Swim for Starlight

2020’s Starlight Super Swim is encouraging Australians to make a positive splash to help the Starlight Children’s Foundation brighten the lives of seriously ill and hospitalised children.

Between 26 January and 24 February 2020, Starlight Super Swimmers will join a fundraising community of thousands as they attempt to beat personal swimming goals and replicate the success of this year’s inaugural event, which raised more than $400,000 for the charity.

All participants are welcome regardless of age and fitness level. Swimmers can complete a swim in their home pool, at the beach or at their local aquatic centre. Participants can track the distance they’ve swum, encouraging friends and family to show their support and donate for every kilometre or lap swum. Throughout the challenge, participants will be continuously supported with fundraising and training tips and will be rewarded for their fundraising efforts with branded merchandise and other prize incentives.

Funds will support Starlight’s hospital services including Captain Starlight and Starlight Express Rooms, which are available in every children’s hospital in Australia, seven days a week, for sick kids and their families.

“Starlight Express Rooms create such a positive and happy atmosphere for kids in hospitals,” said Starlight ambassador and Olympic medallist Libby Trickett.

“Inside the rooms they get to be a kid again and that deserves to have as much help and support as it possibly can. They say laughter is the best medicine and Captain Starlights definitely provide that to hospitalised kids every single day.”

Over the last two years, Starlight has seen a 26% increase in visits to its 10 Starlight Express Rooms nationally.

“With just $39, we can provide a sick child with access to our Starlight Express Room. Every dollar is invaluable to keep our programs running daily in every children’s hospital nationally,” Starlight CEO Louise Baxter said.

“Our 2020, Starlight Super Swim Challenge aims to raise $600,000 to help more than 15,000 sick kids around Australia. Starlight’s vision is that everyone has a happy childhood because what happens in childhood lasts a lifetime and happiness matters, especially when it comes to improving health outcomes,” Baxter said.

Registrations open in November 2019 and continue through to February 2020, with participants able to complete their swim challenge anytime throughout the event time frame.

To participate in the Starlight Super Swim as an individual, as a squad or via a kids’ swim school, sign up at www.superswim.org.au.