Sunshine Coast's rising star, Nellie Pocock, is making a big splash in the pool and on the cross-country track. This grade six student from Noosaville State School has set numerous records and achieved top finishes, making her a young athlete to watch.
Breaking Records
Since starting her competitive journey in 2021, Nellie has broken several records, including:
- Noosa District Records:100m freestyle: 1:08.90
50m freestyle: 30.87
100m backstroke: 1:25.75 - Regional Records:100m freestyle: 1:06.98
50m freestyle: 30.36
Wide Bay long course 400m freestyle: 5:16.74
Nellie is proud of her achievements, saying, “It feels good and I’m definitely proud of myself. Some of those records have been there since 2004, so to break them and set my own is quite special.”
Excelling in Multiple Sports
Nellie also excels in cross country, training with Race Pace Coaching. Her recent accomplishments include:
- District age champion
- Third at regionals
- Fifth at states
- 24th at nationals
She also finished second at the state aquathlon championships and first in her age group at the national championships in Perth.
Family Fun
Despite her competitive edge, Nellie loves having fun and enjoys friendly rivalries with her brothers. “The medals and times are cool but beating them is also fun,” she said. “They both do great in their sports too, but I would say I’m the fastest swimmer.”
Coach’s Perspective
Eumundi Aquatic Centre swim coach, Andy Muller, is excited about Nellie’s future. “Nellie is still a little kid and that’s one of the most important things we look at when we’re in the pool,” he said. “She loves playing around but she’s set a great platform in the pool which will help her as she gets older.”
As Nellie prepares for the Australian All Schools swimming titles on the Gold Coast in July, the Sunshine Coast community is cheering her on!

