When the eighth annual Head Above Water 24-Hour Swimathon takes over Collaroy Rockpool on 14–15 March 2026, it will mark more than another community fundraiser. It will represent a sustained, grassroots effort to build mental fitness and reduce suicide across Australia – led by a familiar name to many in the print sector.
Head Above Water was founded by Andrew ‘Wardy’ Ward, a well-known figure in the print industry and a sales leader at Konica Minolta, alongside a group of close friends. The initiative began as a response to the high rate of suicide on Sydney’s Northern Beaches and the mental health challenges affecting families and workplaces alike.
Since its launch in 2019, the Swimathon has raised more than $880,000, delivered 2,239 workshops, and reached 41,715 participants through mental fitness and suicide prevention programs locally and nationally. This year, the organisation is aiming to pass the $1 million milestone.
“As we enter our eighth year, I’m still blown away by the support we get from the community for the swim and couldn’t be prouder of the positive impact we’ve had delivering mental fitness programs to over 41,000 people across Australia,” Ward said. “Raising one million dollars was always our first big donation target, and I think this is the year we’re going to do it.”
The 2026 Swimathon will begin at 9am on Saturday 14 March and conclude at 9am on Sunday 15 March at Collaroy Rockpool. Four lanes will cater for all swimming abilities, allowing participants to swim as many – or as few – laps as they choose.
Individuals can raise funds through personal sponsorship pages, while teams are encouraged to amplify their impact. On the Sunday morning from 9:15am, teams of 10 can compete in relay events for some friendly rivalry and year-long bragging rights on the beaches.
For those unable to attend in person, the remote swim option again opens the event to supporters interstate and overseas. Participants simply register, raise funds, swim at their local pool, and share their involvement online.
Volunteers also play a critical role in delivering the event, assisting with set-up and pack-down, swim marshalling, water safety, registration and community barbeque activities.
Recognised impact
In recognition of its growing national reach, Head Above Water has received a $20,000 Community Grant from the CommBank Staff Foundation for the second consecutive year. The funding provides additional support for the organisation’s mental fitness workshops and education programs.
While the Swimathon has strong local roots, its mission resonates far beyond the Northern Beaches. For many in the print and broader business community, it is a reminder that mental health is not separate from the workplace – it is part of it.
The print industry is known for its resilience, camaraderie and strong community ties. Ward’s leadership in establishing Head Above Water reflects those same values, channelled into practical programs that equip people with tools to better manage stress, build connection and seek help when needed.
As the 2026 event approaches, the focus is clear: close the gap to $1 million and continue expanding access to mental fitness education across Australia.
For industry colleagues, customers and partners looking to support a cause with a direct connection to print, the message is simple – dive in, donate, volunteer or spread the word.
To sign up for the swim, or remote swim, click here.
And for anyone who wants to donate directly, click here.