Big Scary River Swim for Special Schools

Since 2018, I've embarked on an annual solo endurance swim challenge, each one more challenging and a bit scarier than the last. This year's challenge has me particularly apprehensive: I aim to be the first person to conquer the 27km stretch of the Maroochy River, known for its formidable bull sharks!

I'm Brendan Neil, and for the past 16 years, I've dedicated myself to raising funds and awareness for the incredible children and families of the Sunshine Coast's Special Schools. My efforts have largely revolved around the annual "Island Charity Swim." However, in 2018, my journey took a serious turn when I found myself in a hospital bed, facing the prospect of missing what would have been my 10th year participating in the Island Swim. It was then that I realized I needed to find greater purpose and make more impact in my life. A few months later, I resolved to swim the 11km course 10 times in 10 days, commemorating what would have been my 10th year in the event.

This year, I've invited some truly inspiring friends to join me for the final 7km of my river swim. They are exceptional swimmers who continue to amaze me: Paul Gockel, a former para-Olympian with spina bifida; his wife, Kerry-Lee (known as the Wingless Warrior), born without arms; and my friend Wayne Warren, who is partially quadriplegic and navigates the world in a wheelchair. Crossing the finish line with these three legends further illustrates that we all have the ability to make significant positive contributions to our community.

Money raised goes to the Island Charity Swim, which splits donations evenly between the three schools. This year Palmview plan to purchase a bus to take students on community outings, Currimundi and Nambour plan to continue adding to their sensory playgrounds which enable more students to get outside and play regardless of their unique physical challenges.

My hope is that you, too, will feel empowered to do more for your community after witnessing the incredible feats of my mates, who triumph over what many of us would consider insurmountable obstacles. Together, we can all make a difference.

Brendan Neil