of fast times by
Denise Spencer who has been training in Roma, her home town.
(Members of team listed)
------------------C.M. Thursday 10 January 1946.
SWIM FIND OUT OF SWIM TITLES
Peter Maxwell of Ipswich, named the “find of the swimming season”, broke
his collar bone in a fall from a bicycle on Wednesday afternoon.
Peter’s trainer, Bill Fleming, expected to bring Maxwell’s time for 100
metres freestyle down near 66 seconds. This would have put him in line for a
national title trip to Melbourne, as the best times yet recorded by State junior
champion Rodney Rogers are more than 67 seconds.
Another possible Queensland representative who will not be available for
the State team is Alan Davison. He is recovering after a spell in hospital with an
infection of the leg. His swim of 24 3/5 seconds in November is the best
backstroke time recorded this season. He is also a former State medley champion.
State junior backstroke champion, Robert Young, already has been announced
as a casualty with a broken finger.
SELECT ALL THREE
On the administrative side, State selector John Montgomery is out with an
attack of pneumonia.
The Queensland team will be picked after the conclusion of the State-wide
tests next Tuesday.
The initial carnival of the metropolitan tests will be held tonight at the
Valley Baths. Main interest lies in the fact whether Clarence Hoey can keep going
long enough in the faster butterfly stroke to defeat Peter Lyons who swims the
orthodox breaststroke. Hoey swam 53 4/5for 66 metres at Roma. If he can keep up
this rate he should swim 1 min 21secs for the 100.
The women’s 100 metres trial will bring together Iris Tubman, State
champion and Nancy Lyons, junior champion. The older girl beat Nancy in 1 min 26
secs in December, but Nancy swan 1 min 25 2/5 secs on Wednesday night. Marie
Collings, who will also start, beat both over 50 metres in April.
---------------------C.M. Saturday 12 January 1946
WIN BY IMRIE AT THIRD TRY
After recording two seconds in the two preceding nights, State pre-war
middle distance champion, Alan Imrie, took the 400 metres freestyle Satate
swimming trial at the Valley Baths last night. He gave the event all-the-way
swimming and stood off a determined challenge by surf champion Fred Thee over the
last lap to win in 5 mins 36 1/5 secs.
-----------------C.M. Monday 14 January 1946
IMPROVED TO TAKE DIVE
Close second and third in the past two years in the State women’s dive,
Ngaire Langdon won the State junior women’s diving test at the Valley Baths
yesterday. Coral Springfield, who beat her last season, did not compete.
Ngaire beat Mavis O’Brien. She is revealing better form than last year and
will be a strong contender for the state title. Mavis O’Brien who is 16 years old
will still be eligible as a junior in the State championships but over the age
limit for the national titles. Junior test winner, Jill Shanahan was third with
63.1 points and was unopposed in the junior trial
JOHNSTON ON TOP
State champion George Johnston admitted that his diving in the men’s open
test which he won was one of the best he had done in recent years. He recorded
144.7 points from ten dives to beat Mick Cannon, 72.2 points.
Junior title holder Ivan Mitchell was the only starter in the junior test.
Times in the swimming trials were not impressive in the tepid water. State
intermediate backstroke champion Ian Brown took the backstroke test in the best
time recorded this season, 1 min 22 2/5 secs which is well below national senior
standard.
Nancy Lyons, junior backstroke, Iris Tubman, open freestyle, and John
Baldwin, junior breaststroke, were not extended in their swims but their inclusion
in the State team is assured.
-------------------C.M. Tuesday 15 January 1946
NANCY LYONS IN LINE FOR SWIM AWARD
Queenslander Nancy Lyons should be in line for the award of the best
performed woman swimmer at the National Swimming Championships in Melbourne next
month.
(The recipient for women proved to be Denise Spencer. Ed)
Trophies for the man and woman swimmer who most nearly approaches world
standard have been donated by the ASU President, Mr H.A.Benett. Nancy won the
junior 110 yards breaststroke at the junior titles in Sydney last year in
Australian record time. She also took the junior backstroke championship in
Australian junior record time. At the Queensland titles a month later she broke
the Queensland record of 3 min 12 2/5 secs for 200 metres Open women’s
breaststroke established by Olympic representative Claire Dennis.
Interstate teams freestyle and medley relays for men and women have been
included in the championship carnival. The relays will not be championship events
but will provide an additional interstate competitive interest.
C.M.
Wednesday 16 January 1946
TEST SWIM WIN BY SPRINGFIELD
Seventeen year old Irving Springfield took the State Open 1500 meres test
swim by half the length of the pool at the Valley Baths last night. His time of 23
min 17 1/5 secs was only 17 ½ seconds slower than the clocking of the New South
Wales star Bill Clark in winning the Queensland title last season.
Irving is the nephew of three swimming personalities Frank, Sid, and Mabel
Springfield. Frank was an Olympic representative, Sid a national champion, and
Mabel a State champion and very nearly an Australian title holder.
The new Springfield star has been swimming since he was five years old and
has always been coached by his aunt Mabel. He swam a very heady race to win the
junior 200 metres two years ago, and last night showed an old head on young
shoulders. He led all the way.
Junior Val Sheppard also recorded a clear cut win over Marie Collings in the
women’s 400 trial. She led all the way and amazingly kept up a fast first lap rate
to clock 6 min 7 1/5 secs. This was better than Uvon Crittenden’s time in the NSW
women’s 440 yards at the weekend.
Tactics again played a large part in Peter Lyons 300 metres medley win from
Bill Gillies and Ian Brown in 4 mins 41 4/5.
----------------C.M. Thursday 17 January 1946
14 YEAR OLD MAY MAKE SWIM SIDE
Fourteen year old Connie McLoughlin, although beaten in the State junior
women’s swim test last week, may yet get her chance for the State swimming team to
compete at the national titles in Melbourne. She will swim in the women’s 100
metres freestyle event at the combined University trials and Leander Club swim at
the Valley Baths tonight.
HAS IMPRESSED COACH
Former national champion, Bill Fleming, who is coaching Connie, believes she
will go close to winning a national title if given opportunity.
Another who will make a bid for the State team at tonight’s University
trials will be Alan Davison former State backstroke champion. He was kept out of
the tests last week with a leg injury.
With team manager, chaperone and coach the State team may total eighteen.
Denise Spencer, Nancy Lyons, Edna Meares, Iris Tubman, and Val Sheppard have
already been nominated by the QLASA to the QASA selection committee who will
select the team tomorrow night. For men’s events, diver George Johnston, Nev
Brough, Alan Davison, Peter Lyons, Irving Springfield, Rodney Rogers, John
Baldwin, and Alan Imrie are likely candidates.
-----------------C.M.
Saturday 19 January 1946
STATE SWIM TEAM CHOSEN
Fifteen swimmers were chosen by the QASA committee last night to represent
Queensland at the National Swimming Championships in Melbourne beginning on
February 2.
Members of the team and the events in which they will swim are Men – N.Brough, Open freestyle 110 and 220 yards; Alan Imrie, Open
freestyle 220, 440, 880; Irving Springfield, Open freestyle 880, 1650; Alan
Davison, Open freestyle 110, 220, backstroke 220,medley 330; Peter Lyons, Open
breaststroke 220, medley 330; Bill Gillies, Open breaststroke 220, medley 330;
George Johnston, Open dive; Rodney Rogers, Open freestyle 220, junior 110; John
Baldwin, junior breaststroke 110.
Women – Denise Spencer, Open freestyle 110, 220, 440, 880; Nancy Lyons,
Open backstroke 110, breaststroke 220, Junior breaststroke 110, backstroke 110;
Iris Tubman, Open freestyle 110, 220; Val Sheppard, open freestyle 440, junior
110; Edna Meares, Open breaststroke 220, ; Connie McLoughlin junior freestyle 110.
Officials will be Mr J.S.Emerson, Manager, Mrs C.Mackay, Chaperone, Mr
W.Holland official coach.
The team will leave Brisbane by train on January 27, and leave Melbourne for
return on February 10.
The State Championships begin in Brisbane on February 16.
----------------C.M. Saturday 26 January 1946
ROGERS DROPPED FROM SWIM TEAM
Swimming star, Rodney Rogers, was dropped last night from the State team to
visit Melbourne for the Australian championships. The decision was announced by
the team Manager, Mr J.S.Emerson, who is Secretary of the QASA.
“It was approved unanimously by the Association’s Executive committee,” Mr
Emerson said.
Rogers is one of the most brilliant juniors the State has produced, and
Emerson conceded that he had excellent prospects of winning the national 110 yards
national title.
Mr Emerson said that Rogers alone of the fifteen team members had not signed
the agreement placing himself under the Manager’s jurisdiction.
Mrs Rogers informed him yesterday that she proposed to book seats for herself
and her son on a plane to reach Melbourne prior to the event in which he was due
to compete next Tuesday. Mr Emerson told Mrs Rogers he would have to leave with
himself, the official coach Mr Holland, and others members of the team tomorrow.
She said she would consult her husband.
TO FILL PLACE
Later when he rang Mrs Rogers, she told him the QASA arrangements were
unsuitable. I said,” If he arrangements did not suit Rodney, he would not go to
Melbourne and I would try to get someone to fill his place. My decision was
subsequently approved by the Executive committee,” said Mr Emerson.
Mr Carl Rogers, Rodney’s father, said that the flight to Melbourne would have
been at his expense to enable his son to attend the re-opening of his school. ”I
want my boy to be under his mother’s care,” he said. “I understand the
accommodation in Melbourne leaves much to be desired. Last year at the
championships in Manly, Rodney and another lad were put out of their boarding
house, the landlady saying the room had been booked. Other members of the team
found themselves sitting on their suitcases at Manly Baths.”
“Already the team has been split into four sections. Some have already gone,
the women leave tomorrow, four men on Sunday, and the surfers on Monday. The fact
that Rodney did not sign the agreement has no significance, it could be signed at
any time.”
Peter Robinson of Roma has been selected to replace Rogers. He will leave
Roma this morning to reach Brisbane tonight.
-------------------
C.M. Monday 4 February 1946
DENISE SWAM TO SET PLAN
Melbourne, Saturday
The Queenslander Denise Spencer swam to a set plan to win the Australian 440
yards title on Saturday. The plan was devised by Mr Joe Emerson, Secretary of the
QASA and Manager of the team.
Denise was instructed to make the pace a “cracker” for the first 220 yards
and hold the lead to the end of the race. It was through that by carrying out
these tactics, Judy Joy Davies, unaccustomed to close competition in Victoria,
might be put out of her usual method of swimming the race. The plan was a success
and Denise defeated Judy by twelve feet and equalled the Victorian record for the
distance set by Judy last year.
Denise will meet Judy again in the 110 yards title at Richmond on Tuesday
night.
Nancy Lyons, Queensland’s Olympic hope, had no difficulty in winning the 110
yards junior backstroke title and reduced her Australian record of 1 min 27 6/10
secs by 1 3/10 seconds.
ARMY SWIM TROPHIES UNDER BAN
The two Queensland champions, and a New South Wales champion, Keith Anderson
and Peter Morrison, and Bill Smith who won their open titles at the Army Swimming
Titles yesterday, will not accept the prizes they won.
They want to compete at the Sate Championships next month and were not
willing to risk their amateur status. The prizes were postal notes issued by the
army post office and available for local canteen orders only.
QASA Council Chairman, Mr Eric Bale, deemed that the notes came under the
heading “money or in kind” which is unacceptable for amateurs. He warned the
swimmers who took them they would be unable to compete in the State Championships
under ASU Rules.
-------------------C.M. Wednesday 6 February 1946
Melbourne, Tuesday
Possible Olympic and Empire Games swimming hopes will be coached to world
standard. This was decided at the Interstate Conference of the Amateur Swimming
Union of Australia today. The motion was put forward by Mr W Berge Phillips, Hon
Secretary and Treasurer of the Association.
The Conference decided the swimmers should be selected immediately. Under the
scheme the selectors and two other persons would lay down a plan of coaching,
callisthenics, and diet.
It was decided to approach the Federal Government for a Grant to finance the
scheme.
SECOND TITLE TO NANCY
Queenslander, Nancy Lyons, retained her 110 yards breaststroke title at the
Richmond Baths tonight. Her time, 1 min 31 1/5 secs, was two seconds outside her
national junior record established in Sydney last year. This was her second win in
this year’s championship. Nancy also set up a commanding lead for the successful
Queensland team in the interstate medley relay event.
Plucky Denise Spencer was beaten by a yard by Dawn West (NSW) in the women’s
open 110 yards freestyle championship. She suffered from an acute bilious attack
and had to be assisted from the baths. Barbara Lee (NSW) was third. The Victorian
champion, Judy Joy Davies, was unplaced.
Denise was subsequently replaced in the freestyle 110 yards in the Queensland
medley relay team with Sandgate junior Val Sheppard.
EARLY MEDLEY LEAD
State champion Iris Tubman swimming backstroke, began well for the Queensland
girls, and Nancy Lyons swimming breaststroke took them into a commanding lead. Val
finished the six lap course in 4 min 16 3/10 secs. Victoria was second and New
South Wales third.
New South Wales scooped the pool with five wins in the six title events and
appear to have a firm grip on the Kieran Shield.
