BUSSELTON ALLSPORTS INC.

Busselton Jetty Swim is organised by 23 local community members of the not-for-profit association, Busselton Allsports Inc.

Our Vision:

To inspire people of all abilities to swim.

Our Purpose:

To deliver an outstanding event which provides participants with a sense of achievement and wellbeing while creating joy and connecting with the whole community.

Key Objectives:

  • Participation:  To ensure that as many people of all abilities are inspired and have the opportunity to swim in a quality event.
  • Community: The event retains a strong community focus and continues to provide significant benefits to Busselton and surrounding areas.
  • Sustainability: The Busselton Jetty Swim Committee continues to adopt contemporary governance and management practices to ensure the long-term success and sustainability of the event.

Executive Committee Members

Organising Committee 1

Kat Rafferty
President

Kat lives in West Busselton and as an Accountant was a natural fit for taking on the Treasurer’s role three years ago. Kat sits on both the Busselton Jetty Swim committee and Busselton Allsports Inc. Executive Committee. Kat spends her spare time participating in Triathlons, travelling, camping, mountain biking, spending training and social moments with friends.

Kat was honoured when asked by Jenny Higgins if she would consider taking up Treasurer’s position. Whilst Kat jumped at the opportunity to support the event, she has since found what a dynamic committee they are and how they have created a hugely successful and popular event.

Kat has participated twice in the Jetty Swim as a solo, once as One Mile Swim To Shore leg and twice as a team. Kat enjoys being part of this iconic event and is thrilled to be a part of the continuing success and finds volunteering with the event more rewarding than competing.

Organising Committee 2

Brian Rabaud
Vice President

Brian from West Busselton has been a committee member of Busselton Allsports Inc. for two years but actively involved with the Busselton Jetty Swim for many years. As a Crane Rigging Supervisor working at the Gorgon Gas Plant on Barrow Island, he is able to contribute his knowledge of risk and logistics to the event. Brian is involved with the planning of the event; the swim course set up and equipment management.

Brian’s interests include running, bike riding (mountain/road), triathlons and hockey. He offered to join the Busselton Jetty Swim committee to give something back to the community and as it is a great committee to be involved with. Brian has swum around the Jetty on numerous occasions participating in various open water swims over the years.

Organising Committee 3

Natalie Metcalfe
Secretary

Natalie Metcalfe moved to Busselton in April 2021 and is a very enthusiastic open water swimmer. The Busselton Jetty Swim is her favourite open water swim of the year and recognises that it is an iconic community based swimming event. Natalie’s appreciation of how much hard work goes in to running the event each year inspired her to want to help thus joining the committee.

As a local Geographe resident, and mother of three primary school aged children who attend GMAS, her free time is spent enjoying life with her children, bush walking, going to the beach, arranging play dates and playing sports.

As a Chartered Accountant currently working as a senior analyst with Deloitte specialising in industry superannuation fund taxation advice, Natalie will bring her expertise and knowledge to support the committee.

Natalie looks forward to swimming her third Jetty Swim in 2022.

Organising Committee 4

Kathy Pettit
Treasurer

Kathy’s profile coming soon.

Organising Committee 5

Jordan Palk
One Mile Swim to Shore

Jordan joined the committee in 2018 after taking part in a community based event that he had previously taken part in, having swum the Jetty Swim twice. Living in Kealy and working as a General Manager of a holiday resort, Jordan assists the committee with the management of the social media campaign.

Jordan was also an integral part of the inaugural One Mile Swim To Shore leg of the swim introduced at the 2019 event. Jordan managed the operations of the event and the delivery on the day, catering to 500 excited swimmers as they took to the water.

When Jordan isn’t working, he enjoys watching AFL and designing lego creations.

Organising Committee 4

Emma Brentnall-Sarchet
Team Swim

Emma jumped on board with the committee in 2022, but her volunteering journey kicked off back in 2016. She loves being part of the event, and connecting with the local community, even if you won’t find her in the water!

 

As the Team Swim Coordinator for the Busselton Jetty Swim, Emma’s goal is to create a fun and friendly atmosphere for all swimmers, no matter their swim level. With a background as a school P&C secretary and lots of event management experience in both Australia and England, she’s got the skills to help keep things organised and keeping things running smoothly.

 

Emma loves the outdoors, and outside of her committee duties, you’ll find her reading, hiking, exploring new spots, and soaking up the sun at the beach.

