Annabelle Grey and Lani Summerfield both broke Steph Cooke’s records. Photo: Supplied.
Two students at Temora’s St Anne’s Catholic College have broken long-standing swimming records at their annual carnival set by their own local MP more than three decades ago.
Annabelle Gray smashed the 13 years 50 metre butterfly record last month previously set by Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke in 1990, with a blistering time of 33.76 seconds.
It’s the fifth time Annabelle has wiped Ms Cooke’s name off the board, having already claimed her records in the 50 m backstroke, 50 m freestyle, 100 m freestyle and 200 m individual medley.
Meanwhile, her colleague Lani Summerfield claimed the politician’s 50 m butterfly and 50 m freestyle titles.
Ms Cooke, who excelled at swimming when she was at school, was not at all disappointed to see her records gone.
“I couldn’t be happier to see my name taken off that board,” Ms Cooke said.
“These girls are absolutely sensational in the pool, and there is something very special about watching future generations go further and faster than you ever did.
“Records are meant to be broken, and the way Annabelle and Lani have achieved these results shows just how much talent and determination are coming through our regional schools.”
Joes group students enjoy the carnival. Photo: Facebook.
Principal Louise Grant said the carnival showcased the incredible spirit of St Anne’s students.
“At St Anne’s Catholic College, swimming is more than just a sport – it’s a showcase of skill, determination, and school pride,” Mrs Grant said.
“Students demonstrate remarkable strength and technique in the pool, pushing themselves to achieve personal bests while proudly representing their colour house.
“With cheers echoing from the sidelines, each race is filled with enthusiasm, teamwork, and an inspiring sense of community spirit.”
Ms Cooke still holds five records, including the 11 years, 12 years, 14 years, and 15 years 50 m breaststroke.
“I’ve already told the girls that it’s all about those breaststroke records next year,” Ms Cooke said.
“I just can not wait to see both students continue to excel in a sport that’s quite close to my heart.”
Records broken at the 2026 swimming carnival
Evie Smith – 10 yrs 200 m IM
Previously: Rylee Overs (5:14.63, 2025)
New Record: 4:26.10
Skyla Morton – 11 yrs 200 m IM
Previously: Elvie Crawford (4:32.52, 2025)
New Record: 4:28.20
Logan Bell – 13 yrs 200 m IM
Previously: Joey Cotton (4:25.25, 2025)
New Record: 3:56.98
Annabelle Gray – 13 yrs
50 m Freestyle – 31.86s (Prev: 33.22s, 2025)
50 m Backstroke – 38.10s (Prev: 41.12s, 1999)
100 m Freestyle – 1:12.18 (Prev: 1:17.07, 1999)
200 m IM – 3:05.34 (Prev: 4:02.18, 2025)
50 m Butterfly – 33.76s (Prev: 37.34s, 1990)
Hunter Connellan – 13 yrs 50 m Butterfly
New Record: 33.76s (Prev: 37.34s, 1990)
Lani Summerfield – 16 yrs
50 m Freestyle – 32.40s (Prev: 32.98s, 2002)
50 m Butterfly – 36.66s (Prev: 38.87s, 2002)
Adelaide Gaynor – 17+ yrs 100 m Freestyle
New Record: 1:28.63
Jacob Durham – 17+ yrs
50 m Backstroke – 41.39s (Prev: 45.09s, 2024)
50 m Breaststroke – 49.81s (Prev: 50.18s, 2024)
Age champions
8 Years – Ned Smith & Lilly Bickham
9 Years – Connor Jones & Isla Pike
10 Years – Spencer Lynch & Evie Smith
11 Years – Chad O’Connor & Skyla Morton
12 Years – Bailey Piggot & Elvie Crawford
13 Years – Logan Bell & Annabelle Gray
14 Years – Joey Cotton & Anna Chalmers
15 Years – Hunter Connellan & Georgie O’Connor
16 Years – Lani Summerfield & Henry Prentice
17+ Years – Jacob Durham & Matilda Reardon
