Mayley Cross – who was among a host of new Warrnambool swimmers competing at the meet – and Anna Dickson both swam qualifying times for the 50m backstroke.

Their efforts came as the club entered 74 swimmers in the event, which also drew competitors from Hamilton, Portland, Geelong and Melbourne.

“From a club perspective, we have the most we’ve ever had,” coach Jayson Lamb said.

Competitors ranged in age from eight to 26, with 10 new swimmers in the 12 and under age group.

Lamb said the meet – one of two long course gatherings in Warrnambool for the season – was handy in the lead-up to December’s state championships.

“It was a really good swim meet – it’s great to see that the range of ages,” he said.