Committee Members

Organising Committee 7

Ross Bromell
Life member and Event MC

Ross lives in Busselton with his wife Pat who is also a keen Busselton Jetty Swim volunteer. He paddled a kayak as a volunteer safety person as part of the 1998 Jetty Swim, and from 1999 onwards became involved on the organisational side.

He likes to describe himself as a keen land-based open water swimmer! He has never swum around the Jetty, but loves seeing the satisfaction that people of varying abilities get from completing the circumnavigation of one of Western Australia’s most recognised structures.

A former manager of the Busselton Jetty, for the past 15 years Ross and Pat have been taking small group tours to Italy, France and Spain.

Ross is best known for his voice as for many years he has been on the microphone on Swim day, for the last few years in tandem with fellow committee member, Sinan Kerimofski.

Ross enjoys paddling his kayak and gardening. He loves being part of the Busselton Jetty Swim as it is a homegrown event organised by a great team that has fun.

Organising Committee 8

Sinan Kerimofski
Life member and Event MC

Sinan or Sinch to many who know him is from Busselton and is the Principal at Vasse Primary School. Sinch enjoys fishing and all sports and first joined the Busselton Allsports Inc. committee 16 years ago and has been heavily involved ever since. He joined the event committee to support a community event, for the friendship and company of a great committee. Plus as a non-swimmer he wanted to be involved in another capacity of this iconic event.

In addition to being part of the committee, Sinch currently assists in the planning of the event year-round, in the event weekend set up, coordinates the start and as co-presenter with Ross Brommel during the event.

Sinch proudly boasts that he has never swum the Busselton Jetty Swim due to his busy roles on event day, but has navigated the Jetty many times in his boat.

Organising Committee 9

Simon Mansfield
Life member and Artwork

Simon and his family live in Busselton and love the lifestyle the South West offers. His days are busy as Associate Principal of Vasse Primary School and Sinch’s PA however on his weekends, Simon enjoys mountain biking racing and leisure, art, the development of and helping others with personal wellbeing and being proactively well.

In 2003 Simon offered to help the Jetty Swim committee with taking photos, then his role evolved to develop a website and then to design the t-shirts and merchandise and then to manage the event site.

Today his role within the committee is to manage the site on the day preceding the swim and on the swim day. He is also involved in the creation of the theme each year and artwork for the swim.

Simon has swum the jetty four times and holds the unofficial breaststroke record of 1hr 30mins.

Organising Committee 10

Simon Bird
Site Operations

Simon is a resident of Busselton and joined the committee in 2018. He is a self-employed business owner of The Caravan Doctor and also an electrical contractor. Simon brings all of his business acumen and trade skills to the committee during the planning stages and is a huge asset on the event weekend assisting greatly with the setup.

Simon enjoys Triathlons and flying Model Aeroplanes in his spare time. He has participated in the Busselton Jetty Swim five times and his experience in the event was the reason he put his hand up to join the committee.

Organising Committee 11

Sue Barrett
Volunteer Coordinator

Sue lives in Busselton and is a Funeral Consultant with William Barrett & Sons. Sue enjoys swimming, golf, walking, holidaying and volunteering in the aged care sector. Sue joined the committee in 2017 and during her tenure she has shadowed Leanne Ford to learn the ropes of being the Volunteer Coordinator and will take on the role for the 2020 event.

Sue has swum the Busselton Jetty Swim 17 times and decided to join the committee after participating in the swim for many years as she was always so impressed with how well the event was run that she decided she wanted to be a part of the organisation.

Organising Committee 12

Trish Vickery
Past Treasurer

Trish joined the Busselton Jetty Swim committee in 2019 to assist Kat Rafferty with the Treasurer’s role initially and then took on the role in 2020 when Kat became President. Her background is in accounting with a career of small business ownership, bookkeeping, bank officer and school registrar.

Trish lives in West Busselton and is a third generation Busselton local. Trish started cycling and running 10 years ago then took up triathlon 7 years ago after learning to swim. Since then triathlon has taken her around the world after qualifying for 6 World Championships. Trish has now done the Jetty Swim 6 times but swum around the jetty numerous times whilst training.

Organising Committee 13

Michael Abdo
Assistant Race Director

Michael Abdo, a Wonnerup resident, is a Sales Director for a multinational Life Sciences Company based in Zurich and San Francisco and joined the Committee in 2021 to learn the ropes and help where needed.

Michael’s first Busselton Jetty Swim was with his brother and sisters as a team in 1998. The following year he participated in his first solo. The year after that he remembers very clearly as they swam around the burnt remains of the jetty. He hasn’t participated every year since (sadly work does sometimes get in the way) but he has participated often enough that he has lost count.

