Champion open water and marathon swimmer Andrew (Andy) Donaldson will be supporting research to improve outcomes for youth mental health and suicide prevention when he swims 33kms from Rottnest Island to Perth’s Elizabeth Quay on 22 October.

In July, Andy made history by becoming the first person ever to complete the Oceans Seven, the world’s seven toughest channel swims, within the space of one year.

During his campaign, he broke three world records. He also won the Rottnest Channel Swim in 2021.

The new challenge he has set himself for Telethon aims to raise $33,000 to support research led by WA’s Perron Institute into alternative treatments for young people suffering from depression.

Depressive disorders are among the leading causes of illness among adolescents, but in about fifty percent of young patients, standard treatment such as medication is not effective.

The multidisciplinary research team at the Perron Institute is investigating emerging alternative treatments that have the potential to deliver long-term benefits to young people.

Scottish-born Andy, now living in Perth, has shared his own experiences with mental health, and how swimming and other sport has helped him overcome these challenges.

“Supporting youth mental health is a cause close to my heart,” Andy Donaldson said.

“It’s a great opportunity to combine sport with purpose.

“It’s exciting to bring people together for the journey, with the aim of improving mental health outcomes for the community.”

Departing Rottnest at 6am, Andy will swim across to Leighton Beach arriving at approximately 11am. From there he will undertake a 3km run across to Swan Canoe Club, Mosman Bay where he will get back in the water and make his way up the Swan River, arriving at Elizabeth Quay at approximately 3pm, and then heading to RAC Arena.

Find out more at andyswim.com.au