Maddison Keeney mid-dive. Photo: Noelle Bobrige. Source: News Corp Australia

Keeney claimed the 1m crown when she conquered a high quality field with a score of 298.55 points. Glasgow Commonwealth Games 3m gold medallist Esther Qin finished second with 284.15 while 15-year-old Georgia Sheehan was third with 265.40.

“I’m pretty happy with how I went,’’ Keeney said. “I’ve had a few days off in the last couple of weeks and have not trained as much as usual because of a shoulder injury.

“The shoulder is painful even when I am not diving and after the nationals I’ll take a break.’’

Keeney’s prime target at the championships is the 3m title which starts today. The final will be contested on Sunday and it looms as an intriguing competition.

London Olympian and former national champion Anabelle Smith is among the entries, adding more spice to the battle for the gold medal.