Michael has derived a great deal of enjoyment from the Jetty Swim for many years and wanted to return the favour so to speak. He hopes that his contribution to the running of the Swim will benefit others who enjoy open water swimming and appreciate what a magnificent resource we have on our doorstep.

When he is not working or volunteering, Michael enjoys anything outdoors – swimming, running, riding, sailing, skiing and diving. Outside of this Michael has been building his own home for a few years and pre-COVID used to travel extensively for work and play usually to seek out the best coffee, which is without question his greatest vice.

Organising Committee 14

Rhys Passmore
One Mile Swim

Rhys, along with his wife Gemma, run their own business “Supper Road” which is a catering business specialising in events, weddings, private dining & wholesale food. In his spare time, Rhys enjoys mountain bike riding and travel when allowed!

Rhys recently joined the Busselton Jetty Swim Committee to contribute and give back to what is a true local event, one of which he has been a part of for many years as a competitor. Rhys has competed in the swim 8 times. Whilst Rhys acknowledges that he is not that competitive, the Jetty Swim is a favourite of his and he always takes the time to get the most out of the event!

Organising Committee 15

Maureen Rabaud
Juniors, Kids Swim, 500m Swim

Maureen moved to Busselton in 2009 with her hubby Brian and 2 daughters who were then 4 and 8. She has been involved in the Busselton Jetty swim as an avid volunteer for over 5 years, however this year she has decided to take it one step further and become a committee member taking on the role as Junior Swim Co-ordinator.

Maureen lives in West Busselton and has been working at West Busselton Primary School for almost 10 years. After spending time in lower and upper primary she has found her passion working in Kindy. So being no stranger to working, encouraging, supporting, nurturing, and educating children she is excited to take on her new role. Maureen is also looking forward to getting to know Simon the Seagull and all about his shortcut!

Organising Committee 16

Suzie Whitfield
Community Engagement

I moved to Busselton in 2021 and I currently work as an executive coach and trainer where I am constantly in awe of human potential and the amazing humans I get to work with. This job excites me every day – I feel so grateful to say I LOVE what I do. I love adventuring and exploring new places, cultures and activities (I have always called myself an experience junkie!)

The 2023 event will be my first on the organising committee. Having just moved to the area I really wanted to offer my time to supporting a local event and with a family history of involvement in this event along with my background of working in international events for over 10 years in London, it seems an amazing match. My role is stakeholder liaison and onsite support to the Event Coordinator. I have just started swimming again so although I have never done the swim it will be on my hit list in the next few years!

Organising Committee 17

Brigitte Borelli
Volunteer Assistant

Brigitte, recently retired, previously worked in the computer industry then had a long career as a baker and a pastry chef. Brigitte is no stranger to endurance events having participated in Busselton Jetty Swim nine times.

Brigitte joined the committee in 2021 as she believes the event has a great impact on the community and the city since it has been created.

Brigitte believes joining the committee is a really inspiring experience to help in the realisation and in the achievement of such an event. Giving back to the community is very important to her.

As a West Busselton resident, Brigitte enjoys opera, classical music, art, food, sports and gardening.

Brigitte will be assisting committee member Sue Barrett with Volunteer Management and assisting the 120+ volunteers who support the event over the weekend to ensure each and every one has a valuable experience.

Organising Committee 4

Kayarni Sarchet
Team Swim and Kids Swim

Kayarni joined the committee in 2022 but began volunteering back in 2019. Her mum’s dedication to volunteering since 2016 inspired her to get involved and contribute as well!

 

Her friends would describe her as caring, funny, and responsible. She has excellent communication skills and enjoys chatting with people of all ages, whether they are kids or adults. Children tend to flock to her like ducks to water! Kayarni brings creativity to the committee, aiming to make everything a little more colourful.

 

So far, she hasn’t conquered the Busselton Jetty Swim, but she is determined to work her way up to the One Mile Swim! Watch out, Jetty – Kayarni’s coming for you!

 

Organising Committee 19

Peter Burton
Registration Coordinator

I joined the Busselton Jetty Swim committee in May 2023 and have been working on ticketing/entries since 2024. My motivation for joining the committee stems from my experience as a participant in the event on several occasions. I wanted to give back to the community by being actively involved in the organisation of this great event.

 

I am a retired scientist who worked as the Science Director in an IVF clinic, and previously, I was a researcher and lecturer in Reproductive Biology at the University of WA.

