Brien is the 2014 recipient of the Mick O’Neill Encouragement Award.

The award is presented annually to an up-and-coming Ballarat swimmer in memory of Ballarat Sportsmen’s Club past president Mick O’Neill, who died in 2001. 

O’Neill was also a driving force behind the formation of Ballarat Swimming Club.

The award recognises a young swimmer who demonstrates ability and determination to succeed.

Brien, 12, is a Ballarat Gold Swimming Club member.

He specialises in backstroke and butterfly and over the past year has produced a series of personal bests and medal performances at various levels. 

He competed at the Victorian age championships in December, earning two silver medals and qualifying for the 12-13 year 100m and 200m backstroke at this week’s national age championships.

He also had the distinction of breaking the 100m backstroke country record twice in one day.

Brien was a shining light at the state country championships in January as well, collecting gold medals in the 100m backstroke, 100m butterfly and 100m freestyle, and a bronze in the 100m breaststroke.

This earned him the title of best swimmer for his age group.