Farmer aims to be first to swim length of Darling River

Scott Gladman, a 63-year-old Victorian farmer, is embarking on a historic swim along the full length of the Darling River, a 1,650-kilometre journey from Brewarrina to the Murray River at Wentworth, Victoria. He began the challenge on Tuesday near Brewarrina, with the goal of completing it by the end of the year. Gladman plans to fundraise for Fight Parkinson's and MND Victoria, and expects the swim to take around 103 days under ideal conditions.

The impetus for the swim came after a heart scare at 54, prompting Gladman to make the most of a second chance at life. Friends Russ Wardle, diagnosed with Parkinson's, and Pat Russell, diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease, inspired him to embark on this fundraising challenge. Gladman states he has missed grain harvest season, the Victorian election, and his son's wedding during the swim, but will think of his family while swimming.

Gladman's journey will be assisted by his wife, a family friend, and fellow paddler Mike Bremer, as well as a boat driver. Despite the physical demands, Gladman is confident in his ability to complete the swim, crediting his mental grit and preparation to renowned swim coach Mike Gregory. He plans to begin swimming 12 kilometres a day, gradually increasing the distance as the journey progresses.

Gladman will occasionally have to walk if the river becomes too shallow or navigate weirs. Once the swim is complete, he hopes to raffle the boat and sell the ATV, with proceeds split between MND and Parkinson's charities.