When William Yeates, Bill, was diagnosed with Younger Onset Dementia in 2019, it was the support of his mates from the local surf club on Sydney's Northern Beaches that provided strength and camaraderie in challenging times. 

A testament to their lifelong friendship, these mates are now the organising force behind the Ocean Rockpool Tour Charity Swim and have created an annual event that not only supports Bill but also seeks to raise awareness about dementia and mental health.

Bill, Mick Harrold, Simon Rorke, and Bill’s twin brother Peter were determined to make a difference.

‘We wanted to find a charity that would use the donations to directly support the people with dementia living on the Northern Beaches,’ explains Bill.

Now in its fourth year, participants travel the northern beaches, swimming at 13 rock pools from Palm Beach to Shelley Beach. The day features challenging and inventive swim races like the butterfly and dog paddle, and there are biking and hiking options plus prizes to be won. 

This year’s Rockpool Tour raised $10,000 to pay for artists and supplies for HammondCare’s eight-week art program, which is designed to help improve the quality of life of people with dementia,” Bill said.

The next annual Ocean Rockpool Tour event is on Saturday 18th January 2025.

HammondCare’s lead artist practitioner, Charlotte Salusinszky, said the northern beaches workshops provided social connections and creative expression for participants.

Ms Salusinszky said the objective was getting people to participate and experience painting, as well as poetry, singing, sculpture, storytelling and other forms of artistic expression.

Bill, was a keynote speaker at HammondCare’s International Dementia Conference and has recently taken a role as a person with lived experience consulting on programmes for Dementia Support Australia. He talked to the HammondCare Foundation about how funds raised could be directed to benefit the community.

‘We were so excited to speak to Bill about this event and how funds raised could support dementia-related initiatives,” said Head of Foundation Jess Mienert. ‘We align with what the event aims to achieve. 

‘Our services extend beyond those directly affected by dementia to encompass the broader community, especially carers.’

Funds raised will go directly towards supporting respite services and social clubs for people living with dementia on the northern beaches. This strategic allocation helps us offer a break for carers while also fostering social engagement and support for those living with dementia.

This partnership between Ocean Rockpool Tour Charity Swim and HammondCare Foundation exemplifies a shared commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of those living with dementia.

The 2025 event is being held on Saturday 18th January 2025. Visit the HammondCare Foundation website to donate to this special event by selecting “Ocean Rockpool Tour Charity Swim” in the drop-down options on the donation form. Or scan this QR code to donate directly from your phone.

* All donations of $2 and above are tax deductible

Join Bill in supporting the cause of people living with dementia by donating, or signing up to participate in the event on the Ocean Rockpool Tour Charity Swim web page.