---------------------C.M. Thursday 7 February 1946
(Picture of Nancy Lyons and Denise Spencer)
DENISE HOLDS KEY TO STATE SHIELD WIN
Destination of the Corbett Shield at the National Swimming Championships
depends on whether Queenslander, Denise Spencer, is fit to swim in the Open 880
yards at the Brunswick Baths in Melbourne this afternoon.
The Shield is awarded to the State with the most number of wins in title
events. Queensland and New South Wales have each won three titles so far.
Nancy Lyons in the 220 yards breaststroke and Denise Spencer in the 220 yards
freestyle seem certain to take two more championships for Queensland on Saturday.
The four other women’s title events left are the 110 yards breaststroke, the high
dive, springboard dive, and the 880 yards freestyle.
The only other race today will be the men’s 1650 yards freestyle. Queensland
representative will be 17 year old Irving Springfield.
NEXT TITLE FOR BRISBANE
Melbourne, Wednesday
The next Australian Swimming Championships will be held in Brisbane. This was
decided at a meeting of the Amateur Swimming Union of Australia today.
In future the championships will be conducted by the State Association for
the Union, under its control. Of the takings25% will go to the Union, 25% to the
State Association where the championships are held, and 50% will be divided among
the visiting States according to the expense incurred.
Age limits for competing in national championships will in future b reckoned
from October 1. This means that anyone under the age of sixteen on October 1 may
swim in junior events throughout the rest of the season (the end of March the next
year).
The 880 yards women’s event will be dropped from future championships, and
instead a 220 yards junior freestyle will be added to the usual women’s
championships.
No butterfly breaststroke will be permitted in the men’s 220 yards
breaststroke in future.
--------------------C.M. Monday 11 February 1946
SWIM RECORDS BY QUEENSLAND GIRLS
Denise Spencer established three, and Nancy Lyons one, of the fourteen new
Australian or Victorian record times set at the National Swimming titles in
Melbourne last week. Of the four national records established, Nancy and Denise
made two. The only swimmer in the carnival to lower more than one record was
Denise who beat two and equalled another.
Denise proved her stamina with a runaway win in the 880 yards freestyle in a
new Australian time of 12 mins 11 1/5 secs. She had previously beaten Judy Davies
Victorian 440 yards record in 5 min 48 1/5 secs, and she came out on the last day
to win the 20 yards in Victorian record time of 2 min 39 2/5 secs.
Nancy bettered her own Australian junior figures for 110 yards breaststroke
by clocking 1 min 26 2/5 secs. She failed to break her own junior women’s
backstroke time set in Sydney last year.
From an Olympic and Empire Games point of view swim critics are pleased with
Australia’s prospects especially in diving sections. Most of last week’s winners
are new swimmers emerged since the war. Exception was men’s open breaststroke win
by Geoff Johnson who is in his forties. Southern writers are naming Peter Lyons as
a probable Olympic representative.
Queensland girls were successful in winning the Corbett Shield with 6 points,
to New South Wales 3, Victoria 2, and South Australia 1.
Denise Spencer received the H.A.Bennett award for performance nearest to
world standard
--------------------C.M. Wednesday 13 February 1946
SWIM COACH SLATES TRAINING
“Miss Spencer was the only senior to do sufficient training while in
Melbourne,” said Bill Holland, coach of the Queensland swimming team, when the
men’s section of the team reached Brisbane yesterday.
Denise won three of her four races in the carnival in either Australian or
Victorian record time. Nancy Lyons, with three wins was the only other member of
the Queensland side to win an event.
The coach excepted junior women’s freestylers, Val Sheppard and Connie
McLoughlin. They had only to swim in the junior women’s 110 yards freestyle,
though Val swam in the open 220 and 440 yards events.
Most of the Queensland swimmers in the events were conditioned well enough
for ordinary amount of work, but lacked the final polish demanded by concentrated
training. Lack of experience, resulting in nervous attacks, beat a number of
Queenslanders before entering the water. Peter Robinson was overstrung before the
start of the men’s 110 yards junior freestyle and disqualified himself by breaking
twice. Junior breaststroker John Baldwin was disqualified in his event by dipping
one shoulder while looking across to Kevin Jones (NSW) who was swimming butterfly.
Val Sheppard could swim only fifth in the junior freestyle title won by
K.Heyman (NSW) in 1 min 18 1/5 secs. In relay events on subsequent nights of the
carnival, Val was twice clocked at 1 min 18 secs for 110 yards.
JUNIOR’S SHOWING
14 year old Connie McLoughlin, who had never previously swum in anything
better than club races, was the most impressive of the unplaced members of the
team. She was narrowly beaten for third place just ahead of Val in the junior
women’s freestyle.
Peter Lyons was beaten into third place by a touch by Vic Powell (Vic) in the
men’s open breaststroke. He had previously beaten Powell in the breaststroke event
at the combined University – Victoria competition two days earlier.
C.M. Thursday 14 February 1946
SWIM TITLES NEED HEATS
Because of the exceptionally heavy entries, elimination heats will be held in
a number of men’s State Swimming Championships events, the QASA decided last night
Heats of the open 100 metres freestyle and 200 metres intermediate freestyle will be held tomorrow afternoon, -finals will be swum on Saturday night:
Heats of the 200 metres open freestyle and the 1500 metres open freestyle
will be swum on Sunday afternoon – finals for the 200 will be held on Monday
night; no decision has yet been made about the final of the longer race: heats of
the 800 metres will be held on Tuesday night at the Commercial Club’s carnival and
the final on Wednesday: heats of the 400 metres will be held on Thursday night at
the Leander Club’s swim and the final the following Saturday.
Fields for all finals will be reduced to eight competitors.
------------------C.M. Monday 18 February 1946
SWIMMRS MOVE TO DEFEAT BAN
QASA proposes to hold the State Diving Championships and 1500 metres freestyle title next Sunday in conjunction with an army swim carnival. The events were
postponed yesterday when the City Council refused to let the Valley Baths be taken
over on a Sunday night except for a services carnival.
The dives will have to be contested in daylight, and the baths are booked
until next Sunday for either a title night or heats of long races to be swum off
in conjunction with weekly Club swims.
Army Services would have been willing to put on a programme yesterday if they
had been given sufficient time to make arrangements.
State junior freestyle representative, Connie McLoughlin, may swim butterfly
stroke in the women’s sub-junior breaststroke 50metres title tonight. If she does
she will be the first woman in Queensland to do so after the lifting of the
butterfly ban last year.
Diana Stanfield beat Denise Spencer in both the Open and the junior freestyle
lap dashes last year. Denise’s speed may be diminished by serious long races
recently, and she may experience her only freestyle defeat of the State carnival
when she meets Diana in the women’s 50 metres freestyle tonight.
State representative Peter Robinson who broke the junior 50 metres men’s
freestyle record in his heat, but was beaten in the final by Rodney Rogers on
Saturday, will meet Rogers in the Open 200 metres freestyle. Rogers won the State
test against open company in January. For experience, Robinson swam in the
national Open 220 and clocked 2 min 36 secs.
Peter Lyons won the State medley test last month narrowly from Bill Gillies.
Tonight he will be tested also by Ian Brown whom he beat in the 150 metres medley
last year.
------------------C.M. Tuesday 19 February 1946
GIRL SWIMMERS SET NEW RECORDS
National Title representative, Nancy Lyons, was the only winner of a women’s
title who failed to break a record at the State Championships at the Valley Baths
last night.
Denise Spencer took the Open 50 metres freestyle and the intermediate 200
metres title, Lorraine McMurray the 50 metres breaststroke, and Norma Liddle the
Under 13 50 metres freestyle championship, all inside the best time for the
events.
Nancy won the junior backstroke 50 metres easily by 3 seconds from Betty Ward
and Dorothy Davison, but she failed by 4/5 sec to beat the record held by Margaret
Davison, sister of Dorothy.
State junior freestyle winner, Connie McLoughlin, caused the surprise of the
night by her second to Lorraine McMurray in the sub-junior women’s breaststroke 50
metres. Connie used butterfly stroke for the first 30 metres at the end of which
Lorraine appeared to have an unbeatable lead. Despairing of getting anywhere near
the leader, Connie changed to normal breaststroke which is usually slower than the
butterfly. Connie swept past Dini van Messel and Pat Rigden and failed by inches
to reach Lorraine. The time set a new record by 2 seconds.
In his first competitive swim, John Bird won the 100 metres Under 15
freestyle title. He has done recent training with the Sandgate Club, but comes
from Warwick. Toowoomba boys Ray Colbert and Martin Trenerry dead-heated for
second.
JUNIOR’S SHOCK WIN
Junior, Rodney Rogers, again proved too good for the Open swimmers in the 200
metres freestyle classic. Nev Brough and Rogers made a great sprint together over
the last lap and the judges declared for Rogers by the shortest of touches.
Another upset was the defeat of the State champion, Peter Lyons, in the 300
metres medley by Bill Gillies. Ian Brown who was only fourth last night is the
only other swimmer who has beaten Lyons in the medley in Queensland since Lyons
turned senior.
Rowley Gale, beaten by Bobby Young in record time in the sub-junior
backstroke 50 metres last year, turned the tables in the junior 100 meres
backstroke last night. Young, who broke a finger a month ago, was kept out of
training for some weeks and was unable to finish strongly.
C.M. Thursday 21 February 1946
SWIM CHAMPION IS SELF TRAINED
Self trained in a waterhole outside Gladstone, Ian Waddell last night won the
Queensland metres freestyle championship at the State Swimming carnival at the
Valley Baths. Waddell, who is a former 1500 metres champion, works on a station
near Gladstone. He does his training in the station waterhole and goes into
Gladstone periodically for a try-out against good opposition. In the station pool
there are no turning boards. Last night Waddell swam under difficulties. He was in
No 1 lane and through lack of swimming in straight tracks frequently scraped the
tiled side when pulling his arm over.
State representative Alan Irving disputed the lead until600 metres had been
covered. After that the country swimmer drew away a foot or two from Imrie. Fred
Thee put in a great burst 100 metres from home but he was then too far behind
Waddell who also finished strongly.
Waddell put in a great finish to be beaten by a touch by Alan Davison in the
State 100 metres backstroke title later in the day.
CLOSE MEDLEY FINISH
Another country swimmer, Keith Anderson of Townsville, won the Open 150
metres medley in State record time. Anderson who was the pre-war medley champion
beat Peter Lyons by a yard in a terrific last lap struggle. Swimming butterfly,
Anderson was able to keep close to Lyons in the first lap. He held Lyons in the
backstroke lap and secured an early freestyle lead which he managed to hold. The
time was 4 1/2 seconds better than the State record set by Lyons last year.
DENISE’S TWO RECORDS
National champion, Denise Spencer, set two more records. She beat the race
record of 1 min 29½ secs for the women’s 100 metres freestyle by 17 ½ seconds, and
also broke her Best by Queenslander record for 200 metres freestyle, clocking 2
min 44 4/5 secs. In the latter race she was pushed along by the junior lap
champion Judy Young. State representative, Val Sheppard, finished well ahead of
another junior, Pat Vickers of Ipswich. Connie McLoughlin (jnr) and Judy Young
(jnr) were fourth and fifth. Young earlier in the night swam 32 2/5secs in the
junior women’s 50 metres championship - the best time of her career.
State junior champion, Rodney Rogers, took his third title in three nights
with a strong finish in the junior 200 metres freestyle. State representative,
Peter Robinson, was with him until the last 25 yards, but was then overwhelmed by
Rogers. Rogers time of 2 min 31½ secs broke the previous State record by 4 9/10
seconds.
Nancy backstroke champion Nancy Lyons again failed to beat State Open
champion Iris Tubman in the 100 metres backstroke title. Iris quickly opened up a
lead and Nancy’s strong finish came too late.
Bill Dowd got to the front in the last yard in the intermediate 100 metres
breaststroke by a touch from Nev Parker.
------------------C.M. Thursday 28 February 1946
QUEENSLAND DIVERS CAN’T GO OFF IN THE DEEP END
By Jim Vines (Sports Editor)
Unless something is done, and done quickly, Queensland will have to admit its
inability fully to conduct the Australian Swimming Titles here next season. It
will not be a nice admission for the third State in the Commonwealth.
Actual swimming events can be held at the Valley Baths, but there is not a
pool in Queensland in which a high dive could be conducted.
If provision for holding the dive is not made during the “off” season, then
the Queensland Amateur Swimming Association will have to ask that it be conducted
in Sydney when the teams return south.
City Council has plans for a modern Olympic Pool at Victoria Park, but with
the accent on housing, and time fleeting, I can’t see it being ready for next
season or even the season after that.
In any case, my City Hall spies tell me the first pool to be built as part of
the post-war programme will go to the south-side. But from the same sources comes
a rumour that there will be a large-scale improvement at the Valley Pool during
the winter months.
But the absence of high diving facilities is only a ripple o the surface of
swimming administration compared with the tidal wave of criticism (mostly
anonymous) over the recent dropping of Rodney Rogers from the State team.
Team Manager, Joe Emerson, says he gets at least one anonymous abusive letter
or postcard a day.
