Running a half marathon on land is no small feat, but Radford College Secondary School Maths and Science Teacher and Collegian (Class of 2014), Mr Liam Braithwaite, took it a step further last weekend. Liam swam 21.1 kilometres on Saturday, raising money for the Starlight Children’s Foundation.

Involved at the College for nearly ten years, Liam couldn’t imagine one of his students or their families going through a serious illness without proper support. Liam’s connection to the cause also runs deep—when he was a child, his cousin spent significant time in hospital in a life-threatening situation. "My cousin, who is a legend, spent a lot of time in hospital when she was little, and it was touch and go. No one should have to go through that. While Starlight can't change the medical situation, it can do kind things to brighten that time.”

The Starlight Foundation believes every child deserves a happy childhood, even when faced with serious illness. By encouraging play, creativity and social connection, they bring joy to children and their families during some of the toughest times.

Liam's dedication to the cause has touched many, including students and parents who personally thanked him for his efforts after last year’s swim, having benefited from the funds he raised. This encouragement motivated Liam to dive back into the pool for Starlight’s Super Swim challenge again this year. “I see the Starlight Super Swim as a win-win,” Liam explains.

“I get to push myself with each lap, improving my well-being and fitness. I'm supported by my wonderful friends, family and the Radford community, and together, we raise money to bring joy to people at their lowest."

Liam was surrounded by support during this year’s 21.1 km swim. His mother, former Radford College Assistant Principal of Curriculum Ms Lindy Braithwaite, and Director of Service Learning and Round Square Coordinator, Ms Kath Notley, came by to offer moral support. He was joined in the pool at various points by Head of Year 9 Mrs Rebecca Hunter, Secondary School Teacher Ms Sam Lonsdale, Collegian Mr Ollie Lonsdale (Class of 2024) and brother-in-law Mr Ross Waddington (Class of 2012). His wife, Mrs Taylor Braithwaite (née Woodward, Class of 2015), joined him for the final 1.1 km, and they swam the last 100 metres together.

Reflecting on the day, Liam said the swim went better than he had hoped. “I started off strong, completing around seven kilometres in the first two hours, but by the time I hit 16 km, my body was really feeling it. It took a big push to reach the 20 km point—my lungs were starting to give out. But with some great company by my side, I got it done. I felt pretty chuffed when I finished and looked at my watch and realised, I’d swam faster than I expected.”

At the time of writing, Liam had raised almost $1,500, surpassing his initial goal of $1,000. "It would be amazing to beat last year’s $2,200, but I’m not sure I’ll quite get there. That said, last year they mentioned that 'just $39 can bring happiness to a sick child in the hospital.' So knowing we’ve already helped nearly 40 children this year makes me feel pretty stoked."

You can support Liam’s Starlight Super Swim fundraising efforts by donating to his page here.