This article contains references to suicide. If you need help contact Lifeline 13 11 14
BY ALEX DRISCOLL
Head Above Water returns for 2025, with mental health as big an issue as ever
In 2018, Northern Beaches local Andrew ‘Wardy’ Ward found himself needing to look after his mental health. His journey was supported by a strong network of family and friends; however, many others are not so lucky.
This inspired Andrew in 2019 to found Head Above Water a health promotion charity which seeks to build ‘mentally fit’ communities by funding education programs to promote mental fitness and prevent suicide.
While Head Above Water manages and hosts many fundraising events, the biggest event on the calendar is the Head Above Water 24-Hour Swim at Collaroy Rockpool, which is happening from 22 March. The charity has raised over $760,000 to facilitate mental fitness programs since 2019.
“The event is for the community,” Andrew told Peninsula Living Pittwater. “It has such an incredible feel and vibe to it”.
And with up to 45% of Australians likely to suffer from a mental health disorder at some stage of their lives, the goals of this event remain as vital as ever. The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare reported that between 1 January and 31 October 2024, there were 779 suspected deaths by suicide. Rising socio-economic pressures are also exacerbating the already confronting reality of mental health, with Beyond Blue revealing that one in five people’s mental health is highly impacted by the rising cost of living in Australia.
However, Andrew has also noted that more than ever, people are speaking up about mental health: “People feel more comfortable to talk, and it is a real game changer that people are opening up.”
It is because of this that Andrew believes there is a need for collective action, and he encourages as many individuals, teams and families as possible to join in the March event. With the pressures of the cost of living in mind, discounts are being given to families who wish to enter, with the price for a family of four reduced to $99, or $24 a person. For a team of eight, it will only be $20 per person.
Swimmers of all abilities are encouraged to sign up as well, with Collaroy Rockpool divided into four lanes for the event. ‘The Beginner’ lane is for those wanting to have a go but are not the strongest swimmers. ‘The Hack’ is for those who are a little more confident and can swim 20 laps of a 50-metre pool. ‘The Weekend Warrior’ is for competent swimmers who are physically fit, and ‘The Pro’ is for the athletes and competitors looking for something very challenging.
If the swim is not enough, you can also enter the team relay on Sunday morning, with teams of 10 battling it out for several prizes up for grabs. And for those who cannot make it on the day, whether you be a Northern Beaches local or in a different locality entirely, you can also sign up for the remote swim. If you prefer not to swim but want to help out, you can also register as a volunteer or donate to someone you know who is fundraising.
All funds raised will help Head Above Water provide services to men, women, teenagers and children to equip them with mental fitness needed to help manage during the ups and downs of life.
HEAD ABOVE WATER
24-hour swim 22 to 23 March Team relay 23 March Collaroy Rockpool
$99 for families $40 for individuals $20 per team member (use code TEAM2025 at checkout)
Register at: headabovewater.com.au