Bev Norman and daughter Brenda Norman after Brenda’s second attempt at the North Channel crossing.
On gusty winter mornings, somewhere deep in the waters of the Edward River, Deniliquin’s own Brenda Norman is training for one of the most gruelling challenges on Earth.
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She is preparing to tackle a solo swim across the North Channel - a 34.5km stretch of frigid ocean separating Ireland and Scotland - for the third time.
But this is not just about endurance and personal achievement. It’s about making a difference.
Like her other endurance swims, Brenda’s is taking on the challenge under the banner of Channel for Change - a Deniliquin-based initiative she founded to shine a light on youth mental health.
Every stroke she takes helps raise awareness and funds for the Deniliquin Mental Health Awareness Group (Deni MHAG), supporting people and families across the Southern Riverina.
And Brenda knows what she’s up against.
In 2023, she twice attempted to conquer the North Channel - known for bad weather, cold water and the lions' mane jellyfish.
Due to bad weather and rough seas, the first ended with brutal sea sickness.
In the second attempt, she came heartbreakingly close, stopping just 4km from land due to hypothermia.
Since then, she’s undergone wrist reconstruction surgery, battled persistent shoulder and elbow pain, and rebuilt her stroke from the ground up.
Now, she’s back and more determined than ever.
“I’m trying to show what determination can do for you,” Brenda said.
With one in five Australians experiencing mental illness each year, Brenda’s swim represents more than athleticism - it’s about building a town that listens, responds, and helps.
Her mission? To finish the swim and raise $15,000 to fund Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training for 50 local adults by the end of 2026.
Funds raised will also support youth-focused events and workshops, and resources to help community members recognise and act on signs of mental distress.
This forms part of a broader goal by Deni MHAG to ensure 175 more residents are trained in MHFA by 2027 - that’s 20 per cent of Deniliquin’s adult population.
To find out more or to donate to Channel for Change, go to www.denimentalhealth.org.au/channel4change.
Bev Norman pulls out the flag signed by participants at the Deniliquin Jelly Fish Colour Run to give Brenda Norman some motivation in the water.
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