In Melbourne Mrs Mackay, chaperone of the women’s section of the team,
received this wire, “Kindly convey to Emerson our congratulations for presenting
the Australian Junior Title to New South Wales. All at the Valley pool.”
The telegram was unsigned, but bore a Woolloongabba postmark.
C.M. Thursday 26 September 1946
PUBLIC SWIMMING PLAN WANTED HERE
Queensland has been left out of the calculations for the training of a
national swimming team to go to the next Olympic Games. Queenslanders Peter Lyons,
Nancy Lyons, and Denise Spencer, were selected by the Australian Swimming Union
last December as members of an Olympic training squad of 34 members. Nothing has
been done about setting them on their training schedules.
First official notification came to them in a circular letter from A.S.U.
Secretary, Mr W Berge Phillips. It said, “You should now be in the midst of your
callisthenics exercises which form the pre-water conditioning period conducted by
your State Associations, covering the period from October 1 to February 1. The
Olympic Games Preparation Committee will be receiving from time to time from your
State Association reports of your progress.”
He enclosed letters for a season’s preparation as employed by the Spit Club in
Sydney, and lists of time standards set out by the preparation Committee as goals
for swimmers.
INSTRUCTONS WANTED
Queensland Association Secretary (Mr J.Emerson) said that no instructions had
been sent to the QASA by the ASU to be passed on to the three swimmers. “QASA
training committee considered it would not be justified to bring in a training
plan for Queensland swimmers on its own accord,” he said.
“I’ve seen the outlines of the best southern long range planning schemes, and I
do not think they will succeed. Swimmers do not have time to develop the sport on
their own,” added Mr Emerson. “In America, University students provide the main
body of record breakers in all sports. They have opportunities to specialise in
their own line and are rigidly supervised throughout their training periods.”
“In Australian Universities and Schools, students are expected to play a good
hand at other sports also, according to the season,” he said.
The two Lyons and Denise Spencer are trying to follow, on their own initiative,
to work with the Spit chart, but they have along way to make up.
Peter Lyons is a member of the Valley Club training squad which began last month
with a schedule of pre-water training exercises similar to that which is being
used for the 99 members of the New South Wales training squad.
The exercises are naturally passed on to sister, Nancy. Denise, as a boarder at
school, will have fewer opportunities for unauthorised pre-water training.
-------------------C.M. Tuesday 22 October 1946
AGAINST VISIT BY SWIM STARS
The special Executive meeting of the QASA decided last night not to agree to
the proposed visit by the American, French, and Hawaiian, swimming stars this
season. The cost of the visit was claimed to be too prohibitive.
The move had been sponsored by the Australian Swimming Union. New South Wales
and South Australia had favoured bringing the internationals to Australia, and
Victoria previously rejected the proposal.
Len Stanton was appointed sole adviser/director of a colour film on speed
swimming to be made by the Association in collaboration with Harry Giese, Director
of Physical Education. The “stars” will be Bill Fleming (freestyle), Nancy Lyons
(breaststroke), and Iris Tubman (backstroke). Shooting will begin next month.
---------------------
C.M. Thursday 31 October 1946
NO CHANGE IN SWIM VENUE
Rumours that the National Swimming Championships next year would be taken away
from Queensland were denied yesterday by the QASA Secretary, Mr J.S.Emerson.
“The Australian swimming, and three metre diving, championships will be held at
the Valley Baths in the first week of February,” he said.
“Mail vote amongst the States will not be taken on the venue for the high
tower dive which cannot be held at the Valley Baths because of the shallowness of
the water,” he said.
He though they probably would be held in Sydney immediately after the National
carnival in Brisbane.
--------------------C.M. Thursday 7 November 1946
Q.A.S.A’S NEW CHAIRMAN
Mr J.S.Emerson, Secretary of the Queensland Amateur Swimming Association for
four years has been elected Chairman of Council. He succeeds Mr E.A.Bale, a
Brisbane solicitor. Mr Bale took on the job as Chairman during the war, but
pressure of business has forced his resignation.
Mr Emerson said yesterday that the State Championships would be held in
Brisbane January 11 to 18 to enable country swimmers to be here for the National
Titles which are expected to begin at the valley Baths on February 1.
Other Officers elected at the Council meeting were – Hon Secretary, Mr
N.Robinson; Hon Treasurer, Mr R.S.Beer; Members of Executive Committee, Messrs
Lester (City Pastime), R.Franzen (Leander), Stewart (Maryborough), Nankavill
(Ipswich), Connell (Western Districts); Timekeeper, N.Walch; Starter, W.Morrall
(Mr R.Hodge who has acted as Starter for nearly thirty years, resigned because of
ill health); Sub-committees appointed were – Diving, Mrs E.Gough, Messrs
E.S.Collin,
G.D.Johnston,
W.Nolan,
W.Morrall; Baths,
Messrs
G.D.Johnston,
H.Malyon, S.Connell, L.Johnston, J.Spiro.
C.M. Saturday 9 November
---------------------1946
Queensland is in danger of losing the Australian swimming titles which were to
be held in Brisbane next year. A mail vote is now being taken of five of the
States and the President (Mr Horrie Bennett) and Secretary (Mr W.Berge Phillips)
of the Australian Swimming Union to determine if they are in favour of the swims
being held here as originally arranged.
The President, Secretary, and the five States (Qld, NSW, Vic, SA, and WA) are
entitled to one vote each.
POOL TOO SHORT
Mr Berge Phillips said in a telephone call from Sydney tonight that the mail
vote was being taken because the Valley Pool was eleven inches short of the
required distance, and there were no high diving facilities. The pool was 50
metres long whereas it should be 55 yards to meet the requirements. The mail vote
will close on November 14.
Mr Phillips said that though New South Wales was in favour of holding the
national titles in Brisbane, he thought the mail vote would not favour the
proposal. He added,” Some time ago the ASU wrote to the Brisbane City Council
urging that it lengthen the Valley Baths so that national championships could be
held there. A reply was received from the Council stating that because of a
shortage of building materials this could not be done.”
Chairman of the Queensland Amateur Swimming Association (Mr J.S.Emerson) said
yesterday that the decision of the City Council not to lengthen the Valley Baths
was regretted. It looked as if Queensland could lose the national titles.
C.M. Thursday 14 November 1946
QUEENSLAND LOSE SWIM TITLES
Sydney, Wednesday
The Australian Amateur Swimming Championships are to be held in Adelaide this
year, not in Brisbane as formerly arranged. The championships were set down for
Brisbane on February 1, but the Australian Amateur Swimming Union has decided that
the facilities available in Brisbane do not come up to the required standard, as a
55 yards pool was required, not a 50 metre pool, also there was no standard high
diving tower.
---------------------C.M. Thursday 5 December 1946
NEV TAKES SWIM DOUBLE
Nev Brough (City Pastime) won the two main individual events, the 100 and 200
metres freestyle, at the interclub swim at the Valley Baths last night.
Eagers No 1 team won the 12th annual mercantile relay competition for the
Elphingstone Shield. The places were – Eagers No I 1, Hancock & Gore No 1 2,
Brisbane City Council 3, Queensland Primary Producers 4.
--------------------C.M. Friday 13 December 1946
STATE SWIMMERS TRAINING HARD
Leading Queensland swimmers are in solid training
for the State Swimming
Championships to be held at the Valley Baths on January11, 14, 16, and 18.
National champions, Nancy Lyons and Denise Spencer are in great form at
present. On Wednesday night Nancy swam the 200 metres breaststroke in 3 mins 14
secs, only slightly worse than her best. She trains at the baths twice daily.
Denise has been home in Roma since last month, and is practising in the pool
there.
Nev Brough, City Pastime Club, is swimming regularly and will be favourite for
the Open events.
IN SYDNEY
State junior champion, Rodney Rogers, ventured to Sydney last Saturday to try
to gain special training under coach Harry Hay at the Manly Pool.
Mr J.S.Emerson, Chairman of the QASA, is taking a team of swimmers to Roma for
a carnival on December 31. The team will be a powerful one, chosen from QASA and
QLASA members.
-----------------C.M. Tuesday 7 January 1947
SELECTORS FOR SWIM TEAM
W.Holland, W.Lester, and N.G.Robinson, have been appointed selectors of the
swimming team to compete in the Australian Championships in Adelaide starting on
February 1.
The appointments were made by the Council of the Queensland Amateur Swimming
Association last night. The Queensland team will be chosen at the conclusion of
the State Championships on January 18.
New Zealand backstroke champion, Ngaire Lane, will compete in the State
Championships. Her best time for the 100 metres backstroke is 1 min 20 secs. This
is nearly three seconds faster than the best time of Iris Tubman, Queensland’s
outstanding backstroke swimmer.
At the opening carnival at the Valley Baths on Saturday afternoon, both dives
will be decided, also the 1500 metres freestyle.
Heats of the following events
will be held – 50 metres men’s junior freestyle, 100 metres men’s freestyle, 100
metres men’s backstroke, and 100 metres men’s breaststroke.
C.M. Thursday 9 January 1947
(Picture – Diana Stanfield, Judy Young, Nancy Lyons)
TRAVELS 80 MILES TO SWIM
Keith Anderson, State 150 metres medley champion drives 80 miles every week
from Townsville to Ayr for a Club swim and training because there are no baths in
Townsville.
He will defend his title in the State Championships which begin at the Valley
Baths on Saturday. Anderson is one of the country swimmers among the 960 entrants
who will come from as far north as Cairns, and as far west as Roma.
SURFERS TO COMPETE
Nev Brough (City Pastime) and Steve Wilkes (Wombye) who are two representatives
in the eastern states surf team which will tour to Western Australia this month
will also be seen at the carnival.
-------------------C.M. Saturday 11 January 1947
STRONG SWIM TITLE BID
MAXWELL WILL TEST BROUGH
The battle between “veteran” Nev Brough and 16 year old newcomer Peter Maxwell
should be the highlight of the “blue riband” of Queensland swimming, the Open 100
metres freestyle title at the State Swimming Championships at the Valley Baths
tomorrow night.
------------------C.M. Monday 13 January 1947
WOMEN ARE SWIM STARS
Highlight f the swimming championships at the Valley Baths tomorrow night will
be the women’s Open 50 metres freestyle. National champion Denise Spencer and New
Zealand title-holder, Ngaire Lane, Diana Stanfield, Judy Young, Val Sheppard, and
Thelma Wehl, are all in the picture for this event.
SPARKLING SWIM
Nancy Lyons, national women’s breaststroke champion swam the fastest 200 metres
in women’s breaststroke by an Australian in Australia on Saturday night when she
recorded 3 mins 8 secs. The previous best time was 3 mins 8 2/5 secs set by
Australian champion Claire Dennis at the Domain Baths in 1932. Nancy has thus
proved herself one of the greatest women swimmers in Australian swimming history.
When she won on Saturday she swam unpaced for the last two laps winning by half
the length of the pool.
C.M. Tuesday 14 January 1947
SISTER WAS HOLDER OF STATE TITLE
Doreen Collings, likely winner of tonight’s women’s backstroke title at the
Valley Baths, is a sister of Marie Collings, women’s long distance champion before
Denise Spencer.
-------------------C.M. Wednesday 15 January 1947
GIRL SWIMMER BREAKS TWO RECORDS AND EQUALS ONE
Denise Spencer, national women’s freestyle champion, broke one State women’s
record and equalled another two at the Valley Baths tonight.
Six records were bettered or equalled in the first eight title events.
Denise cut 3.4 seconds off her own record in winning the women’s intermediate
200 metres freestyle. Her time was 2 mins 41.4 secs. Her 31.4 seconds in the Open
lap equalled the State time, and also lowered the intermediate record by 5
seconds. The time however was 2 seconds outside her best made at the national
title in Melbourne last year.
Diana Stanfield holder of the State 50 metres freestyle record paced Denise for
the first half of the Open lap title. She got on the ropes and finished weakly
letting pair Judy Young and New Zealander Ngaire Lane fill the places.
MAXWELL’S TRIUMPH
Peter Maxwell, 16 year old freestyle hope, took his first Open title when he
outstayed the older contenders in the Open 200 metres freestyle. By later winning
the Under 17 100 metres freestyle in record time, Maxwell brought his record in
State championships to three wins and a second in four starts. He travels 250
miles a week from Ipswich to the Valley Baths to train under former national
champion Bill Fleming, whose late distance mantle he seems certain to assume.
Maxwell led practically all the way. He swam the first 100 in 67 seconds. With
50 metres to go the field was closing in on him but he went away in the run home.
With the exception of the 17 year old Irving Springfield, Maxwell was four years
younger than any other swimmer in the field.
Best time for the night was Don Michael’s clipping of 8 seconds off the men’s
junior backstroke time. He won by ten yards in 76.8 seconds. This is 1.2 seconds
faster than the Open title time on Saturday night and eclipses the Victorian Open
time. Best backstroke swum by a Queenslander was 75 seconds swum by Tom Boast.
TWO TITLES, TWO RECORDS
George Newton who was uncertain to compete at the championships because of an
infected ear last week, won his second title and set his second record by taking
the men’s sub-junior 100 freestyle in 71.4 seconds.
