Binny News
Latest from Binny and the Masters Swimming community
From the outside, a Masters Swimming meet might look like just another competition. But for Lene Knudsen, her start in 2020 revealed something much deeper: a community that truly has room for everyone.
“My very first meet in Australia was a one-day Southside MSQ event at Chandler in 2020,” Lene recalls. “I went with my teammate, Kylie, and I remember meeting Christina, who had helped me over the phone to get our local club set up. It was just fun right from the beginning. I love that combination; there is room for that competitive side where you race your heart out, but it’s also friendly and social.”
What has kept Lene returning year after year is this unique balance of inclusivity. “It’s great to see people in their 80s and 90s still racing and having fun, and also to see the young ones who are moving away from elite swimming but still want a place where they can enjoy the actual sport. MSQ attracts all sorts—people with elite backgrounds, those just learning to swim regularly, and even those coming back from injury.”
For Lene, the memories stretch far beyond the lane ropes. The social calendar is just as vital as the race program. “There are so many trips away—the Gold Coast and Brisbane meets. We make a social plan around the swimming. Even at the World Masters in Singapore, it was amazing to see people from around the world taking it seriously while staying social. We know we’re not Olympians, but we love it.”
On paper, Lene’s achievements are elite. “Breaking the National Record in the 100 Fly was a highlight. Then there was the individual bronze medal at World Masters, and being named MSQ Female Swimmer of the Meet - I didn't expect that one!”
Behind those results is a quiet discipline and a long road back from injury. Lene credits her success to a simple mantra: Stick to the plan, not your mood. “I do a lot of gym work now. Jacob Templeton is my coach at the SwimFit Squad at UniSC, and he also creates my gym programs. His motivation and challenges help bring out the best in me, fueling my passion for swimming and the gym, as well as my results.”
“Even when I was injured for a long time, I was still coming to the pool. I was just kicking on my back—super boring!—but I wanted to be there because the environment is so good. I didn’t want to miss out on the social side.”
As MSQ celebrates its 50th Anniversary, Lene sees the organisation as a vital framework for health and connection. “The meets are run so professionally, giving us the framework to compete and have fun. It’s a unique sporting environment in that it challenges you competitively but supports you personally, giving every swimmer the chance to find out what they’re truly capable of.”
Lene receiving her award for Female Swimmer of the Meet at the 2025 MSQ State Championships.
Lene winning a Bronze medal in the 50m Butterfly at the 2025 World Aquatics Masters Championships in Singapore.
An inspiring story of family, strength and community.
We are incredibly proud of Clinton Stanley, a valued member of Noosa Masters, and his wonderful family for their outstanding efforts raising funds for Dementia Australia.
Clinton’s commitment to supporting people living with dementia — and honouring his dad — is something truly special. 
His actions truly reflect the spirit of fitness, friendship and fun.
This video is shared in support of Dementia Australia. You can support Clinton’s fundraising efforts here:
fundraising.dementia.org.au/fundraisers/clintonstanley
Well done Clinton — we are so proud of you and your family.
Located in the heart of Brisbane’s arts & entertainment precinct, Rydges South Bank is the perfect base for your Nationals experience. Here’s why:
- Registration hub right in the hotel foyer
- Shuttle bus pick up & drop off point
- Easy walk to the Welcome Function
- Short stroll to the BCEC for the Presentation Function
- Morning coffee sorted at the onsite CBD Café
- Unwind and relive the day’s events at Soleil Pool Bar
Exclusive Offer: Championship attendees can access an exclusive Bed & Breakfast rate!
Book your stay now: https://nats2026.mastersswimmingqld.org.au/venue...
Thank you to @rydgessouthbank for supporting Masters Swimming Queensland in delivering an unforgettable event for swimmers and supporters.
Entries are filling fast for the 2026 MSA National Championships in Brisbane!
Brisbane Aquatic Centre is the place to be this year when swimmers from across the country and the world will hit the water for an unforgettable short‑course showdown. The atmosphere will be buzzing at this world-class venue and with AOE timing system there's sure to be plenty of records broken!
We've hit over 200 entries already and the entries keep rolling in!
MSQ reserves the right to close event entries early if sessions become oversubscribed or the day reaches capacity due to venue time constraints. So don't miss out! Dive in now and secure your place via the MSA website:
https://nats2026.mastersswimmingqld.org.au/
MSQ are excited to highlight Kieser, a valued partner of the 2026 MSA National Championships.
Kieser, can help you reduce pain and build strength with their unique mix of physiotherapy and strength training. Their fully qualified team works closely with you to improve your strength, helping you move more freely so you can continue to enjoy the activities you love. They focus on your long-term health, creating personalised programs to help you lead an active, healthy life. 🏊♂️💪
📍 Onsite at the Championships
The Kieser team will be at the Brisbane Aquatic Centre every day of the Championship pool events, offering:
✨ 10‑minute musculoskeletal screening assessments
✨ Targeted treatment and expert advice
Whether you're chasing a PB or just keeping your body performing at its best, the Kieser team is here to support you throughout Nationals 2026.
We’re excited to share some fantastic news — Education Geographics has joined us as a Silver Sponsor for the 2026 Masters Swimming Australia National Championships and as the Naming Rights Sponsor for the 400m Freestyle.
Education Geographics are experts in demographic analysis for schools, helping education leaders plan, manage and market smarter. Their team of statisticians, demographic profilers and spatial analysts uncover who your families are, what they value, where to find more like them and how best to reach and support them. They turn complex data into clear insights that drive smarter decisions and sustainable growth.
Founder and Executive Chairman, John Black, is a proud member of Element Masters in Queensland who is competing at the Championships and is an avid E1000 swimmer.
We’re thrilled to have Education Geographics’ support as we celebrate 50 years of Masters Swimming in 2026!
Check them out at: https://www.educationgeographics.net.au/
If your business is interested in becoming a sponsor for the 2026 Championships, we’d love to hear from you. Contact Gaby at MSQ at events@mastersswimmingqld.org.au.