 

In my free time, I enjoy staying fit through swimming, running, and cycling, and I also participate in triathlons, swimming, and running events. I have taken part in the Busselton Jetty Swim between 10 to 15 times, participating in both team and individual entries.

Organising Committee 4

Rod Wiseman
Start, Finish and Awards

Rod’s profile coming soon.

Organising Committee 4

Carina Bruce
Merchandise Coordinator

Carina’s profile coming soon.

Organising Committee 4

Glenis Tate
Committee Member

Glenis’s profile coming soon.

Organising Committee 4

Dot Scott
Committee Member

Dot’s profile coming soon.

Retired Life Members

Organising Committee 24

Max Higgins
Founder and Past President

Max was the President and founding member of the Busselton Jetty Swim and was involved with the concept of the event and the continued evolvement from 1996 to 2020. Max’s love of keeping fit (ex Ironman), mountain biking, swimming, paddling, running, cycling, fishing, camping, travelling was the genesis of the event. Max identified there was a need for an open water swim in the region and Busselton didn’t have major community sporting events at the time and the Jetty has always been Busselton’s identity symbol.

As a Director of Higgins Building Contractors, he was fortunate to have had the flexibility to dedicate 25 years to the event. Max has swum the Jetty Swim numerous times and has lost count!

Max took a step back after the 25th Anniversary event to hopefully spend more time with his hobbies, business, swimming the event and spending time with his grandchild.

Organising Committee 25

Jenny Higgins
Founder and Past Executive Committee

Jenny, wife of Max Higgins, founding member of the event, was actively involved in the Busselton Allsports Inc. committee since its inception in 1996.  Jenny was an Executive Committee member and Busselton Jetty Swim committee member.   Whilst Max came up with the concept of the Busselton Jetty Swim, Jenny fully supported the idea, and 25 years on, continues to be the pillar of support and continues to offer her time and home for the event.

Jenny lives in Geographe and has been a Nurse, Library Officer and always performed Office Admin for her and Max’s building business.  In the past Jenny has enjoyed Horse riding, Ironman, triathlons and now enjoys jogging, swimming, mountain biking, long walks, camping and travelling.   With the addition of her first grandchild, Jenny will now be performing a new role as a doting Grandmother.

Jenny’s role within the committee is to oversee all the trophies; catering and general administration and enquiries.  She has swum in a team or done a solo swim most years and has been able to participate in 20 swims over the years.

Organising Committee 26

Richard Ford
Founder and Past Vice President

Richard, a local resident of Geographe was one of the four original founding members of the Busselton Jetty Swim and was actively involved for 25 years as Vice President and Executive Committee member. Richard was integral in the growth and development of the event as he adopted his background and knowledge in Mapping, Geographic Information Systems and Database design in to the events planning and management. His various roles and responsibilities over the 25 years included online entries, Risk Management, and succession planning.

Richard enjoyed experiencing the growth and popularity of the event since its inception from the Busselton Tri Club with the natural progression to the swim. Whilst he has swum the jetty numerous times, due to his commitment to the event, has only had the opportunity to swim the Busselton Jetty Swim twice.

In his spare time, Richard enjoys bike riding, walking, swimming, running, reading, travelling, gardening.

Organising Committee 27

Rhonda Stubbs
Past Secretary

Rhonda joined the committee in June 2004 as Secretary. Prior to 2004 Rhonda was a volunteer on the registration/checkin desk for event days. The invitation to join the committee was extended by Max and Jenny Higgins to ‘put some structure’ into their committee meetings! Not sure that worked but Rhonda is still around.

Rhonda has never swum around the jetty and has no intention of doing so! Her hobbies are writing, photography and enjoying her grandchildren. One day she will get back to oil painting!

Rhonda’s background is in Local Government. Prior to her retirement she was Records Manager with the (then) Shire of Busselton. Rhonda and her husband Ian have been involved with local volunteer communities all their adult lives. They moved to Busselton from Kununurra in 1990 as Ian was appointed Shire Clerk of the (then) Shire of Busselton. Rhonda was Secretary for the Southern Districts Agricultural Show (Busselton Show) for 8 years and was Treasurer for the Busselton Art Society for several years. She assisted in admin of CinefestOz for a couple of years as a volunteer and assisted with editing oral history of local pioneers with the Busselton Oral History group. Rhonda also supported her husband Ian in his roles as Mayor of the City of Busselton, and previously as CEO of the municipality, as well as conducting a private consultancy business.