Bill Gillies, unable to get the “feel” of the fresh water after a fortnight in
the surf, trained himself into superb condition last week. To show his fitness he
ran away with the men’s 300 metres medley, beating former champion Keith Anderson
and Peter Lyons who had tired each other in the first 100 metres breaststroke.
Jack Bell finished on to run second ahead of them.
-------------------
C.M. Saturday 18 January 1947
TWO SWIM RECORDS SHATTERED
SPENCER – LANE SET NEW STATE FIGURES
Two state records were shattered at the Valley Baths last night by the New
Zealand backstroke champion, Ngaire Lane and Queensland freestyler Denise Spencer.
Ngaire took 2.1 seconds off the Queensland women’s 100 metres backstroke by
swimming 80.9 seconds. Denise broke the State 200 metres freestyle record by 2.6
seconds in the women’s Open.
Ngaire was cheered on by a squad of New Zealand Air Force men as Queensland
girl Nancy Lyons closed on her in the last lap. Nancy was beaten by more than two
yards when she swam the best 100 metres by a Queensland girl in 83.5 seconds.
Nancy’s time was 8.1 seconds better than her time in winning the national junior
women’s 110 yards title last year. She dropped two yards behind the New Zealand
girl in the first twenty five yards, but over the last fifteen she seemed to be
making little impression though she appeared to be stroking more strongly.
BEAT BEST 200m TIME
Denise clocked 2 min 28.8 secs, her best 200 metres time. Juniors Judy Young
and Connie McLoughlin helped to make a solid pace over the first 75, but Denise
led all the way. Connie collapsed at 130 metres but worked her way to the side of
the baths where she “blacked out”. She was assisted from the water by friends and
officials.
Val Sheppard after her second to Diana, third in the backstroke race, took the
Under 17 women’s 100 metres freestyle.
Sheila Wehl, beaten by Norma Liddle in the Under 13 last year, reversed the
placings in the women’s Under 14 50 metres freestyle. She later beat Judy Young in
the women’s junior 50 metres freestyle.
SWAM BUTTERFLY
Keith Anderson retained his 150 metres medley title cutting 1.4 seconds off
last year’s record. Anderson and Ian Waddell, who was second, both swam butterfly
on the breaststroke leg, but Lyons, swimming orthodox breaststroke touched ahead
of them in the first lap.
Don Hogan outstayed his rivals the junior men’s freestyle in the 200 metres.
Cairns boy, Norm James was the only other competitor to finish with dash.
Peter Maxwell, 100 metres champion, ran away with the intermediate 400 metres
freestyle and cut 6 seconds off the previous best time.
New junior backstroke champion, Don Michael, timed at 79.9 seconds, touched off
former Olympian Tom Boast (80 seconds) in the first round of the Open medley
relay.
Peter Lyons swam better than his State record of 81.5 seconds.
STATE COUNTRY SWIMMING TITLES
TOP SWIM BY TOM McNAMARA
STATE CHAMPION DOWN
From our special representative, Ipswich, Friday
State champion Peter Maxwell was beat6en by club mate Tom McNamara in the men’s
100 metres freestyle Country Championships at Ipswich last night. 20 year old
McNamara led all the way and won in 65 seconds, a country record. McNamara is a
navy man.
McNamara’s bona fides were checked by the QASA officials as he had swum several
times with the Valley Club wile in Brisbane. McNamara has been Club champion for
several years managing to get leave to swim in titles. He had entered for the
State Championships but withdrew thinking he was not good enough. He was entered
for tonight’s title by his Club and he decided to swim. McNamara took State junior
titles some years ago. He arrived on leave in Ipswich on Monday and his only
training has been in the past four days.
Denise Spencer swam away with the Country women’s Open 50 metres freestyle
title in a time 1.6 seconds faster than her swim last year.
The junior men’s 50 metres freestyle went to John Bird with Mat Trenerry and
Norm James in the places, touches separating the three of them.
(Results of State Championship swims are recorded in the Annual Report)
--------------------C.M. Monday 20 January 1947
STATE SELECTS NINE SWIMMERS FOR ADELAIDE
Nine Queensland swimmers, five men and four women, have been chosen to
represent Queensland at the Australian Swimming Championships in Adelaide from
February 1 to 8.
State selectors (N.Robinson, W.Holland, W.Lester) yesterday chose the
following:Men P.Maxwell (Ipswich), D.Michael and R.Hogan (Sandgate), J.Boast (Valley)
J.Kirkman (Leander).
Women Denise Spencer (Roma), Nancy Lyons and Judy Young (Valley), Val
Sheppard (Sandgate).
Current Chairman of the QASA, Mr Joe Emerson, will manage the team, coach will
be Neil Horn of the Leander Club, and Mrs Bowman (Sandgate) will travel as
Chaperone.
It is one of the strongest teams to represent the State. All the chosen
swimmers have shown outstanding form at the State Championships which concluded
last Saturday.
--------------------C.M. Thursday 23 January 1947
STATE TEAM FOR WATER POLO
Queensland will send a water polo team to the Australian Water Polo
Championships to be held next month. The carnival will start on February 22 and
the Queensland side will leave on February 19.
The Queensland team will meet the Combined Australian Universities at the
University swimming carnival at the Valley Baths tonight.
The Queensland team is – W.McCane (Valley), W.Smith (Taxation), G.Colbourne
(Valley), E.Bonis (Captain, City Pastime), T.Long (Valley), R.Miller (Leander),
and J.Smith (City Pastime). Reserves are W.Holland (Leander) and W.Shanahan (City
Pastime).
In the swimming section of tonight’s carnival Denise Spencer, Nancy Lyons, Val
Sheppard, Judy Young, Peter Maxwell, and D.Michael, members of the State team,
will compete against the University champions.
-------------------C.M. Saturday 25 January 1947
UNIVERSITIES CARNIVAL
Combined Universities swimmers swam faster times than the Queensland
Championships at the carnival last night. The only exception was the 300 metres
medley swimmer W.Gillies (Uni) who also took the State 300 metres medley. He was
5.8 seconds slower last night.
C.M. Friday 31 January 1947
SWIMMERS CONFIDENT OF VICTORY
By Jim Vines, Adelaide, Thursday
“Queensland girl swimmers did not bring the Corbett Shield won at last year’s
National Title carnival to Adelaide with them. They are confident it will stay in
the State,” team Manager, Mr Joe Emerson, said today. “It is locked in my safe in
Brisbane. I don’t think we will have to pack it up. Denise Spencer and Nancy Lyons
should win four titles, and Queensland girls should win the relay.
--------------------
C.M. Saturday 12 February 1947
RECORDS IN TITLE SWIMS
Adelaide, Friday
New South Wales won all but one event in the first elimination heats of the
1947 National Swimming Championships in Adelaide this afternoon.
16 year old Victorian, John Marshall, had a great battle with F.O’Neill (NSW)
in the first heat of the men’s 220 yards freestyle clocking 2:26 2/5, breaking the
South Australian State record by 13 1/5 seconds.
C.M. Monday 3 February 1947
N.S.W. LEADS FOR SWIM SHIELD
Adelaide, Sunday
New South Wales with five first placings out of seven events established a firm
grip on the Kieran Shield for men and the Corbett Shield for women. There were
some brilliant individual performances and Australian and South Australian records
went by the board.
Denise Spencer (Qld) and Judy Joy Davies (Vic) were well ahead pof the field
and fought out the finish n the 440 yards freestyle – a repetition of the 1946
meeting. They were together at 55 yards, but after 110 yards Denise took the lead
and held it throughout. The race was swum in 5 mins 47 secs. This is a record for
the event though 3/5 second slower than the best time for the distance established
by Dorothy Green in 1939.
-----------------C.M. Tuesday 4 February 1947
(Picture of Judy Joy Davies and Nancy Lyons)
-----------------C.M. Wednesday 5 February 1947
DENISE BEATEN IN SWIM TITLE
Adelaide, Tuesday
Denise Spencer was drawn in the worst lane and was beaten by a touch by Judy
Joy Davies in the 110 yards freestyle at the City Baths at the Australian Swimming
Championships carnival tonight.
The girls swam stroke for stroke from the dive, but Denise in the outside lane
was confused by the blinding underwater lights on the edge of the pool, over the
final 55 yards. Denise was beaten by Davies by a touch in this event last season.
Judy’s time was 1 min 11 9/10 secs and Denise was 1/10 sec slower.
Earlier in the night Davies had beaten Nancy Lyons into second place in the 110
yards backstroke by a yard and a half with Gwen Millard (NSW) a touch away third.
Judy’s time was 1 min 21 ½ secs, nearly three seconds better than the time for
last year, but was well outside Miller’s national record of 1min 16 4/5 secs.
Despite the record by Nancy Lyons swimming breaststroke, Queensland was beaten
into third place in the 300 yards medley teams championship. Queensland lost too
much ground in the backstroke section.
-----------------C.M. Saturday 8 February 1947
SWIM SHIELD MAY BE LOST
Queensland girls will have to perform a super effort in all the remaining
events at the National Swimming Championships tonight if they are to retain the
interstate Corbett Shield. Of the eight events already decided, New South Wales
and Victoria have each won three, with Queensland and South Australia one each.
----------------C.M. Monday 10 February 1947
MARSHALL’S FOURTH SWIMMING TITLE
Adelaide, Sunday
John Marshall (Vic) won his fourth national title, the 880 yards men’s
freestyle in a record time for the event. He won the Bennett Trophy for the male
swimmer nearest to world standard.
Denise Spencer (Qld) again defeated Judy Joy Davies (Vic) in the women’s 220
yards freestyle and claimed the women’s award for nearest to world class, a
distinction she had earned for the second successive year
(Results recorded in the Annual Report)
C.M.
Tuesday 11 February 1947
WATER [POLO FINALS NEXT MONDAY
Brisbane interclub water polo championship final will be played at the Valley
Baths next Monday night. Semi-finals will also be played on the same night. A
swimming programme of eighteen events will be run in between.
Semi-finalists are City Pastime (who are unbeaten), Leander, University, and
Valley No 1 team, who have each been beaten once.
Swimming events will feature all strokes in all grades for men and women.
The Queensland Amateur Swimming Association has allowed a metropolitan
interclub championship to be competed for.
A State water polo team will not go to Melbourne for the National Titles on
February 22 because of lack of finance.
The Queensland Water Polo Association
which is affiliated with the QASA applied for monetary assistance, but the QASA
said it could not offer any assistance.
State Secretary, “Chipsey”, would maybe sent as Queensland delegate to the
carnival to watch southern methods.
TOO MUCH LEISURE IN SWIM TRIP
“Too much sightseeing was included in the training itinerary,” members of the
State swimming team said when they arrived back in Brisbane yesterday from the
National Championships in Adelaide.
The girls said they were billeted six miles out of town. After morning training
the team usually went for a walk to see Adelaide in the afternoon. Sometimes the
team trained in the afternoon also, the heat one day reaching 105 degrees.
Judy Young, who swam on the two Saturdays of the carnival, said she was ill
from the heat on the intervening Wednesday and Thursday.
Nancy Lyons said her daily programme seemed heavy, and she did not eat anything
like her usual breakfast.
QUEENSLAND UNLUCKY
Manager of the team, Mr Joe Emerson, said the Queenslanders were again not
really trained when compared with southern States at their peak. He said
Queensland was unlucky not to win two more titles. Denise Spencer told him she had
been temporarily blinded by the dazzling underwater lights along the edge of the
pool in the women’s 110 yards freestyle as she swam in the outside lane. She was
beaten by a touch.
Men’s junior backstroker, Don Michael, swam his best time in his backstroke
heat. He missed the turn in the final to run second. The winner Frank Stevens
(NSW) just beat Michael’s heat time.
----------------C .M. Saturday 15 February 1947
(Picture of Denise Spencer with career account)
SEEKS TALKS ON SWIM DIFFERENCES
The Council meeting of the Queensland Ladies Amateur Swimming Association
decided last night to seek a conference with the Queensland Amateur Swimming
Association to settle differences.
The matters they want to discuss are – Action of the QASA in disregarding the
QLASA in the nomination of Mrs Bowman as chaperone of the women’s team which
visited Adelaide for the National Titles in February, and the sending of a bill to
the QLASA for £164/17/6 for the expenses before sharing the profits of the 1946
National Championships in Sydney and the State and Country carnivals in January.
Mrs Bowman of the Sandgate Club was selected by the QASA as chaperone.
A motion was carried that the QASA furnish a statement of these accounts which
they shared equally with the QLASA before the account was paid.
The Secretary of the QLASA, Mrs Mackay, said after the meeting that the QASA
had received £84 as its share of the 1946 National Championships in Melbourne. As
the women members of that team paid their own expenses, the QLASA was entitled to
a share of the profits. They considered they were also entitled to a share of the
profits from the State carnival held in January.
LYONS FIRST WIN WITH “BUTTERFLY”
Queensland breaststroke champion Peer Lyons, swimming the butterfly stroke for
the first time, won the 50 metres breaststroke event in 33 1/5 seconds at the GPS
Old Boys swimming carnival at the Valley Baths last night.
------------------C.M. Tuesday 18 February 1947
WATER POLO TO PASTIMES
Exploiting a trick shot that he had learnt during his surf tour to Western
Australia last month, Nev Brough scored the winning goal for City Pastime to take
the interclub water polo championship at the Valley Baths last night.
