A rising Launceston swimming star with an impressive record of state and national success has been named the 2025 recipient of the City of Launceston's Ariarne Titmus Swimming Scholarship.
Sage Bassano, a member of the South Esk Swimming Club, will be presented with the scholarship today at the City of Launceston Leisure & Aquatic Centre by Mayor Matthew Garwood and scholarship selection panel members Councillors Susie Cai and Andrew Palmer.
Sage, 12, has already delivered standout performances at the highest levels of junior competition. Earlier this year she claimed gold at the School Sport Australia Championships in Brisbane, swimming the anchor leg of the girls' 13-19 years timed relay as Captain's Choice - a remarkable achievement against older competitors.
At state level, Sage was crowned Tasmanian 400m freestyle champion in the 12-13 years age group at the Long Course Championships in March, while also finishing runner-up in the 200m freestyle and third in the 200m backstroke. She has since been selected for the 2025 Junior State Development Squad, recognised as a Gold Qualifier in the Phoenix JX Programme, and recently broke the Launceston Church Grammar School 100m freestyle record for her age group. She is also the regional champion in the 100m backstroke.
Mayor Matthew Garwood said Sage's achievements, resilience and leadership made her a standout recipient.
"Sage is an exceptional young athlete whose results already place her among Tasmania's most promising swimmers," Mayor Garwood said.
"What makes her particularly impressive is not just what she's achieved, but how she goes about it - with discipline, generosity towards her teammates, and a determination that reflects the values of this scholarship."
The City of Launceston's Ariarne Titmus Swimming Scholarship supports young swimmers who demonstrate commitment, coachability, resilience and strong club spirit, with the potential to excel on the national stage. The scholarship covers one year of swim club registration fees and full membership at the City of Launceston Leisure & Aquatic Centre.
Councillor Palmer said the quality of applications this year was exceptionally high.
"The selection panel was incredibly impressed by the calibre of applicants," Cr Palmer said.
"Every young swimmer who applied demonstrated outstanding dedication to their sport and community, and we sincerely thank and congratulate them all on their efforts."
Cr Cai said the scholarship was about backing young people who worked hard, lifted others around them, and believed in what they could achieve.
"We're proud to support Sage as she continues her journey and represents Launceston on the national stage," Cr Cai sad.
The Ariarne Titmus Swimming Scholarship honours the Launceston-born Olympic champion by investing in the next generation of local talents, and is awarded annually by the City of Launceston to a young swimmer living in the municipality who exemplifies excellence, resilience and community spirit.
