Sinkers Smash Starlight Super Swim

The North Mackay Sinkers have hit $11,315 over three years of super swim February.

The North Mackay Sinkers have proven that a small regional club can make a big national impact, taking part in the Starlight Super Swim for the third year running. The Sinkers have officially reached a remarkable $11,315 in total fundraising, helping brighten the lives of sick kids across Australia.

What began as a handful of swimmers giving February “a bit of purpose” has grown into one of the club’s most meaningful annual traditions.

The challenge invites swimmers to track their laps and swim mighty distances in order to fundraise for Starlight Children’s Foundation, a charity dedicated to bringing joy to children in hospital. For many little ones, hospital admission is frightening, isolating, and overwhelming. Starlight works to change that, with volunteer visits bringing laughter, distraction, and moments of joy into the toughest days of a child’s life.

For the Sinkers, supporting Starlight has become more than a fundraiser.

“It’s a way to give back, to swim with purpose, and to connect our club values with something bigger than ourselves,” said club Vice President, Dan Stampa.

“The Super Swim has become a fixture on our calendar because it reflects who we are: a community minded club that believes in showing up for others.”

The 2026 campaign has been one of our strongest yet, with the team raising $3,905 and swimming 127 km as of early March. Led by standout fundraising efforts from Lesley Thorpe ($2,617) and strong contributions from Daniel Stampa, Sue de Meer and Steve Burchill the Sinkers have once again shown what a committed Masters club can achieve when it rallies behind a cause.

Our swimmers have also pushed themselves in the pool and open water, with Daniel Stampa leading the distance tally at 59,600 metres, followed by Steve, Sue and Lesley— each adding their own kilometres to the collective effort.

The North Mackay Sinkers would like to thank every swimmer, donor, supporter, and cheer squad member who has helped them reach this incredible three year total.

Contributed with thanks to The North Mackay Sinkers.

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1 - Stephen Duffie, Colin McPherson, Mark Walz, Sue McPherson & Sally McGlashan

2- Masters Swimming Qld President Susanne Milenkevich from Brisbane addressed swimmers after the events concluded.

3- Swimmers gathered for a collective photo after a great day of swimming

4 - The Ladies in particular were happy to be dressed in red for the Love of Swimming Theme

5 - All events rely on fabulous volunteers, John Barrett (Left) was Chief Referee and our electronic timing was supplied and operated by Kerri Brands from the Pioneer Dolphins Swimming Club. Photos supplied

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