Glenn Sterle (WA, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

On a brighter note, it gives me great pleasure to rise to share two minutes worth of happiness with the chamber. As most Western Australians know, this weekend is Telethon Weekend. What is also happening this weekend is that, on Sunday 22 October, Andy Donaldson, a three-time world-record-holding swimmer from Perth, will swim from Rottnest Island to Elizabeth Quay to raise money for youth mental health and the telethon institute. In July 2023, Andy made history by becoming the first person ever to complete the Oceans Seven—the world's seven toughest channel swims—within the space of one year. His fundraising effort this weekend involves swimming 20 kilometres from Rottnest Island to Leighton Beach. When he arrives at Leighton Beach, Andy will be met by the Premier, Roger Cook, and they will run together from Leighton Beach to Mosman Bay. Joining them on the run will also be David Mundy, Dr Kirsty Bellombra and Jason Rhine. They'll also be met by the Fremantle nippers from the Fremantle Surf Lifesaving Club, and then they'll be back in the water at Mosman Bay and will swim to Elizabeth Quay. All up, Andy will cover 33 kilometres to get from Rottnest to Elizabeth Quay.

As with all fundraising ventures, none of this could be achieved without the contribution and support of many volunteers. I particularly thank and give a big shout-out to my mate Bob Kucera, who has kindly volunteered to provide and skipper the support vessel that will be with Andy throughout the crossing from Rottnest to Leighton Beach.

Andy's Swim for Telethon is aiming to raise $33,000, which will be used specifically to improve outcomes for youth mental health. Not only is Andy Donaldson an incredible athlete; he plans to keep swimming to raise money and awareness of ocean health, climate change and other important causes. Andy's swim this weekend also marks the return of the out-of-event solo crossings from Rottnest to Fremantle. Good luck, Andy and crew.

Karen Grogan (SA, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Thank you for that spark of joy, Senator Sterle.