Rhonda and Ian live in Geographe and have two adult children, who grew up in Busselton and now they have two grandchildren who live in Busselton.

Organising Committee 28

Leanne Ford
Founder and Past Executive Committee

Leanne of Geographe was one of the four founding members of the event and was actively involved as an Executive Committee and Committee member from 1996 to 2020. Leanne first became involved in the event when supporting her sporting husband and friends and has maintained an integral role as the event grew. Leanne recalls the first year when she hand lettered the swimmers finisher’s certificates.

Leanne and husband Richard enjoy cycle touring, travelling, camping and reading. With the hectic roles Leanne maintained for the event day over the years she has only swum once – first leg in a 4 person team in 2018!

Leanne is an Office Administrator in her career however her role within the Jetty Swim over the years varied from looking after registration on swim weekend and volunteers to assisting with entries, documentation, risk management any fine details of the weekend! In 2020 Leanne transitioned to retirement finishing her role on the Executive Committee after 25 years.

Retired Members

Lee Steinbacher (2019-2025) Merchandise

Claire Wright (2023-2025) Merchandise 

Christine Townend (2025)    Organising Commitee

Brendan McNally (2020-2024) Registrations

Graeme Jones (2020-2024) Merchandise 

Judy Davy (2020-2024)        Awards 

Stan Wood (2018-2022)                Kids Swim & Junior Swimmers

Wayne Jolley (2020-2022)     Waste Warriors

Wendy Paine (2002-2021) Website & graphic design

Teagan Dawson (2021 & 2022) Social events

Graham Alp (2018-2020)                Risk & Policy

Lyndon Miles (-2019) Merchandise

Ambassadors

2025
Organising Committee 29

Kerry-Lee and Paul Gockel
Ambassadors

Kerry-Lee Gockel, also known as The Wingless Warrior on Instagram, was born without arms. Her husband, Paul Gockel, a silver medalist at the Paralympic Games in 1992 and 1996, shares her passion for open water swimming.

 

The couple was appointed joint ambassadors to promote inclusivity in sport, showing that anyone can participate—no excuses. “We’ve completed swimming events across Australia and the world, and Busselton Jetty Swim has always been on our radar because it’s such an iconic event within the open water swimming community,” said Kerry. “We’re thrilled to be coming to Busselton as event ambassadors and hope to inspire swimmers of all abilities by demonstrating that there are no limits to what they can achieve, in or out of the water,” added Paul.

 

Kerry-Lee and Paul’s resilience and enthusiasm make them ideal advocates for encouraging swimmers of all abilities, whether it’s their first 500m or the full 3.6km around the Jetty.  “There’s nothing quite like ocean swimming. No two swims are ever the same, and it’s a chance to really connect with nature,” said Kerry-Lee. 

 

After the 2025 event, Kerry-Lee told ABC Radio, “It was a real honour to be selected as ambassadors. The Busselton Jetty Swim is promoted as a swim for everybody, and for swimmers with a disability, that’s a bold statement. But it truly was one of the most inclusive events we’ve been to. We saw people from of all ages and abilities taking part—and so it really was very, very special for us”.

 

2024
Organising Committee 30

Jaime Bowler
Ambassador

2024 Ambassador, Jaime Bowler, can’t quite remember how many times she has participated in the event, but she’s been the fastest female across the line 9 times and broken the women’s record twice!

 

According to the well-known endurance swimmer there is nothing quite like the Jetty swim. “It’s such a fun event, a great challenge, and the vibe is incredible. There are so many people from all walks of life participating, and everyone is so kind and supportive, celebrating each other’s achievements”.

.

The full-time nurse and mother of two also she clearly remembers the first time she swam the Busselton Jetty Swim – because it coincided with her wedding anniversary.  “A girlfriend convinced me to do it. She’d told me about the Jetty Swim’s amazing atmosphere, and said: you’ll do it once, and you’ll want to do it every year, which is exactly what happened.  I initially felt guilty about missing my anniversary, but now every year it’s like, bye husband I’m off to do the Jetty Swim!”

 

In addition to the signature 3.6km swim around the Jetty, this year Jaime will be swimming alongside her husband and daughters. “Simon’s 500m Shortcut Swim is the perfect opportunity to warm up for the main event or get started in open water swimming. We are doing it as a family, but my husband and I are quite competitive, so I expect it might become a bit of race, and he will probably beat me!”

 

Jaime also offered some advice to anyone doing their first Jetty Swim. “At the starting line you will be nervous, and you’ll be questioning why you are doing it, but just focus on your own race and remember this is about you, meeting your own challenge”, she said.  “But I promise you, when I see you at the finish line, you will feel completely different. You will be over the moon with happiness.

