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Cook Shire Council and the Cooktown Swimming Pool are calling on the community to dive in for a great cause this March by joining Laps for Life, a national swimming challenge raising funds and awareness for youth mental health.
With one in four young Australians experiencing mental health challenges, Laps for Life provides vital funding for prevention, crisis intervention, and support services. The initiative is especially critical in regional and remote communities, where stigma and isolation can make it even harder for young people to reach out for help. Tragically, suicide remains the leading cause of death for young Australians aged 15-24[1].
Cook Shire Mayor Robyn Holmes said, “In close-knit, regional and remote communities like ours, the stigma around youth mental health can be even greater, stopping young people from reaching out for help when they need it most. Laps for Life sends a powerful message that no one is alone.”
“In close-knit, regional and remote communities like ours, the stigma around youth mental health can be even greater, stopping young people from reaching out for help when they need it most. Laps for Life sends a powerful message that no one is alone.”
Led by Cook Shire Council Chief Executive Officer Brian Joiner, the Cooktown Swimming Pool team is aiming to have the biggest participation in the region.
“Laps for Life is a fantastic way to stay active, support mental health, and be part of something bigger,” said Mr. Joiner. “We want to see as many people as possible joining our team, whether you swim one lap or 100, every lap can help save a young life.”
By taking part in Laps for Life, the Cooktown Swimming Pool team is not only raising funds but also breaking down barriers that prevent young people from seeking help. This challenge is more than just swimming—it’s about coming together as a community to support youth mental health and show that no one has to face their struggles alone. Now is the time to dive in, take action, and make a difference. Here’s how you can get involved:
- Join the team: Swim at your own pace and log your laps throughout March.
- Donate: Support the team and help raise funds for youth mental health services.
- Encourage others to join: Challenge your friends, family, and colleagues to participate!
Sign up to swim or donate at: https://www.lapsforlife.com.au/fundraisers/cooktownswimmingpool
For those looking to prepare and train ahead of the challenge, the Cooktown Swimming Pool is offering a 9-session Senior Sunday Swim Squad pass, encouraging swimmers aged 16+ to stay active, build confidence, and connect with others. Please visit or call the Pool on 4069 6928 to arrange your Sunday Swim Squad pass.
For more information contact Cook Shire Council via email to mail@cook.qld.gov.au or by phoning 4082 0500.
Picture above: Making a splash for a great cause, Cooktown Pool attendant Francisca Mesa Greciet puts Cook Shire Council CEO Brian Joiner through his paces as he preps for Laps for Life fundraising at the Cooktown Pool.
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[1] Australian Institute of Health and Welfare: Suicide and Self-Harm Monitoring