The Warrnambool Surf Life Saving Club and Warrnambool Swimming Club member has a jam-packed summer planned in the pool and the surf in what could be her last chance for a while to compete to this capacity.

Thomas, 21, finished her marine biology degree on Tuesday, paving the way for a big summer of competition before she turns her sights to finding employment in her field.

In addition to the Victorian summer series with Warrnambool SLSC, she will also compete in Shipwreck Coast Swim Series, the Victorian Country Championships with the swimming club and ocean swims in New South Wales and Queensland, among other events and titles.

“I’m going to see out the season this year, (because) I’m not too sure if I’ll be able to compete like this next summer with full-time work,” she said. “I’ve got the perfect opportunity this summer.”

Thomas has already started the season on a strong note, finished 14th in the female elite category at Coolangatta Gold earlier this month.

One of Ironman and Ironwoman’s premier events, the Coolangatta Gold features a surfski leg before a run, a swim, a second run leg, a board component and then finishes with another run.

Thomas completed the 41.8km event in four hours, 58 minutes and 25 seconds. 

The strong performance came on the back of an intense winter of training, in which she significantly stepped up her usual off-season regimen.

“I had decided at the end of last season – off the back of the Aussies being cancelled – I would do something a bit different,” Thomas said.

“I’ve been in the sport 10 years … and thought I’d have a bit of a crack. I sat down with my dad (Bryan, in Ballarat) and worked out a good training program for the winter.

“I’d do three runs, five swims, two gym (sessions), and one board paddle during the week.

“It was a bit more intense than what I’d normally do during the winter, but it ended up being really good. It was a bit more interesting than just swimming (alone).”

Thomas said she was thrilled with her efforts in the swim and second run in particular, after finishing both legs in 11th place.