2022
Organising Committee 31

Felicity Sheedy-Ryan
Ambassador

  • 2 x world Duathlon Championships – 2012, 2017
  • 1 x Bronze medallist World Duathlon Championships – 2010
  • World Cup winner – Tiszaujauvaros Hungary – 2015
  • Bronze World Cup – 2009
  • 4 x Busselton Half Ironman Winner / 1 x 2nd – Record for most wins at Busselton
  • 2 x Noosa Triathlon Runner-up
  • Current WA Female Triathlete of the Year
  • 15 x ITU World Triathlon podiums
  • 9 x International Half Ironman podiums
  • Multiple National and State titles

Felicity Sheedy-Ryan is a professional triathlete representing Australia at the highest level.

She is a 2 x World Champion in Duathlon 2012, 2017 and also a Bronze medallist in the event in 2010.

In 2015 she won her first Triathlon World Cup event in Hungary and has had multiple podium finishes internationally before and since then, at other World Cup events, and International Half Ironman races also.

She has represented Australia multiple times in Triathlon at World Championships at all distances, including Sprint, Olympic Distance, Relay, Duathlon and Half Ironman.

As well as mixing it up racing overseas for a French team in the French Grand Prix League and qualifying for the new hotly contested Super League Triathlon Finals.

Closer to home, Felicity has gained numerous Elite National and State triathlon and running titles across a variety of distances and is a 2 x Noosa Triathlon runner up.

Australia’s Largest triathlon – and her biggest success in WA triathlon – is holding the record for winning the Busselton Half Ironman 4 times and one 2nd place, making her the most successful female triathlete at Busselton.

Currently Felicity is Western Australia’s Female Triathlete of the year. She also feels quite connected to the area having spent large amounts of time training in the south west region with family living in nearby Margaret River as well as her success and love that racing in Busselton has given her.

”My love of this area and our beautiful beaches, combined with the fact Busselton has played such an important part in my career being one of my favourite races and venues, means Busselton really holds a special place in my heart.”

2021
Organising Committee 32

Luke Toki
Ambassador

Luke Toki is a contestant from Australian Survivor (2017) and Australian Survivor: Champions v Contenders (2019). https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A1r44t5otZA

In 2017, he was known for his humorous confessionals and witty personality, as well as his close bond with eventual winner Jericho Malabonga. Luke quickly emerged in the game as a power player, and his refusal to be a backseat driver worked to his advantage. His numerous allies allowed him to travel deep into the merge, before being blindsided for his overall control over the game.

In 2019, Luke returned as the “People’s Champion” on the Champions tribe. Despite being left on the outs early on, Luke and the minority alliance were able to dismantle the Sporty Seven Alliance. While close ally David Genat was blindsided shortly after the merge, Luke quickly recovered and joined forces with the remaining Contenders and Abbey Holmes to blindside Simon Black and Janine Allis.

During the game’s later stages, Luke became the consensus target due to his impressive resume, but a string of Individual Immunity staved off elimination. After spearheading a particularly memorable blindside of Abbey, he was unable to win immunity at the final four and was eliminated after Pia Miranda chose not to force a tie at Tribal Council.

Despite his elimination, the ‘People’s Champion’ or ‘King of the Jungle’ as he fondly referred to himself as proved to be Australian’s favourite son with the general public getting behind his departure with a Go Fund Me Page. After raising over $500,000.00 Luke insisted on the page be shut down and the additional funds donated to Perth charities.

As a local Perth resident, Luke prides himself on being a family man first and foremost. Along with his wife and his three young children, love the lifestyle of Western Australia and enjoy visiting the South West.

Luke now spends his time between work, family and donating his time to support many charities within the Western Australian community.

After spending two seasons with Australian Survivor, Luke is never shy of a good challenge and recognises the importance of Busselton Jetty Swim and the opportunities it offers for every person, every age group, every ability and experience.

2020
Organising Committee 33

Craig Challen, SC OAM
Ambassador

  • Joint winner of Australian of the Year 2019
  • West Australian of the Year 2019
  • Star of Courage (SC) 2018
  • Order of Australia (OAM) 2018
  • Companion of the Order of Direkgunabhorn 2018
  • Oztek 2009 Diver of the Year for services to Caving

In July 2018, respected cave diver and retired vet Craig Challen was about to go on a caving holiday in the Nullarbor Plains, when he was called to help on a rescue mission in Thailand. Craig was part of the international team that successfully rescued 12 boys and their coach from a flooded cave in Chiang Rai, Thailand.