In a flurry near the opposition goal, Brough pushed the ball down with his left
hand and as it popped up he knocked it past the goalkeeper.
City Pastime beat Valley 3-2 in the final, but were nearly put out of the
competition when the young University team played them to a 2-2 draw in a semifinal earlier in the night. In the additional time needed it looked like the
stamina of the University side would pull them through, but the more experienced
City Pastime men scored two snap goals to take their score to 4.
City Pastime goalie, Bill Hookway, stood a terrific gruelling in the latter
half of the final also.
Valley attacked with long passes and were more in City Pastime half than on the
defence.
State junior backstroke representative, Don Michael, cleared away with the 50
metres junior backstroke race in the swimming section of the programme. His time
was 35 seconds, 1 second better than the State record, but he was not timed by
official watches.
------------------C.M. Thursday 27 February 1947
SWIM CONVERTS TO “BUTTERFLY” LIKELY
By J.D. (Len) Stanton
The appearance of American champion Ralph Wright at Saturday night’s swimming
carnival at the Valley Baths is likely to develop a “crop of butter-fly” swimmers
in Queensland.
Swimming butterfly in Club events, State champions Jack Boast and Peter Lyons
have recorded faster times. Boast should be much improved after Wright’s visit to
Brisbane.
Latest convert to the butterfly is State freestyle champion Frank O’Neill who
at Dubbo recently registered 1 min 18 1/5 secs for 110 yards at the new
breaststroke style. O’Neill intended to start in the breaststroke champion- ships
next season.
Most startling result, however, came from the juniors. The first two places in
the National Title events went to lads whose acquaintance with butterfly had been
made only a few weeks.
John Davies, Open national champion O’Neill and Olympic prospect also had
advice from the American with a view to changing over for next year’s big events.
NANCY HOLDS OUT
The outstanding exception to the general conversion is Nancy Lyons who appears
quite definite in her intention to remain an orthodox swimmer.
The Queenslander may gain selection at either style, but to me her strength and
style appear most suitable for speedy and successful adaptation to “butterfly”.
Australians learnt nothing from the success of the butterfly swimmers at the
Sydney Empire Games in 1938, nor from the subsequent tour of the States by the
brilliant Walter Spence.
Officialdom has accepted butterfly as being within the definition of
breaststroke providing it is swum for the full course. They may find our best
swimmers registering times near Olympic standards.
Butterfly breaststroke was first used by the famous world champion Erich
Radamacher in 1933 and was seriously introduced into competition by American
George Kaplan. American swimmers quickly adopted the style and approached the
Berlin Olympic Games confident of victory over the orthodox stylists.
TECHNIQUE AT FAULT
The plans failed, however, and the first three places in the championship went
to two Japanese and a German who shunned the new method. The only competitor at
the Games to employ butterfly for the full course was Maril Lenk of Brazil who
finished in seventh place in a semi-final.
In 1939, however, the Brazilian girl set a new world’s time of 2 mins 56 3/5
secs. Her persistent butterfly stroking was successful.
Many reasons have been given for the 1936 failure, but generally it is regarded
as one of faulty technique.
---------------------C.M. Saturday 1 March 1947
WRIGHT, TAOILI SWIM TONIGHT
Ralph Wright and Fred Taoili, American swimming stars, arrived in Brisbane last
night and later attended the Catholic girls swimming carnival at the Valley Baths.
The Americans were amused at the wild excitement prevailing at the baths and they
said they felt like joining in the chant of the war-cries.
Wright and Taoili made a quick visit to Brisbane to appear at the Valley Baths
tonight. They will return to Sydney by air tomorrow morning and will be leaving
shortly for the U.S.A.
Wright is a polished exponent of the butterfly style of breaststroke while
Taoili specialises in long distance freestyle events. They will both race against
Queensland champions.
As the seating space is all under cover, the carnival will be held tonight
whatever weather conditions prevail.
---------------------
C.M. Tuesday 4 March 1947
NANCY LYONS OUR ONLY OLYMPIC HOPE
Queenslander Nancy Lyons is the only Australian swimmer who has a chance of
winning at the Olympic Games next year in the opinion of the U.S swim star Frank
Taoili. Miss Lyons holds the Australian women’s breaststroke title.
Taoili doesn’t think any of the Australian men swimmers are capable of winning
an Olympic event, although John Marshall, the 16 year old Victorian who won the
Australian 220,440, 880, and 1650 yards freestyle titles last month, “might get a
place”. “That is of course provided he improves between now and next year,” Taoili
said.
NOT ENOUGH TRAINING
Taoili believes Australian swimmers do not train hard enough or long enough. He
himself swims nearly two miles every day improving his style and developing
stroking and kicking power. He gives up swimming altogether and “rests” for two
months every year. The American does not agree with some swimming authorities who
think that Australian swimmers should be sent on an overseas tour for experience
for Olympic swimming.
Courier Mail Wednesday 24 September 1947
SWIMMING STAR FOR SYDNEY
National swimming champion, Denise Spencer, finished her schooling at St
Margaret's College last week, and will leave for Sydney in early October to undergo
special training under Sydney University coaches, Professor Cotton and Forbes
Carlisle.
Eighteen year old Denise has decided to give up everything for swim training this
season in order to make the 1948 Olympic swimming team.
Denise's freestyle successes in the National Championships in 1946 and 1947 put her
among the top rank of Australian women swimmers. She is a member of the Australian
Swimming Union's panel of swimmers chosen to undergo special training for the Games.
Other Queensland members of the special squad are national breaststroke champion,
Nancy Lyons, and junior champions Thelma Wehl and Don Michael.
JUNIOR PROSPECT
Sixteen year old Don Michael, who showed tremendous improvement in backstroke
swimming last season, will train under Bill Fleming this season.
Breaststroke idol, Nancy Lyons, has already started training at the Valley Baths.
Chairman of the Q.A.S.A, Mr J.S.Emerson, said yesterday that he was still waiting
on a reply to a suggestion forwarded to England swimming authorities that butterfly
and breaststroke be made separate events.
Nancy has kept to orthodox breaststroke in all her wins, and is waiting the
decision sought by the Q.A.S.A before she considers changing to butterfly.
The Annual Meeting of the Queensland Amateur Swimming Association will be held at
the Builders Exchange on October 6.
----------------------C.M. Tuesday 30 September 1947
HOPES FOR SWIM STAR
Sydney, Monday
Australian Swimming Union Officials expect big improvement by young Queenslander,
Denise Spencer, who is expected to be in Sydney next week to begin specialised
training. According to recent information, Denise is in the world's first ten
freestyle champions.
The Secretary of the Australian Swimming Union, Mr W.B.Phillips, thinks Miss
Spencer may reduce her time by more than 20 seconds, and a time of 5.20 for 440
yards would bring her within the best five in the world.
The Union's Olympic team will be chosen after the Australian Championships next
year.
Another Queenslander, Nancy Lyons, Australian women's breaststroke champion, is
expected in Sydney in November. She is the only woman breaststroke swimmer in
Australia invited to join the Olympic panel to undertake special off-season
training. She will change from the orthodox style to the "butterfly" method.
-------------------C.M. Tuesday 7 October 1947
SWIMMERS TRAIN IN WATERHOLE
"Because of poor Brisbane facilities, some swimmers last season trained in a
Cannon Hill waterhole," Mr J.S.Emerson, Chairman, said at the Q.A.S.A Annual Meeting
last night. He said the Association must stimulate public opinion in favour of
providing proper accommodation and facilities.
Between 1942 and 1947,92 junior records had been established, but the senior men
swimmers, with one exception, had failed to gain a place in the last two Australian
carnivals.
School boys and girls, in some cases used school baths for training, and the
public baths after school hours. Senior swimmers had to use the baths after working
hours when satisfactory training was impossible.
In recognition of meritorious service, Mr Emerson was presented with a gold wrist
watch and Mrs Emerson with a tea set.
Treasurer, Mr Reg Beer, was presented with a pair of binoculars.
Officials elected were - Patron, Sir John Lavarack; Vice Patron, Alderman
J.B.Chandler;
President,
Mr
.S.Carter;
Vice
Presidents,
Messrs
H.Malyon,
J.R.Merrill,
H.A.Whitehouse,
R.H.Henderson,
W.S.Johnston;
Handicapper,
Mr
J.Montgomery; Auditors, M.Lyons and T.P.Doig; Solicitors, A.W.Bale and Sons.
SWIMMING POOLS - BUT WHERE?
Aldermen yesterday agreed on the need for more swimming pools but disagreed about
the size and locations.
In a long City Council debate, Alderman Bottomley (C.M.O) proposed a modern full
size Olympic pool for South Brisbane. He suggested that the Brisbane Cricket Ground
would make an excellent site.
Ald Rasey (Lab) urged the Council to go ahead with plans and specifications.
The Transport Committee Chairman (Ald Roberts) said that he preferred a number of
smaller pools in more areas. "An Olympic pool would be of national interest in
training swimmers, and I think the State and Federal governments should assist with
finance for such a project," he added.
PLAN FOR SCHOOLS
Ald Gray (Lab) said that the State government had built pools in many State
Schools, and had not asked for Council subsidy.
The Works Committee Chairman (Ald Lanham) said that the government expected the
schools committees to raise money for school baths and then subsidise them. He
suggested that the government should be requested to put baths in every school of
decent size, and that the public should have them at weekends and at night.
Ald Scott-Mallon (C.M.O) said that ten small baths at £10,000 each could be built
for the cost of a modern Olympic pool.
Ald Griffiths (C.M.O) said the 1,700 children at the Kelvin Grove school had no
baths.
Council passed a vote of £1,700 for swimming baths and enclosures.
The Council has already approved the replacement of shark proof netting at the
Shorncliffe bathing enclosure.
---------------------C.M. Saturday 11 October 1947
SWIMMING
At the first Council meeting of the Queensland Ladies Amateur Swimming
Association held last night, Mrs E.Gough was elected Secretary and Miss P.Glanville
as Treasurer.
Selectors for the 1947-48 season are Mrs K.D.Mackay, Miss L.Montgomery, and Mrs
E.Gough.
---------------
C.M. Tuesday 14 October 1947
SWIM TITLES FOR FEBRUARY 20
The Queensland swimming championships this season will be held after the
Australian Titles in February. The State carnivals will be from February 20 to 27.
Title nights will be Friday, Monday, Wednesday and Friday. The Australian Titles
will be held February 7-14.
Test races for representation at the Australian Titles in Sydney will be held in
January.
Q.A.S.A Council last night also allotted the Queensland Country Titles to
Ipswich. They will be contested on a night during carnival week.
Men's titles added to the State championship list were - Junior 400 metres
Freestyle, Sub-junior 150 metres Medley Relay, and Open 400 (4x100) metres orthodox
Breaststroke Relay.
The first Open carnivals this season will be the Q.A.S.A meeting on November 21,
and the Valley Mercantile night on December 3.
New season's Q.A.S.A officials elected were - Chairman, Mr J.Emerson; Secretary,
Mr W.Holland; Treasurer, Mr R.Beer; Registrar, Mr J.Montgomery; Starter, Mr
R.Burrell; Timekeeper, Mr F.Pols; Costume Steward, Mr H.Norris; Executive, Messrs
S.Connell, W.Lester, J.Stewart, G.Nankavill, R.Burrell.
Diving Sub-committee, G.Johnston, S.Connell, W.Nolan, W.Morrall, Mrs E.Gough.
Baths Committee, H.Fitzgerald, H.Malyon, R.Burrell, A.Miller, R.Davies.
Coaching and Education Committee, R.Henderson, W.Daley, J.Robertson, M.Jacklin,
Mrs E.Gough.
---------------------C.M Saturday 18 October 1947
SWIMMING
Mrs Ester Gough, the new Secretary of the Queensland Ladies Amateur Swimming
Association, as a Queensland representative in freestyle in 1921, and won the
Queensland high diving championship in 1931.
Miss Flo Granville, the new President, has been a member of the Sandgate Club
since its inception.
----------------------C.M. Monday 20 October 1947
DENISE USES U.S SYSTEM
Sydney, Sunday
Denise Spencer, holder of the Bennett Trophy for swimmer nearest to world
standard, is following the established American method of training at the North
Sydney Olympic Pool.
Holder of the Australian 220 yards and 440 yards freestyle championships which
she won in Adelaide last season, Spencer has greatly enthused the Australian
Swimming Union's coaches, Forbes Carlisle and Professor Cotton, by her willingness
to adopt their suggestions.
Each day she swims twice at the pool between 8 and 11am and 3.30 and 5.30pm. Long
swims are interspersed with an hour's kicking each day with "fins" attached to aid
development of her kick.
Miss Spencer has not been asked to race seriously against time since her recent
arrival, but already her speed has increased. In one long trial she reduced her 440
yards time by several seconds.
Miss Spencer, who comes from Roma in Queensland where she trained alone, will
remain in Sydney until after the Australian Championships in February.
C.M. Saturday 22 November 1947
SWIM STAR IN SECOND PLACE
Peter Maxwell, State freestyle champion, was beaten over his own distance of 200
metres in the opening swimming carnival at the Valley Baths last night. Maxwell was
beaten by former Victorian junior, Ron Miller.
