WA laps up community support for men’s health fundraiser
A charity swimathon for men’s mental health organised by Mens Talk Au has raised $226,609, smashing previous records and establishing the event as one of Western Australia’s most successful community swimathons.
“This year’s record-breaking success highlighted the event's power to inspire, connect, and make a tangible difference in countless lives,” said Mens Talk Au CEO Paul Litwin.
As well as the enormous community support, Swim for Life 24 was sponsored by the City of Stirling, which entered two teams.
The City’s nine-hour relay team – the Aqua Jets – included Stirling Mayor Mark Irwin and CEO Stevan Rodic.
“It’s good to dive head-first into a challenge every now and then, and this is such a worthy cause to support,” said Mayor Irwin.
“Men should feel comfortable talking about their mental health and sharing how they’re feeling because it doesn’t just benefit them – it benefits the men around them as well.
“I like what the team at Mens Talk are doing, and I’m happy to give the Swim for Life a crack to support them.”
The swimathon, which included a 24-hour relay starting at 5pm on Saturday, 23 November, and a nine-hour relay beginning at 8am on Sunday, 24 November, took place at the refurbished Terry Tyzak Aquatic Centre, followed by a community fun day.
The Rotary Club of Karrinyup made a $ 3,000 donation, and Men's Health Downunder took up one of the $1000 available partnerships.
During the event, a young man visited the Mens Talk AU stall and shared his struggles with mental health and suicidal ideation. Team members immediately connected him to the Blue Mind Place in Scarborough.
“Together, we will continue to make waves for men's mental health, creating a stronger, more connected community,” said Mr Litwin, looking ahead to 2025’s swimathon.
Donations can still be made to Mens Talk Au here.