Craig, who has dived some of Australia’s deepest wrecks and has set depth records in diving, was chosen for the mission based on his technical expertise. Working 10 to 12 hours a day in extremely dangerous conditions, Craig repeatedly risked his life as the children were swum, one-by-one, through the dark and narrow flooded caves.
Despite admitting he initially thought the rescue would be too difficult to accomplish, he played a leading role in this successful and heroic mission.

Craig was awarded the Star of Courage for his unwavering and selfless bravery following the successful rescue of the trapped soccer team.

2019
Organising Committee 34

Dylan Coop
Ambassador

  • Member of Superfins WA and Special Olympics WA
  • Has swum Busselton Jetty Swim 10 times
  • Represented Australia at the Special Olympics World Games in 2011 in Athens in Softball
  • Represented Australia at the Special Olympics World Summer Games in 2015 in Los Angeles in Open Water Swimming
  • Represented Western Australia at the Special Olympics National Game in 2018 in Open Water Swimming
  • Sits on the Special Olympics WA State Sporting Working Group

Q. Why did you decide to sign on as an ambassador of the Busselton Jetty Swim?

A. I really enjoy doing the Busselton Jetty Swim. I enjoy all the fun weekend activities offered. I always like meeting lots of swimmers and forming friendships with them over several years. I also want to encourage people with disabilities to join the swim and to meet new people as well.

Q. How many times have you swum the Busselton Jetty Swim?

A. I have swum either solo, duo or teams in the BJS at least 10 times and loved each time

Q. What is your biggest challenge with the Busselton Jetty Swim?

A. My biggest challenge is only the conditions on the day, the wind and strong currents

Q. In your eyes, what makes the Busselton Jetty Swim so special?

A. It is the longest jetty in the southern hemisphere, which makes it pretty special. There are lots of people from all walks of life and all ages and abilities who do the swim. I have a fun weekend with my friends from my swimming club during the event and also afterwards. It is always a great weekend

Q. What do you admire about the people that tackle the Busselton Jetty Swim?

A. It is inspiring that people of all ages give it a go in all conditions. This includes many with disabilities

Q. What did you enjoy most about the event?

A. I enjoy the swim itself and all the great activities offered in the jetty area both before and after the swim. It is great that people can also watch the event from the jetty

Q. What did you enjoy most about the South West?

A. The south west of WA is easy to get to and has lots to offer. The caves, the wineries and the surf beaches are all really good

Q. Has the Busselton Jetty Swim inspired you to continue/take up swimming?

A. Yes the BJS inspires me to continue with my swimming. I have swum since I was a young child and still swim regularly through the year with my swimming club. Through swimming I have been fortunate to represent Australia in open water swimming in Athens. Swimming the BJS has encouraged me to do many open water swims in Perth too

Q. Do you have any advice for the BJS swimmers?

A. Have fun, take your time and do your best. Make sure you train well for the event too

Q. What are your future goals?

A. I will continue to swim regularly and do more Busselton jetty swims. I am delighted to be asked to be an ambassador for this great swim

2018 and 2019
Ambassador Tamara Bruce

Tamara Bruce
Ambassador

In 2018 and 2019, Tamara Bruce was named the Busselton Jetty Swim ambassador. She is an accomplished open water swimmer, known for her numerous Rottnest Channel Swim crossings and her induction into the International Marathon Swimming Hall of Fame in 2017.

 

She has completed a total of 10 solo crossings in the Rottnest Channel Swim, one duo crossing, and two team crossings with the last team crossing delivering the Queen’s Commonwealth Games Baton to the Island.

She competed in the International Sydney Harbour 30km race, which was her first taste of marathon swimming, coming 12th overall and fifth female.

She was the overall winner of the 1992 Rottnest Channel Swim at the age of 14 and established a new overall course record.

Bruce also re-established the female record at the 1993 Rottnest Channel Swim in a time of 4hr 10min., a record that still stands today.

A year later in 1994 as a 17-year-old, she swam the English Channel in 7:53 which remains tied for the 14th-fastest crossing in history (out of 2256 solo swims) and fasted Australian female solo crossing.

“Busselton Jetty Swim is such an iconic swim. I love the unique setting and the many different ages and abilities that the swim can incorporate,” she said.

“My biggest challenge of the swim is being distracted by the beauty of the jetty and the bottom of the ocean. Last year was so clear (I could) see so many things.

