The Nationals’ Member for Mildura, Jade Benham, will take part in this weekend’s MS Mega Swim to help raise funds for people living with multiple sclerosis.
The MS Mega Swim is a 24-hour team relay where swimmers take turns in the pool and are sponsored by friends, family and colleagues. Participants can swim in any style, with every lap contributing to vital MS support services.
Ms Benham, swimming as a member of the ‘Healthy Dolphins’ team said she was keen to support such an important event that raises money for a cause affecting so many within the community.
“This is such an important cause and I didn’t hesitate to get involved,” Ms Benham said.
Ms Benham is swimming alongside long-time participant Amanda Ramsay, who said the event holds deep personal meaning for her family.
“Our family has been part of the MS Mega Swim since it began, swimming in memory of my uncle who passed away from MS in his 20s,” Ms Ramsay said.“This year, three generations of our family will be in the pool, raising awareness and vital funds for MS research.”
More than 33,300 Australians live with MS. The condition is complex and unpredictable, often diagnosed in young adults, with the average age of diagnosis around 30.
“MS can affect someone’s life very quickly,” Ms Benham said.
“It might mean losing mobility, vision, or the ability to work or live independently. These are things many of us don’t think about until they’re taken away.”
Funds raised through the MS Mega Swim support programs that provide peer support, financial assistance and employment help for people living with MS.
“I’d encourage anyone who can to support the MS Mega Swim,” Ms Benham said.
“Jump in, chip in, or share the link.”
The 2026 Mildura MS Mega Swim will be held on Saturday, 17 January 2026 commencing at 12.00 noon at the Mildura Waves complex. To donate or become involved, visit:
https://www.msmegachallenge.org.au/event/mega-swim-mildura/home.
