The 18-year-old travelled to Adelaide last month for the Australian Age Championships – and didn’t disappoint anyone.

Bruce qualified for the prestigious meeting after swimming a personal best (PB) time at the NSW State Age Championships in the 100m breaststroke, in January.

“I was very excited as I always wanted to go interstate to compete,” she said.

“I made the Australian Age and the Australian Open Championships in 2015, which were both held in Sydney at the Olympic Park Aquatic Centre.

“That was great but I’m glad that I got the chance to go to Adelaide, especially as this is the last year that I can qualify for the Australian Age.”

On the day Bruce didn’t quite manage a PB but enjoyed the experience anyway.

“There were so many talented swimmers there and the SA Aquatic Centre is a really nice venue,” she said.

The teenager moved to Bathurst in February.

She is attending Charles Sturt University, where she is studying criminal justice.

“I’m really liking uni and my course is very interesting,” she acknowledged.

“I’ve got a job too, so life is pretty hectic.”

It’s been a great 18 months for Bruce.

On Australia Day, she received the Sports Star of the Year award in Murrurundi after being nominated by the Scone Amateur Swimming Club for her achievements last year. 

“I’ve loved being a member of the club,” she said.

“We have some good female swimmers, such as my former training partner Ebony Taylor.

“And, now, it’s great to see some young boys coming though who are showing a lot of promise as well.

“The club’s in a terrific place.”