Media Release

KAP Leader and Federal Member for Kennedy Bob Katter has urged Australians to dig deep for drought-affected farmers across the nation by sponsoring his chief-of-staff's 20km Rottnest Channel Swim in Western Australia tomorrow.

“Anne Pleash is swimming solo to raise money for Aussie Helpers, a charity that supports struggling farmers with practical assistance but also provides assistance with stress and anxiety issues," said Mr Katter.

"Aussie Helpers delivers all of their assistance and gives farmers someone to talk to about the very serious situation the industry is facing.”

Ms Pleash will begin the marathon swim at 5:45am tomorrow, Saturday 22 February .

Her support crew includes a skipper, a kayak paddler and feeders - all who will double as her spotters in what can be dangerous conditions.

The crew will also keep a sharp eye out for potentially deadly threats such as dehydration and hypothermia, with Ms Pleash keeping her body fuelled every 20 minutes with sports drinks and carbohydrate gels.

Ms Pleash said she was hoping to complete the swim in better time than last year.
“I’m really looking forward to the wind giving me a push this year, as conditions are forecast to be close to perfect," she said.

“We've raised nearly $3000 for Aussie Helpers so far, and all of that money goes back to our farmers out west in Qld and NSW."

Mr Katter said he had given the support crew some advice on motivational affirmations for Ms Pleash during the swim.

“Nothing motivates someone more to swim a bit faster than yelling out 'shark' every once in a while," he joked.

Ms Pleash said it was not too late to donate and support a very worthy cause.
“Donations can be made by visiting https://give.everydayhero.com/au/anne-pleash - and live updates on my progress will be posted on Mr Katter’s Facebook page  or via his Twitter feed @RealBobKatter" she said.

The Rottnest Channel Swim is one of Australia’s premier ocean events for Australian and international competitors.

Elite swimmers are expected to complete the swim in about 4 hours, with cut-off after 11 hours. Ms Pleash hopes to complete the swim in about 6 hours.