Some ladies results –
Freestyle Open 100 metres – J.Young (V) 1, N.Duffy (S’gate) 2, M.Frauenfelder (V) 3
Junior 100 metres Freestyle – D.Wehl (St Margarets) 1, J.Speed (Ips) 2, E.liddle
(V) 3
Sub-junior 50 metres – L.Campbell (V) 1, J.Speed (Ips) 2, B.Mahoney (CP) 3
Backstroke Open 100 metres – N.Lyons (V) 1, N.Duffy (S’gate) 2, B.Ward (V) 3
Senior 50 metres – E.Eacott (S’gate) 1, J.Carey (V) 2, L.Chave (Lea) 3
Breaststroke Open 100 metres – N.Lyons (V) 1, M.Rogers (Moreton Bay) 2
Junior 50 metres – E.Liddle (V) 1, M.Dunn (V) 2, E.Eacott (S’gate) 3
-------------------C.M. Wednesday 3 December 1947
STOP BETTING ON SWIMS
“Betting is known to have taken place at recent swimming carnivals held in
Brisbane,” said the QASA Chairman, Mr J.S.Emerson last night.
“It was reported that a sub-junior swimmer had been backed to win £75 pounds in a
30 metre race,” said Mr Emerson.
“Drastic action would be taken to prevent betting occurring again,” he added.
Future carnivals would be policed. Notices prohibiting betting would be posted,
and the QASA would refuse the right of entry to any person without explanation. Mr
Emerson said, “The QASA took a serious view of the incident”. “Betting would have a
deleterious effect on swimming which is an amateur sport,” he said. “Any swimmer who
took part in betting would be automatically disqualified.”
95 TEAMS IN RELAY
Ninetyfive teams, each of four men, will compete in relays at the Valley Club’s
swimming carnival at the Valley Baths tonight.
The carnival is in celebration of the Valley Club’s Golden Jubilee.
Five former Australian champions will appear in exhibition swims. They are
T.Boast, S.Springfield, F.Springfield, Lad Collins, and R.Grier.
C.M. Thursday 4 December 1947
MERCANTILE SWIM SHIELD TO HOPE’S B TEAM
Charles Hope’s B team won the Elphingstone Shield in a close finish at the Valley
Club’s interclub carnival at the Valley Baths last night.
Some 2000 people watched the carnival. Nearly 10 teams were entered by city
firms.
One of the best races of the night was the men’s interclub 200 metres freestyle
which was won by A.Imrie in 2 min36 4/10 secs. At the end of the second lap there
was not much more than four yards between the eight competitors, and four held out
for a very close finish. A.J.Millar who defeated P.Maxwell over a similar distance
at the QASA carnival missed a place.
MANY DISQUALIFIED
A large number of teams were disqualified in the mercantile relay handicap for
breaking their submitted time by more than five seconds. Some bettered their own
tomes by up to fourteen seconds.
Valley No 1 had a convincing win in the 400 metres interclub relay.
Exhibition swims were given by veterans and past and present champions, including
Reg Grier, Tom Boast, and Sid Springfield.
Making her last appearance in Brisbane for some time, Diana Stanfield won the
ladies Open 50 metres freestyle in 32 2/5 seconds. Miss Stanfield will shortly
rejoin her family in New Guinea.
----------------C.M. Tuesday 17 December 1947
DATES SET DOWN FOR SWIM TESTS
The schedule of events in the metropolitan section of the State test swims was
announced last night. From the tests a Queensland team will be picked to swim in the
Australian Championships in Sydney from February 6 to 13.
All metropolitan tests will e swum at the Valley Baths before Friday January 23.
The team will be announced on January 25.
C.M. Thursday 19 December 1947
NANCY LYONS SYDNEY PLANS
Nancy Lyons, Australian breaststroke champion, is likely to stay in Sydney until
after the national championships there February 6-13. She is to fly to Sydney this
morning and train under Olympic coach, Professor Cotton. Nancy recently had a week’s
training in Sydney and returned to Brisbane last week.
Mr W Berge Phillips (ASU Secretary and swimming selector) wrote this week on
behalf of the Olympic Preparation Committee asking that Nancy be allowed to train
further with the Olympic squad which would provide her with instruction and
opposition not available in Brisbane.
Her father, Mr R.B.Lyons, said last night, however, that Nancy wants to finish
her national title training under local coach Miss Mabel Springfield who introduced
her to the Butterfly stroke.
Nancy last night swam 100 metres backstroke in 89 second at the Valley Club
Best time for the night was 6mins 28 secs by 14 year old J.Nash for the boys 400
metres freestyle.
SWIMMING TEAM TO VISIT ROMA
A combined swimming team from Brisbane and Ipswich to visit Roma on New Year’s
Day was announced yesterday.
Brisbane swimmers will be – Clarence Hoey (Uni), George Newton (Val), Merle Duffy
(Postal Institute),Norma Liddle (Val),and E.Eacott (Sandgate).
Ipswich Members will be – Peter Maxwell, Col Bannerman, and Joyce Speed.
The Manager will be QASA Chairman, Mr J.S.Emerson. he said he hoped the tip would
be extended to cover Charleville on January 3. The team will leave Brisbane on
December 30.
---------------------
C.M. Tuesday 29 December 1947
SWIMMING TEAM TO VISIT ROMA
Valley swimmer Des Mason has been added to the QASA team to leave for Roma tomorrow
to compete on Thursday night.
The Roma body specially asked that a sub-junior freestyle swimmer be included in
the team. Mason looks the best Under 14 swimmer about this season.
Leander girl Lyn Chave will replace Eve Eacott as sub-junior freestyler and
backstroker.
Thelma Wehl, national girl champion showed her first glimpse of returning form
this season by swimming 100 metres freestyle in 75 seconds at Roma last week.
Des Ferricks, Open freestyle “find” from Rockhampton, is to be financed by
Rockhampton to come to Brisbane for the State test swims on January 23.
-------------------C.M. Thursday 8 January 1948
TWO NSW SWIM TITLES TAKEN BY QUEENSLAND GIRLS
Sydney, Wednesday
Queenslanders Nancy Lyons and Denise Spencer were not troubled to win two State
Championships in the North Sydney pool tonight. Nancy won the 220 yards Open
Breaststroke and Denise took the 220 yards Freestyle title.
Officials had been worried by the fact that Nancy’s time of 3 min 18.8 secs was
much below the times she recorded last year when swimming the orthodox breaststroke
style. Recently she has changed over to the “butterfly” breaststroke style and has
been undergoing special coaching by Professor Cotton of the Sydney University and Mr
Forbes Carlisle of the NSW Amateur Swimming Association.
COACH SATISFIED
Immediately after this swim tonight, however, Professor Cotton and Mr Carlisle
announced that Nancy would be kept to the butterfly breaststroke style for the
Australian titles. It had been rumoured earlier in the night that if her time was
not satisfactory she would be switched, with only a month to go, to the orthodox
style.
Last year she won the Australian championship in 3 mins 17 secs in Adelaide.
Several months before that, she had broken Claire Dennis Australian record of 3 mins
9 1/5 secs in 3 mins 8 secs. She is regarded as Australia’s greatest girl
breaststroke exponent and a certainty for Olympic selection.
MAY IMPROVE
Professor Cotton said tonight he was very pleased with her performance despite
the fact her time was not up to expectations. “She has only been at the new style a
little while, and we are hopeful she will improve on tonight’s time considerably in
the next few weeks,” he said.
“With 25 yards to go she had any amount in reserve and the manner in which she
came away to win showed that she would considerably improve on that time,” he added.
In the 220 yards Open Freestyle Championship, Australian champion Denise Spencer
won easily from the New Zealand champion Betty Casey with P.McHugh (Bondi) third.
Denise did the distance in 2 mins 34 secs but failed to break the Sate record of 2
mins 32 secs established by the West Australian girl, Dot Green.
--------------------
C.M. Saturday 10 January 1948
DENISE WALKED MILE BEFORE 440 TITLE SWIM
Sydney, Friday
The Australian Olympic swimming hope, Queenslander Denise Spencer, was walked
briskly up and down the Coogee promenade for more than a mile before winning the
State 440 yards Open Freestyle Championship. She was accompanied in her brisk
limbering-up exercise by her mentor, Professor Cotton of Sydney University.
His was Denise fourth swim at the Championships. She won the Open Freestyle
titles 110, 220, 440 and 880 yards. Denise easily beat the New Zealand champion
Betty Casey who touched just before Bondi girl P.McHugh.
Her time of 5 mins 38.8 secs was 3.8 secs slower than the Australian record set
by West Australian girl Dot Green in 1939, but was 8.1secs better than the time she
took to win the Australian title last year.
Her coaches Forbes Carlisle and Professor Cotton decided she needed a good
exercise tonight because the usual warm bath which the Carlisle-Cotton combine use
as a preliminary for their swimmers before entering the pool was not available.
C.M. Wednesday 21 January 1948
TRAINED IN CREEKS FOR SWIM TESTS
Judy Young and Bill Gillies, winners of last night’s metropolitan test swims for
State selection at the Valley Baths last night both trained in South Coast creeks.
Gillies won a double, the 330 metres medley and ten minutes later the 1500 metres
freestyle.
Judy took the women’s 400 metres freestyle. Judy has done all her training this
season, except for a few days, in a backwater of the Tweed River.
Gillies had not seen the baths for five weeks before last night. He had worked in
the Nerang River behind Surfers Paradise. He swam the medley distance in 3 mins 5.8
secs which was 11.2 secs outside Ron Boyd’s time in the Australian championships
last year, and was 1.4 secs outside Gillies own State title time last year.
Gillies swam 23 mins 41 secs for the 1500 metres. His time was more than 3 mins
outside John Marshall’s Australian title time last year.
Judy Young’s 40 was the fastest long distance swim of her career.
-------------------C.M. Thursday 22 January 1948
MAXWELL’S WIN IN SWIM TEST
By Neville Davidson
Four swimmers finished within two feet at the end of the freestyle 800 metres at
the metropolitan tests at the Valley Baths last night.
Peter Maxwell beat Bill Gillies by a touch with Stan Jacobs third and Greg Halpin
fourth. Maxwell finished fast in the centre after being two yards behind Gillies at
the last turn. The time was 11 mins 51.2 secs. It was 9.5 secs outside Ian Waddell’s
State title time last year.
Maxwell was tired before and after the race due to lack of sleep after spending
the whole of Monday night nursing a sick cow at his Brassall home outside Ipswich.
Jacobs made a great bid to steal the race. He was ten yards in front at the half
way. Gillies caught him with 50 metres to go, but Jacobs kicked on again and was
only a foot behind Gillies at the line. Halpin fell back all the way but he finished
faster than anyone in the last lap and was a foot behind Jacobs.
(Picture of Maxwell and Gillies as they cam out of the water)
----------------------
C.M. Friday 23 January 1948
13 YEAR OLD’S FAST SWIM
Joyce Speed, 13 year old Ipswich girl, covered 200 metres freestyle in 2 mins
46.3 secs in the women’s junior test at the Valley Baths last night. The time was
4.3 secs faster than the Australian junior (Under 16) record for 220 yards.
Judy Young won the women’s open 200 metres trial in 2 mins 46.6 secs.
Jack Bell took the men’s 20 in 2 mins 34 secs. Jack was 7.5 secs outside 18 year
old Denise Spencer’s best time for the distance. It will be a new State time as
there was no previous record.
(Results of each night were listed in full each edition)
--------------------C.M. Friday 6 February – Picture of Denise Spencer and Nancy Lyons
--------------------C.M. Tuesday 10 February 1948
DENISE SECOND IN 110 YARDS HEAT
Queenslander Denise Spencer was beaten in her heat of the Australian 110 yards
freestyle last night. She went down by a yard to the title holder Judy Davies who
also beat her into second place in the final last year.
Queensland will have three swimmers in the field, Denise, Judy Young, and Thelma
Wehl. Thelma won the seventh qualifying position after a swim-off.
Fastest time in the heats was recorded by the Victorian stylist Margaret
(Marjorie) McQuade.
C.M. Wednesday 11 February 1948
DENISE DOWNS JUDY DAVIES IN 110 YARDS SWIM
Sydney Tuesday
Queenslander Denise Spencer realised a four year ambition tonight when she won
the 110 yards freestyle title fro, Victorian Judy Davies in 1m 10 1/5 secs. Denise
had been runner-up in three previous years, Judy Davies beating her in Adelaide last
year.
The race was most closely contested until the last ten yards when Denise shot
away to touch the boards two yards ahead of Judy, who was only six inches ahead of
the thirteen year old Victorian, Margaret McQuade. Margaret early tested the speed
of both Denise and Judy and was a touch ahead of them at the 55 yards which was
covered in 33.6 seconds.
Denise has now won the 110 yards and 440 yards Freestyle Championships, and is
also expected to win the 220 yards. Before the race Denise was again in a hot bath
of temperature 113 degrees. She has implicitly obeyed the instruction of Professor
Sutton and Forbes Carlisle in taking a hot bath before her races, and her recent
wins have demonstrated the value of this method of warming up before a championship
swim.
