Laps for Josh: Kaz's mission to save lives

Karen Bennett lost her son Josh to suicide in 2018. The tragedy shook her family to its core. But Kaz found a sanctuary – in Burpengary.

Swimming gave Kaz a “purpose again” and led to Laps for Josh, an annual fundraiser held in March at Burpengary Regional Aquatic Leisure Centre (BRALC).

With the memory of her son in every stroke, Kaz, the centre's Customer Service and Access and Inclusion Officer, swimming to raise awareness and help those struggling with mental health.

By all accounts, Kaz says, Josh was a happy young man. He had a job, great mates and a supportive, loving home.

A day before he passed, Josh played in the semi-finals for the Caboolture Snakes Rugby Union Club, spent time with his best friend and started an online course for a new job.

Life seemed normal, until suddenly it wasn’t.

For Kaz and her family, the days, weeks and years that followed were a blur.

But with love, support and sheer perseverance, they found a way to keep going - and swimming became Kaz’s place of comfort.

“Three years ago, walking through the gates of BRALC changed something,” she said.

“I found not just a place to swim but a community that welcomed me and gave me purpose again.

“Each March, we swim in Laps for Life, an initiative raising money for ReachOut Australia, an organisation dedicated to supporting young people struggling with their mental health.”

From this, Laps for Josh was born as a personal tribute to Kaz’s son.

It has now become a powerful movement to help others who may be carrying their own silent struggles.

“Some days, the grief is so heavy I can barely lift it, but on those days, I go to the pool,” Kaz says.

“A smile from the reception staff or another swimmer reminds me I’m not alone.”

BRALC Venue Manager Tanya Fletcher said: “Karen is a ray of sunshine to our venue, very positive energy and always smiling and well-loved within the team.”

One visitor added: “Kaz is brilliant, competent, friendly and full of personality.

“She went above and beyond to help me with my membership issue and her presence at the Centre makes a difference.”

This year, Laps for Josh has already surpassed expectations, raising more than $5300 so far.

Kaz has a personal goal of swimming 50km in March, fuelled by the love and support of family, friends and those around her.

For more information on Laps for Josh and to support the fundraiser at BRALC www.lapsforlife.com.au/fundraisers/LapsforJosh

When life doesn’t go as planned, visit ReachOut Australia - a safe place to chat anonymously and get support - at https://au.reachout.com/