The Midlands District duo each returned with bronze medal.

Halliday took third in the girls’ 15-16 year 100m breaststroke multi-class at the eight-day meet.

Leighton shone in the girls’ 17-18 year 50m backstroke multi-class.

Midlands District had a record eight swimmers, all Ballarat Gold members, qualify for the nationals.

Josh Brien, Eloise Hennig, Miette Hopper, Maike Vrij, Matthew Jenkins and Eboney Olver joined Halliday and Leighton at the meet.

They competed in 22 events.

Halliday and Leighton had extremely busy programs.

Halliday’s schedule included 15-16 year multi-class 50m and 100m backstroke, 50m and 100m breaststroke, 50m and 100m freestyle, 50m and 100m butterfly and 200m individual medley.

Leighton contested 17-18 year multiclass 50m and 100m freestyle, 50m and 100m backstroke, and 50m and 100m breaststroke. 

Ballarat Gold president Rodney Henwood said swimming against the best in the country was a fantastic experience for the squad, which included three making their debut at national level.

Head coach Mark Stahl said he was absolutely thrilled by the results.

“It is testament to the strength of the squad and the swimmers’ commitment to the sport and each other.

“This is the biggest contingent we have had qualify for nationals. I am very proud of this young group and look forward to seeing their continued development,” Stahl said.

A team of 30 has been selected from the titles to represent Australia at the world junior championships.