Swimming for life
Narrabeen’s Paul Bailey has certainly had an interesting journey in his 60 years, spanning a 40-year career as an accountant, a decade and a half spent surf lifesaving, and an ongoing battle with mental health.
This vast array of life experience means swimming ten kilometres in the open ocean is somewhat tame in comparison.
Since overcoming a prescription drug addiction, Paul has been conducting long-distance ocean swims to raise money for charity for close to five years.
Recently, he has partnered with Lifeline Northern Beaches to support the vital work the organisation does in the mental health space.
“Lifeline Northern Beaches have been such a great support for me,” Paul explains.
“You’ll find them on the day of the swims, rattling a collection bucket to make sure we get every last dollar in.
“During my time working with Lifeline, it would have to be over $20,000 that we’ve managed to raise for them.
“They’re doing excellent work, and with my history of struggles with mental health, it is a great fit for a charity partner.”
Having suffered from mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety, Paul knows the importance of support services.
He’s experienced the pain of losing people close to him and never takes looking after himself for granted.
“Lifeline is a vital service in the mental health arena. I’ve been through these things myself – and it’s something that most, if not all, people can relate to,” he says.
“I’ve experienced the suicides of two school friends. It’s a topic that affects so many lives and sadly, some lose their battle with their demons.”
Paul is a hard worker, and even now that he is entering his 60s, has no plans to retire from accountancy. The prospect of continuing to swim and raise money for charity is a good motivator, too, he says.
“I’ll probably dial down on work a bit, so my partner and I can do some travelling,” he says.
“But I fully intend to keep working into my 60s, and hopefully, keep swimming, too.”
As much as he is swimming to raise money for some very worthwhile causes, it is only fair that he gets something out of his mammoth efforts as well.
“I must confess that there are some selfish reasons I do the swimming,” he admits.
“It gives me something to work towards – a goal. It’s a great feeling of achievement at the end, knowing I put in the hard work and all that effort has paid off.”
Paul brings a philosophical perspective to everything that’s happened in his life so far and is keen to take advantage of new challenges and opportunities going forward.
He does not give up easily, and this has held him in good stead throughout his many experiences.
“I’ve gained some wisdom over my years. As far as I know, we are only given one chance at life, so I try to make the most of every day.”
If you or someone you know are in need of support, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.
David Shilovsky