FAST MEDLEY
Three Queensland girls clipped 12.7 seconds off the Australian record for the 330
yards Women’s Medley Teams Championship. They were, Denise Spencer, Jeanette Holle,
and Nancy Lyons. The time for the race was 4m 0.5 secs, compared with the previous
Australian record of 4 13.2 secs.
The sensation of the night was the unofficial clocking of seventeen year old
Nancy Lyons who swam butterfly breaststroke in her section of 110 yards in 1m 22.6
secs. This is 6.4 seconds below the Australian record for the distance. Nancy holds
the 220 yards Australian Breaststroke Championship, and changed from the orthodox to
the butterfly style only seven weeks ago. She has been in Sydney for seven weeks
training with Professor Cotton and Forbes Carlisle who described her efforts to
master a difficult technique as “prodigious”.
One of the most thrilling races of the night was the final of the Junior
Championship with Brian Walker just touching ahead of George Newton (Q) in the 110
yards event, with James Carey (NSW) in third place. The time was 64.5 seconds.
--------------------C.M. Thursday 12 February 1948
SWIM TITLES IN BRISBANE NEXT YEAR
Sydney Wednesday
The 1949 Australian Swimming Championships will be held in Brisbane in the last
week of February. This was decided at the annual Conference of the Australian
Swimming Union today.
The decision was made after an amendment to the rules to allow National Title
events to be conducted over metric distances. Brisbane is the only capital where the
baths were built on metric measurements. Many delegates strongly criticised the
decision. They claimed the Brisbane pool had the worst appointments in Australia and
could not accommodate anyway near the numbers of spectators who would want to see
the swimming. The decision was made only after strong representation by the
Queensland delegate, Mr J.Emerson.
A motion by New South Wales that at least twelve Olympic swimmers be chosen by
the selectors, was carried.
-----------------------C.M. Friday 13 February 1948
DENISE DOWN IN 880 YARDS SWIM
JUDY DAVIES TAKES TITLE
Sydney Thursday
The Queenslander, Denise Spencer, suffered her first set-back in the Australian
Swimming Championships this afternoon when she lost her 880 yards title to versatile
Victorian swimmer, Judy Joy Davies, international backstroke champion. Denise
refused to make any excuses for her defeat. “I was really flat-out to the boards
this afternoon,” she said. “Judy was too good. We were both as hungry as horses as
we had eaten at 11 o’clock expecting the race to start at 3.30pm, but when it didn’t
start until 5.10pm, it left us feeling a bit famished.”
Earlier in the week Denise turned the tables on Judy by taking the 110 yards
sprint championship title. Today both girls were neck and neck until the last 50
yards when Judy finished stronger to touch 2 yards in front of Denise.
There is no significance in Denise’ defeat, as her specialist distance is 440
yards in which she set a new Australian record of 5m 21½ secs last week.
The half mile this afternoon was swum in the very slow time of 12m 8.5 secs.
Judy’s time was actually 22 seconds slower than Denise’ time in the 880 yards in the
New South Wales Championships last month, while Denise was 24 seconds behind her own
time.
Denise has had almost a surfeit of hard swimming recently. She has been training
for nearly 17 weeks. She scooped the pool in the New South Wales State
Championships, and in the last week cleared away with the Australian 110 and 440
yards titles, while she also took part in the record-breaking Queensland medley 330
yards event.
Denise and Nancy Lyons will swim tomorrow in the 220 yards freestyle and
breaststroke respectively. The finals will be swum on Saturday night. Both are
expected to win. Nancy recently changed to the butterfly technique and has been
making tremendous efforts to conquer the difficult style.
------------------------C.M. Saturday 14 February 1948
SELECTORS TO CHOOSE OLYMPIC TEAM
Sydney Friday
The panel of Selectors will announce whom they nominate for selection on
Thursday. The annual Conference suggested that they choose twelve swimmers, but the
Selectors are not bound to do so. Those who so far have shown the strongest claims
for selection by the Union but not necessarily by the Australian Olympic Selectors
are, Denise Spencer (freestyle Qld), Judy Joy Davies (backstroke Vic), John Davies
(breaststroke NSW), Bruce Bourke (backstroke NSW), john Marshall (1500 metres
freestyle Vic), G.Agnew (100 metres freestyle WA), and Nancy Lyons (breaststroke
Qld).
Three events in which the Selectors will be keenly interested will be contested at
the North Sydney Pool in the final carnival tomorrow night. They are the 110 yards
freestyle and the men’s and women’s breaststroke. High hopes are held for Nancy
Lyons who has been concentrating on the 220 yards breaststroke event. She will swim
the much debated “butterfly” stroke by which she is expected to lower the winning
time of last year, down considerably. A time in the vicinity of 3m 10 secs should
ensure selection.
QUEENSLANDERS TO THE FORE
Other title events o be decided include the men’s 880 yards and the women’s 220
yards freestyle. In these events, strong candidates for the Games, John Marshall,
Denise Spencer, and Judy Joy Davies, will be making their last appearance before the
Selectors.
In the men’s 110 yards freestyle Frank O’Neill will be defending his
title. Qualifiers for the race are Frank O’Neill, Bruce Bourke, Warren Boyd (NSW),
Jack Bell, David Ferricks, George Newton (Qld), and James Beard (Vic).
Queenslanders figured prominently in the heats at the Granville pool this
afternoon. Denise Spencer was never extended to win her 220 yards freestyle heat,
and Judy Young was third in her heat.
In the two heats of the 110 yards women’s junior championship, Joyce Speed (Ips)
and Thelma Wehl (Roma) finished second to Victorian Margaret McQuade who broke the
race record 1m 13 7/10secs.
--------------------C.M. Monday 16 February 1948
OLYMPIC GAMES SWIMMING SQUAD
DENISE AND NANCY AMONG ELEVEN SELECTED
Sydney Sunday
Two Queenslanders, Denise Spencer and Nancy Lyons, have been chosen. Denise has
been ranked fifth, and Nancy sixth.
The section followed the greatest carnival in the history of Australian
Championships. Five Australian records and three native-born records were broken and
one native-born record equalled.
The selected representatives are – John Marshall (freestyle) 1, John Davies NSW
(breaststroke) 2, Judy Joy Davies Vic (backstroke) 3, G.Agnew WA (freestyle) 4,
Denise Spencer Qld (freestyle) 5, Nancy Lyons Qld (breaststroke) 6, Bruce Bourke NSW
(backstroke and freestyle) 7, Marjorie McQuade Vic (freestyle) 8, Warren Boyd NSW
(freestyle) 9, Dana Morris Vic (diving) 10, Kevin Hallett NSW (breaststroke) 11.
At the National championships Denise won the 110,220, and 440 yards freestyle,
and was second to Judy Joy Davies in the 880 yards. Her time of 5m 31.5secs in the
440 yards broke the Australian record by 3.9 seconds.
Nancy won the 220 yards breaststroke title and was second to Judy Joy Davies in
the 165 yards medley race.
Records were also broken by John Marshall, Marjorie McQuade, Warren Bourke.
These performances eased the task of the Selectors who based the times on those
of the European Games and the 1947 American Championships. Twenty five Nations
competed in the European Games.
NEAR WORLD TIMES
The Selectors found that all of the swimmers were near the best world times.
Their performances would have gained them high places in both the European and the
American Championships.
Thirteen year old Victorian schoolgirl, Marjorie McQuade, who has been ranked
eighth, is the youngest Australian to be nominated for the Games. Bonnie Mealing was
fourteen when she swam.
------------------C.M. Tuesday 17 February 1948
NANCY LYONS OUR MAIN GAMES SWIM HOPE
Queenslander, Nancy Lyons, is the best Australian prospect of winning an Olympic
Title.
She would have won the European breaststroke title with her time of 3m 9.9secs at
North Sydney at the weekend. As Nancy has only recently begun concentrating on her
butterfly stroke, she was expected to reduce this time considerably now, but she has
still to face the Dutch girl Nel Van Vielt who swum 2m 49.2secs.
All Australian swimmers have recorded times that put them close to Olympic
records, with the final polishing-up phase of training before July 29.
The final team will be announced on March 7.
-------------------C.M. Friday 20 February 1948
SWIMMING STARS NOT UPSET
Joe Emerson denied last night that the training of Denise Spencer and Nancy Lyons
had been upset by activities in support of the Olympic Fund. He said Denise did not
enter the water for a week before her 440 yards race, but she broke the Australian
record by 3.9 seconds. Nancy Lyons was away from the baths for four days before her
220 yards breaststroke. The rests were ordered by Professor Cotton who supervised
their training. He also said that the swimming times were 11 seconds better than his
expectation.
Mr Emerson said Denise and Nancy would rest all day today before competing at the
State Championships tonight.
DODSON FASTEST IN SWIM TITLE HEATS
Peter Dodson got fastest time in the heats of the 100 metres State Freestyle
Championship at the Valley Baths last night. He celebrated his nineteenth birthday
by winning last night’s heat Peter is making his fifth trip at the moment in quest
of a State title. He has recorded numerous placings in Under Age events. Peter’s
time last night was 65.8 seconds. Clarence Hoey won the other heat in 67 seconds.
Rockhampton sprinter Dave Ferricks who has recorded 62.8 seconds did not arrive
in Brisbane until late last night. He was put into the final by special provision of
the QASA Executive.
Alan Bowden who also arrived on a late plane from Rockhampton was put in the
Intermediate freestyle 200 metres final on similar conditions.
Both finals will be swum tonight
C.M. Saturday 21 February 1948
SWIM TITLE WON IN LAST TWO INCHES
Dave Ferricks, Rockhampton swimmer, won the State 100 metres Freestyle
Championship in the last two inches at the Valley Baths last night.
Ferricks made a determined effort in the last few yards to overhaul the leader,
Peter Dodson, of Roma, who was still in front with a yard to go. Dodson, however,
missed his touch by about two inches and Ferricks shot out his left hand to get the
decision.
Ferricks flew from Rockhampton on Thursday night to fulfil a dying wish of his
Mother, who died on Tuesday, that he should swim in the State title race.
Ferricks time was 65.1 seconds and Dodson 65.2. They turned together at the half
way, but Dodson had nearly a foot advantage with 10 metres to go.
GIRL COLLAPSES
Thelma Wehl, after breaking a record in the Under 15 Freestyle 50 metres title,
collapsed when running third in the Women’s Junior 200 metres Freestyle. The girl
was held up in the water by Pam Coughlin in the next lane until officials pulled her
out. The winner was Joyce Speed who was pressed by Thelma over the first 50 metres.
Thelma broke the Under 15 50 metres freestyle record by clocking 32.6 secs in the
final. She had equalled the record of 32.7 secs in her heat.
NEW RECORD SET
Clarence Hoey, swimming butterfly, broke the men’s Open breaststroke record held
by Peter Lyons, by 4.9 seconds. Hoey’s time was 69.3 seconds.
The Junior 50 metres Freestyle time of 28.8 secs was equalled by George Newton in
his heat.
Don Michael, in swimming 65.1 secs in winning the men’s 100 metres backstroke,
was only 1/10 sec outside the best backstroke time by a Queenslander.
Judy Young was beaten by only a yard by Denise Spencer in the women’s Open
freestyle 100, and made her best time of 62.1 secs.
Nancy Lyon won the 200 metres Breaststroke comfortably, but clocked 3m 17.6 secs.
This time is well outside her best time.
-------------------C.M. Tuesday 24 February 1948
DENISE SETS NEW RECORD FOR 50 METRES
Denise Spencer, Queensland’s Olympic candidate, broke her own State record for 50
metres freestyle at the State Swimming Championships at the valley Baths Last night.
Denise, who has been suffering from a cold in the head and had one finger in
plaster, overcame both disabilities to win well. Her time of 31.1 seconds cut 0.3
sec off her official record although she has been cocked at 30.7 in interschool
races. Denise swam hard all the way and was never headed. She beat Judy Young by 1
1/4 yards with Thelma Wehl another foot away. Denise was unofficially clocked at
31.1 in the opening lap of the women’s relay 150 metres.
Six individual records were smashed last night and one time equalled.
BROKE THREE RECORDS
Lesley Campbell, twelve year old Valley girl was responsible for three records.
She lowered the Under 12 50 metres freestyle time of 36 seconds swimming 34.4 in the
heat and 33.8 in the final.
Swimming butterfly, Lesley clocked 42.5 in the
breaststroke 50 metres junior heat. This was under her own record last year.
Dave Ferricks, Rockhampton boy, completed the freestyle sprint double by winning
the 200 metres freestyle last night. Ferricks had previously won the 100.
George Newton, national junior winner over 100 yards freestyle, cleared out with
the Under 15 freestyle 100. He clocked 65.7, and cut 2.9 secs off the Under 15
record.
Junior backstroke girl, Jeanette Holle, lowered her own State time by half a
second in the backstroke junior 100 to break the sixth record.
(Picture of Lesley Campbell winning the breaststroke)
----------------------C.M. Thursday 26 February 1948
REFEREE RULES ON SWIMMER FOR STATE TITLE
Officials conferred before Jack Boast was awarded the intermediate breaststroke
100 metres at the Valley Baths last night.
