The Informer: Ariarne Titmus wins gold in 400m freestyle, NSW records 145 COVID cases

Those were the words of Launceston-born swimmer Ariarne Titmus moments after winning her first Olympic gold medal on Monday.

Titmus had trailed American Katie Ledecky until the second last lap of the women's 400 metre freestyle.

But Titmus chased her rival down to claim Australia's second gold medal in a thrilling finish.

After the race, 20-year-old Titmus thanked Ledecky.

"I wouldn't be here without her," Titmus said.

"She sets an incredible standard, all credit to her for the swimmer she is.

"I've just been trying to chase her so it's really exciting now that we have this battle going."

And, if you haven't already seen it, check out the incredible celebration by Titmus' coach Dean Boxall.

Back on home soil and there's a very different battle underway.

NSW recorded 145 new coronavirus cases, with Premier Gladys Berejiklian again telling people not to leave their home unless they absolutely have to and not to mingle.

Of the new cases, 51 were in the community for all of their infectious period and 25 were in the community for part of it.

The lockdown for Greater Sydney and four surrounding regions is due to end on Friday, but Ms Berejiklian said some restrictions could be tightened and others eased.

NSW crisis cabinet met on Monday to workshop what restrictions would remain in Sydney over coming months.

The situation is much more hopeful in South Australia and Victoria, with both states expected to announce a path out of lockdown on Tuesday.

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