Super Swim star at Fleurieu Aquatic Centre

Fleurieu Aquatic Centre member, Andrew Weatherill, stepped out of the pool last Friday (24 February) proud in the knowledge that he had achieved his goal of swimming 50 kilometres across the month.

The significance of Andrew’s effort is born in the fact that he was taking part in the Super Swim Challenge to raise funds for the Starlight Children's Foundation. Andrew set his original fundraising goal at $500 but was overwhelmed by the support shown by the local community that resulted in his current tally sitting at $1225 – 245 percent of his goal.

“Support for my challenge means a great deal to me because it makes a real difference for sick kids,” he said.

“Every minute of every day a sick child is admitted to hospital in Australia. Serious childhood illness can turn their whole life upside down, causing them to miss out on spending time with their family, building friendships, going to school and just living their life. Starlight supports sick kids in some of their toughest times and positively changes their healthcare experience.”

"This is a cause that deserves as much support as possible. Starlight helps sick kids forget they're sick for a while and re-discover the joy of childhood.”

“My wife and I are very fortunate to have two healthy and happy children and it’s the least I can do to help out those less fortunate. This challenge also helped me during recovery from recent mental health challenges by providing me with a goal, purpose and sense of achievement. There’s nothing like a stint of 480 laps of a 25m pool to work on mindfulness,” said Mr Weatherall.

The Super Swim challenge is for all ages and all fitness levels. Challengers can choose their own distance and fundraising goal, and can participate as an individual, or as part of a team.

The Starlight Foundation’s mission is ‘To brighten the lives of seriously ill children and their families’ and Fleurieu Aquatic Centre manager, James Lomax, said that Andrew’s dedication to this cause has inspired many at the centre.

“The centre and local community really got behind Andrew as he embarked on this swim challenge and the results speak for themselves. He’s an inspiration and he swam sessions lasting over four hours to reach his goal,” said Mr Lomax.

For more details of Andrew’s achievement or to donate visit https://superswim.org.au/andrew-weatherill or contact Fleurieu Aquatic Centre.