Referee, Joe Emerson, said that steward Ray Franzen had called his attention to
the fact that Boast was turning his head sideways. Mr Emerson ruled, however, that
Boast had swum a correct stroke and had not infringed any rules. Boast tired badly
in the last 15 metres and his stroking was irregular. Mr Emerson said that turning
his head had not caused Boast to dip is shoulders. Unlevel shoulders would have
meant disqualification. Boast is son of former Olympic backstroker, Tom Boast, and a
State junior breaststroke representative last season. Last night in the heats he
swam orthodox stroke for 90.4 secs and was beaten by Joe Doran in 89.2 secs. Boast
swam butterfly in the final and just won from John Baldwin in 85.3 secs.
Olympic candidates Denise Spencer and Nancy Lyons won their events. Denise took a
comfortable 200 metres freestyle victory, and Nancy’s superior condition got her
through in the backstroke 100.
Denise swam a slashing 50 metres in the women’s 200 metres relay for Roma. Some
unofficial watches clocked her to break 30seconds.
Individual record breakers were – Joyce Speed with 33.4 in the Under 14 freestyle
50, and Des Mason in 37.8 secs in the boys sub-junior backstroke 50.
Thelma Wehl won the women’s junior 50 freestyle in a photo finish from Lesley
Campbell, Joyce Speed and Pam Coughlin. Thelma’s nose bled and she dazed herself
when she hit her head on the end of the pool in beating Lesley by 1/10 sec.
MOVE TO GET LARGER SWIM POOL
Queensland Amateur Swimming Association will ask City Council to begin
immediately the task of enlarging the Ithaca Baths. Ithaca pool is 25 yards long.
The Association wants it increased to 55 yards, the standard Australian championship
dimension.
The Association asked for the decision to be made to enable them to conduct the
Australian diving championships at Ithaca next year. Queensland has been allotted
next year’s National Titles, but has no pool in which to conduct the diving events.
The Valley Baths, nearest to approach to Australian standards, has no high tower,
and in any case is not deep enough for high diving requirements.
FACILITES LACKING
Association Chairman (Mr J.S.Emerson) said last night that space was available at
Ithaca for the alterations sought. “This is only the first step in a campaign for
better swimming facilities for Brisbane,” he said. “We know the public is not
getting fair use of the Valley pool, but we make no apologies for tying it up for
our State carnivals. Similarly, school and Club carnivals must go on if we are to
develop swimming. The plain fact is, there are not enough swimming pools in
Brisbane. Facilities here are shockingly inadequate. We feel so strongly on this
issue that e have urged hat swimming be a compulsory subject in schools.”
---------------------
C.M. Thursday 27 February 1948
DENISE IN NEW RECORD
Denise Spencer was dazed by knocking her head on the turn but broke her own
country record at the State Country Swimming Titles last night. She finished
strongly to finish in 32.5 secs for the 50 metres freestyle. The previous record was
32.6 secs.
Denise won by a yard from Joyce Speed (Ipswich) and Thelma Wehl (Roma). Dense was
assisted from the water but soon recovered from the knock.
Dave Ferricks of Rockhampton won the men’s 10 metres title by 2 yards from Col
Bannerman (Ipswich) and Peter Maxwell (Ipswich). The time was 64.8 secs.
A.Caufield won the junior men’s 50 metres in 30.5 secs. J.O’Neill (Toowoomba) was
second and K.Witt (Maryborough) third.
--------------------C.M. Saturday 28 February 1948
GIRL SWIMMER IN GRITTY WIN
Roma girl, Thelma Wehl, gave a gritty performance to win the State Junior Women’s
Freestyle 100 metres title at the Valley Baths last night.
Thelma had started eight times in St Margaret’s school title in the afternoon,
and although tired before the race, she came from behind to beat Joyce Speed of
Ipswich by about half a yard. Joyce holds the State junior record for 100 and led by
half a yard at the turn, but she cold not stall off Thelma over the last 25 metres.
Judy Young, who held the junior title, won her first State Open race when she
took the 400 metres. Judy’s time was 5m 57.7s, but she lost almost 5 seconds when
she turned back to help Denise Spencer who collapsed at the 300 metres mark.
FOUR AGE RECORDS
Four Under Age records were broken. Des Mason completed a treble in the subjunior strokes when he took the backstroke 50 in 37.4secs, 2 seconds under the
previous record.
George Newton swam he fastest 100 by a junior in Queensland when he won the men’s
junior title by 5 yards in 65.3 seconds.
Other records went to Henry Weld who beat Don Trenerry by a touch in 31.3 seconds
in the Under 13 freestyle 50, and E.Eacott who won the women’s sub-junior backstroke
comfortably in 41.2 seconds.
Front page article -
DENISE SPENCER IN SWIM COLLAPSE
Denise Spencer, an Olympic candidate, collapsed during the women’s freestyle 400
metres race at the Valley Baths last night. She received medical attention and was
taken to her hotel by her mother and coach Reg Booker.
A Roma Doctor who was at the Championships said that Denise had a heavy cold and
an obstruction n the nose. Denise hit hr nose hard at the Country Titles in Ipswich
on Thursday night, and a medical examination yesterday morning revealed that the
cartilage had been moved and the membrane bruised.
ORDERED REST
The Doctor said Denise should not be allowed to swim for several days.
Denise and Judy approached the turn at 300 metres together when Denise began to
weaken. She clung to the end of the pool and officials quickly helped her out. Judy
stopped and was about to turn back to help Denise, but the officials assisted her.
Judy lost about six seconds but went on to win comfortably.
Shirley Richards, a City pastime girl, swimming in an earlier race, blacked out
in the pool and had to be pulled out by Life Savers, Irving Springfield and Roy
Holland. City Pastime officials said that Shirley had collapsed previously at Club
swims because the chin strap on her cap tightened in the water.
-------------------C.M. Monday 8 March 1948
QUEENSLANDERS VICTIMS OF SPORT POLITICS
OLYMPIC TEAM SELECTION SHOCKS
By Jim Vine (Sports Editor)
Denise Spencer and Nancy Lyons, and to a lesser extent cyclist Ken Caves, seem to
have been innocent victims of sports politics at the Olympic team selections.
Swimming, one of Australia’s major sports, with only four representatives in the
team of 34, has been made the Cinderella sport.
Denise and Nancy rated fifth and sixth in the swimming gradings seemed Olympic
“certainties”. Caves was always in doubt. He was number five on the cycling panel.
Australia has never sent more than four cyclists to the Games. Even so, Caves
received a higher position in the final gradings than either of the girls. He is
first reserve, Denise second, and Nancy fifth. Some of these selections seem
inexplicable.
Queensland girls have done everything asked of them this season. Denise has been
specially set for the Games 400 metres, and at the present Australian Championships
set a new Australian record of 5m 31.5s for the 440 yards. Nancy, after nine weeks
training in the new “butterfly” stroke, swam 3m 9.6s for the 220 yards breaststroke,
only four seconds outside Claire Dennis’ record.
But the merit of these performances is that both have been set a long way ahead
in their training schedule designed to bring them to their top at the Games. They
were expected to make vast improvement between now and July.
The team of 34 comprises 12 athletes, 7 rowers, 4 cyclists, 4 boxers, 4 swimmers,
2 wrestlers, and a weight lifter.
----------------------C.M. Wednesday 10 March 1948
FUND FILLED IN TWO DAYS
QUEENSLAND’S REPLY TO GAMES REBUFF
By Jim Vines
In two days the Queensland Amateur Swimming Association’s £650 appeal to send
Nancy Lyons to the Olympic Games has been oversubscribed. This means that Queensland
will now have five games representatives, Cass Higham and Lawrie Birks boxers,
swimmers Denise Spencer and Nancy Lyons, and cyclist Ken Caves.
----------------------C.M. Monday 15 March 1948
DENISE FIT AGAIN TO GO SOUTH
Queensland’s Olympic swimmer, Denise Spencer, has fully recovered from her
collapse at the State Titles last month and will leave by air today for further
intensive training in Sydney. She and the other Olympic swimmer, Nancy Lyons, leave
by plane at 9.45 this morning.
Interviewed at her hotel last night, Denise looked a picture of health. During
the past fortnight she has been home in Roma where country friends have been giving
her farewell parties. Denise’ swimming collapse was due to a blocked nasal passage
which has since been treated by her Doctor in Roma. The injury has not given her any
further trouble.
She and Nancy will train in Sydney under coaches Cotton and Carlisle until the
end of April when they will return home for two weeks.
Denise and Nancy are expected back in Brisbane for the Queensland Ladies Amateur
Swimming Association’s Ball at the City Hall on April 28.
C.M. Wednesday 17 March 1948
SWIM RUMPUS OVER GAMES TEAM SELECTION
Sydney Tuesday
President of the Australian Swimming Union, Mr Bennett, and the Union’s
Secretary, Mr Phillips, have asked the State Associations to discipline Victorian
Swimming Association’s Chairman, Mr W.Uren,
The request follows the action of Mr Uren in accepting the nomination as the
Australian Swimming Union’s representative at the special Grading Panel at the
recent meeting of the Australian Olympic Federation. Despite a request by Mr Bennett
that he should refuse nomination, and so allow Mr Phillips to sit on the Panel, Mr
Uren allowed his name to go to a ballot. Mr Uren was appointed by a full vote of the
Federation.
Mr Uren has countered the charges made against him by urging the States to “curb”
Mr Phillips.
Charges have been made since the meeting of the Federation that Mr Uren joined
the Panel without sufficient information from the Australian Swimming Union on the
performances of the swimmers nominated and without the latest information on world
performances.
It had been stated he was unable to overcome objections by representatives of
other sporting bodies, and succeeded gaining a place for only four swimmers.
STATES CIRCULARISED
Special reports of the meeting of the Federation and the actions of Mr Uren have
been circulated to all the State Associations by Messrs Bennett and Phillips.
In a lengthy letter Mr Bennett says it has come to his knowledge that a
prearranged plan was agreed to by certain persons representing other Unions at the
Olympic Federation’s conference. They approached Mr J.J.Meagher of the Queensland
Cyclists Union who nominated Mr Uren in opposition to my nomination, said Mr
Phillips.
Mr Phillips being an ASU selector was the obvious choice for the Panel, but
despite my protest, Mr Uren persisted in accepting the nomination and was
subsequently elected. I am informed Mr Uren was approached by the opposition before
the meeting of the Federation started.
His failure to secure a larger
representation of swimmers is not surprising because he is not in possession of the
facts relating to our swimmers.
Phillips has spent many months in scanning current figures which were impossible
for other Unions to contradict.
MR UREN’S REPLY
In a vigorous reply in a letter Mr Uren informed State Association Secretaries
that he had not contravened the regulations of the Union, and no authority existed
to take action as requested. Mr Uren made charges against Mr Phillips and said that
antagonism towards the ASU had been fostered by his irrational provocative public
utterances.
Mr Uren concluded by saying that although he had paid tribute to the Secretarial
work of Mr Phillips, he considered at there were limits to his duties. His incursion
outside what he contends are the limits of his legitimate duties should be curbed.
They call for directions from State Associations if Unions are to be spared the
indignity of ostracism of the rest of the amateur sporting community of Australia,
he said.
C.M. Wednesday 24 March 1948
SENDING EMERSON TO EMPIRE GAMES
QASA Chairman, Mr J.S.Emerson, has been appointed an Australian Swimming Union
delegate in the position on the Empire Games Association. The other Australian
delegate is Mr Berge Phillips, Secretary of the Australian Swimming Union.
The Games were scheduled to be held in Canada in 1950, but New Zealand is now
angling for the carnival. The last Games were held in Sydney in 1938.
--------------------C.M. Wednesday 14 April 1948
ALL SWIMMERS IN GAMES TEAM
Finance has been found for all nominated swimmers and a water polo team of ten
for the Olympic Games.
The Secretary/Treasurer of the Australian Swimming Union, Mr W Berge Phillips
informed the QASA Chairman (Mr J.S.Emerson) to this effect last night. This means
that the eleven swimmers and the water polo team will now go to the Games instead of
the four named when the original team of 34 athletes was chosen.
The swimmers in order of rating are – John Marshall (Vic) freestyle, John Davies
(NSW) breaststroke, Judy Davies (Vic) backstroke, Garrick Agnew (WA) freestyle,
Denise Spencer (Qld) freestyle, Nancy Lyons (Qld) breaststroke, Bruce Bourke (NSW)
freestyle and backstroke, Marjorie McQuade (Vic) freestyle, Warren Boyd (NSW)
freestyle, David Norris (Vic) diving, and Kevin Hallet (NSW) breaststroke.
Six members of the water polo team are from New South Wales, four from Victoria.
The Secretary of the New South Wales Association, Mr S.Grange, said in Sydney
last night that the Executive had decided to ask the Australian Swimming Union to
agree by a telegraphic mail vote for £50 to be allocated to the training of each
swimmer before the team leaves.
It is believed the team will be at least five weeks in Melbourne.
Denise Spencer and Nancy Lyons will leave Queensland this week, having been asked
to return to Melbourne early in May.
The Executive also requests that the ASU coach, Mr Forbes Carlisle, be placed in
charge of the team.