Sport
19 October, 2026
Nine-medal haul for Eade
MAREEBA swimmer David Eade has returned from the Northern Territory Country Swimming Championships with some heavy luggage after bringing home eight silver medals as well as a gold.
Eade had an outstanding showing at the recent five-day meet in Darwin, where he picked up gold in the 50m breaststroke and silver in the 400m freestyle, 200m freestyle, 200m individual medley (IM), 100m freestyle, 100m backstroke, 50m freestyle, 50m backstroke, and 50m butterfly.
“It’s very overwhelming and definitely a surprise. I’m very happy with it,” the 27-year-old said.
“I almost can’t believe it – how far I’ve come from surgery a couple of years ago. I thought it was time for me to retire from competing but I’ve been training hard every day, and I’m tired every day, but all that work is worth it.”
Eade is yet to qualify for another State Championships, however, he’ll get another shot when he competes across seven events in Rockhampton early next year.
“I would like to thank TKSS (support service) for everything they’ve supported me through, as well as my coaches June Cotter, Herbie Howard and Lei Tutu at Cairns Central Swimming Club,” he said.
“I want to say thank you to the Central team, as well as my nutritionist in Cairns, Total Physio Mareeba, and Kayleigh for doing the morning classes at Furious Fitness.
“Thanks very much to everyone. They all supported me through everything and helped me to get where I am today.”
Eade has not walked an easy road since undergoing surgery on his feet due a condition known as Foot Deformity. Despite this, the always-cheerful local wanted to spread some words of encouragement.
“I want to tell people out there that if they have a dream, it doesn’t matter how hard it is, just keep going. You’re going to get tired and you’re going to have to put in a lot of hard work, but in the end it’s all going to pay off.”