“I admire the courage of all the swimmers that come from all walks of life and abilities and not necessarily seasoned swimmers, but they all have the same goal to swim around the Jetty.”

Her future goal is to have most of her swim squad take part in the Busselton Jetty Swim and make it a tradition. The same squad has also planned a junior English Channel relay.

2017 and 2018
Organising Committee 35

Madonna Blyth
Ambassador

Hockeyroos #12
(342 Caps, 70 Goals)

Ambassador Profile

Q. Why did you decide to sign on as an ambassador of the Busselton Jetty Swim again?

A. After being involved last year as an ambassador for the BJS I am really excited to again be a part of the action. The conditions last year brought out the best in the swimmers, highlighting their determination and perseverance despite terrible conditions to swim in. To see so many members of the community, both young and old, complete something so difficult in such a supportive environment is a major drawcard for me.

Q. How will you be getting involved as ambassador this year?

A. This year I am looking to be involved in a few different aspects of the swim weekend. I particularly enjoy being down on the beach when the swimmers make it back to shore. The energy and inspiration that is felt at the finish line after the swimmers accomplish something so difficult is hard to beat. I also look forward to the kids swim and getting them pumped up for their race.

Q. In your eyes, what makes the Busselton Jetty Swim so special?

A. The BJS is such a great event as it embraces such a wide mix of the community. You can see young kids participating in their swim, older generations completing it and a range of elite athletes through to amateurs. All of the swimmers finish with a visible sense of pride and satisfaction those kinds of emotions are infectious!

Q. What do you admire about the people that tackle the Busselton Jetty Swim?

A. Last year the swimmers faced some terrible weather and surf conditions and yet despite this the majority finished with a smile on their face. The competitors didn’t back away from the challenges they faced and this was something you could see right from the first swimmer home until the last.

Q. What did you enjoy most about the event last year as ambassador of the Busselton Jetty Swim?

A. There were some great moments during the Busselton Jetty Swim last year but for me the best place to be was on the sand welcoming the swimmers back on to dry land. It is difficult to explain the feeling I had watching so many people achieve one of their dreams. I was in awe.

Q. What did you enjoy most about the South West last year as ambassador of the Busselton Jetty Swim?

A. Definitely the community support and engagement around the swim. It is a beautiful part of the world but for me the way people encouraged their fellow swimmers, came out to watch or volunteered their time says a lot about the people in that community.

Q. Has the Busselton Jetty Swim inspired you to continue/take up swimming?

A. I would like to say yes but I am definitely a land animal! It motivated me to be involved again and to challenge myself in other areas but I am happy to do that from shore!

Q. Do you have any advice for the BJS swimmers?

A. This is a huge challenge but the reward will be worth the effort. Accept there will be moments that are difficult and that you may feel nervous, stressed or overwhelmed. Believe that you are capable of great things despite the obstacles.

2017 and 2018
Organising Committee 36

Priya Cooper O.A.M. BsC
Ambassador

  • 1999 Young Australian of the Year for Sporting Achievement
  • Sports Australia Hall of Fame
  • World Champion Paralympic Swimmer
  • Motivational Speaker

Ambassador Profile

Q. Why did you decide to sign on as an ambassador of the Busselton Jetty Swim again?

A. It was such a great weekend, full of activities and people participating in a wonderful event. I think it is important to promote events such as this that get a for the WA community to be part of. It is a very inclusive event for all abilities.

Q. How will you be getting involved as ambassador this year?

A. Promotion before the swim to encourage more people to participate. Im happy to be involved in any aspect of the day and really enjoy meeting the swimmers. Also presenting the various awards at the end of the day.

Q. In your eyes, what makes the Busselton Jetty Swim so special?

A. I think because it is so inclusive and the whole community down south make the event so special. It is a beautiful destination at an iconic location.

Q. What do you admire about the people that tackle the Busselton Jetty Swim?

A. They are very brave! I loved seeing the young ones and also the more ‘seasoned’ swimmers

Q. What did you enjoy most about the event last year as ambassador of the Busselton Jetty Swim?

A. I really enjoyed being part of the start of the various waves, looking out on the crowd of people waiting to start and then watching them as they flood out into the ocean. I also really enjoyed meeting some of them on stage.

Q. Has the Busselton Jetty Swim inspired you to continue/take up swimming?

A. Its definitely inspired me to get fit and active and maybe get in a do a few laps!

Q. Do you have any advice for the BJS swimmers?

A. Just have FUN!