Magnussen positive after post-surgery wins

James Magnussen has given his post-surgery preparations for Rio a boost, with the Olympic medallist netting gold in the 50m and 100m freestyle at the Victorian Open Championship.

In the 50m, the former world champion out-touched his American training partner, William Copeland (22.57), to grab gold in 22.51 at the Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre on Sunday.

Although Magnussen, who won silver and bronze at the London Games, says his world rivals wouldn't be too worried about his times just yet, he can take confidence from his early efforts after shoulder surgery and a nine-month break from competition.

"I'm hoping to get a swim in Perth and get more racing experience before the lead into (the Olympic) trials," he said.

"I was just 21 years old at the London Olympics and in Rio I'll be 25 and probably at the peak of my career. So I am trying to do everything to get back to my best."

Olympian Alicia Coutts also announced her return to form in Melbourne with a win in the women's 200m individual medley.

She managed to hold off a chase from fellow London Olympic teammate Blair Evans and take first place. Both women were only just off the Olympic A qualifying time of 2:11.39.

In other championship events, Mitch Larkin took the 50m, 100m and 200m backstroke trifecta with his win in the 100m final on Sunday night.

Larkin, who also won the 200m individual medley, was half a length ahead as he touched the wall in 52.85, which was fast enough to set a new Victorian all-comers record.

Georgia Bohl continued her successful run in the women's breaststroke, winning the 50m final ahead of world champion Jennie Johansson and Australian Dolphins member Lorna Tonks.