While most of Palmerston in the Northern Territory is still asleep, 69‑year‑old Gary Browder has been slipping into the pool at 5am at SWELL Palmerston with one dream on his mind: completing 100 laps in a single morning. This challenge is deeply personal for Gary, who lost his right arm to bone cancer in 2021 and his shoulder to complications in 2025. It’s also a milestone he has never reached before – his personal best…
Swim and Survive students with swim teachers Paxton (Left) and OJ (Right) Almost 2,000 indigenous students across years 1-6 have gained critical water safety and survival skills at SWELL Palmerston this year, all thanks to the venue’s free Swim and Survive school swimming program. This includes 40 youth from the remote town of Kalkarindji, who travelled more than 12 hours to take part. For the Kalkarindji students, the trip was a rare and vital opportunity. With no access to commercial swimming pools in…
Backdropped by sunset skies, over 50 locals have gathered for a two-hour twilight aqua exercise festival to mark Worldwide Aquathon Day and raise much needed funds for local community inclusion programs at SWELL Palmerston. The community rallied together on November 8th, raising $200 for Belgravia Foundation, SWELL Palmerston’s charity partner, which connects communities to…
It’s World Mental Health Day! World Mental Health Day is observed on 10 October each year as a global movement to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and encourage positive action for mental wellbeing. The day invites communities, workplaces, schools, and individuals to pause, reflect, and act in ways that strengthen social connection and mental health. About…
As a valued Member, you already know the importance of staying active, building confidence and feeling safe in and around water. Now’s your chance to spread the word and be rewarded in a big way! We’re offering current, eligible members the chance to WIN a trip to see athletes from the Australian Dolphins Swim Team…
It’s Loneliness Awareness Week! Loneliness is a critical issue and is recognised as a public health priority for many countries around the world. However, despite being highly prevalent, loneliness isn’t widely understood or spoken about in Australia. Loneliness Awareness Week, from Ending Loneliness Together, shines a spotlight on the shared experience of loneliness and calls…
Our individual health and wellbeing are paramount to enjoying a fulfilled life alongside our loved ones, engaging in countless valuable experiences to remember. This Global Wellness Day, we’re taking a closer look at how being more active, no matter your circumstance or ability, can positively boost your health and enjoyment of life. What is Global…
Men’s Health Week (June 9–15) is a national movement to spotlight the health and wellbeing of Australian men. This year’s theme, “See Your GP”, is a powerful call to action — reminding men to prioritise their health by taking that first step: booking a check-up. We believe that seeing your GP is the perfect check…
If you’re looking for motivation to put your health first this Men’s Health Week, Gary’s story is all the inspiration you need. His story is a powerful reminder that no matter your challenges, age or ability, it’s never too late to take charge of your wellbeing. Every day, 61-year-old Gary shows up at SWELL Palmerston…
Safety is our number one priority at SWELL. Because of this, we have enacted the below supervision requirements, as recommended by Royal Life Saving Society Australia, to ensure everyone is safe in the water!