In past years separate meets were held, Bondi Iceburgs hosted the women and the men competed at different venues around the nation.

Forster’s Turtles were there in full force with bright new costumes, beanies and even a green and gold banner.

The enthusiasm of the team of 32 was infectious, at least for the women members as they secured gold, bronze and silver while the men managed just two medals.

In individual events, Anne Curtis finally overcame her rival, Jenni Phillips, to gain a bronze in the final of the over 50s 50 metre sprint and Russell Jackson secured a second in the over 70s sprint.

Gordon Godwin (O/80s), Phil Stokes (O/60s), Lynn Graham (O/40s), Vicki Smyth (O/40s) and Susie Breese (O/40s) all made the 50 metre finals. However, it was in the relay events where the women gathered the medals.

The O/50s team of Anne Curtis, Sue Carmody, Leeanne Irving and Jenni Phillips outswam the opposition to grab the only gold for the Turtles while the O/30s team of Sue Breese, Jenny Saad, Marion Smith and Sharyn Schumann gained bronze.

The open team, of Anne Curtis, Leanne King, Vicki Smyth, Raelene Carmichael, Lynn Graham and Jenni Phillips managed silver against strong opposition from the young Bondi Mermaids team.

To top the day off, the Turtles were placed second to the Bondi Iceburgs and Mermaids in the overall point score.

Training is already underway for next year’s event, to be held in Tweed Heads.

Given the medal tally it’s expected that the men will join the 6am training sessions in an attempt to improve the score next year.

- Jenni Phillips