At Burpengary Regional Aquatic Leisure Centre (BRALC) in Queensland, the water offers more than just exercise and leisure – it’s a sanctuary. For Kaz, who lost her son to suicide in 2018, the pool has become a source of healing, purpose and hope. Karen Bennett, known to many as Kaz, is the venue’s Customer Service and Access and Inclusion Officer. But beyond her role at BRALC, Kaz is a mother who has turned unimaginable grief into a mission of love, awareness and change.
In 2018, Kaz lost her son Josh to suicide. A tragedy that shook her family to its core. Kaz explained that, by all accounts, Josh was a happy young man. He had a job, great mates and a supportive, loving home. Just a day before he passed, he played in the semi-finals for the Caboolture Snakes Rugby Union team, spent time with his best friend and even 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 during it all, swimming became her place of comfort. “Three years ago, walking through the gates of BRALC changed something. 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,” Kaz explained. From this, Laps for Josh was born. A personal tribute to Kaz’s son and it has 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 shares. “A smile from the reception staff or another swimmer reminds me I’m not alone.” Kaz’s presence at BRALC has not gone unnoticed. Venue Manager Tanya Fletcher shares, “Karen is a ray of sunshine to our venue, very positive energy and always smiling and well-loved within the team.”
Members of the community have echoed this sentiment, with one visitor expressing, “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 over $5,300 so far. Kaz has set a personal goal of swimming 50km throughout March, fueled by the love and support of those around her. Josh’s memory lives on in every stroke of the swimmers – friends, family and members – who join Kaz in this tribute. Laps for Josh is more than a fundraiser; it’s a reminder that no one carries their burdens alone. “Kindness is the most powerful, least costly agent of human change. You’re forever loved and missed, Josh.” – Mum. When life doesn’t go as planned, visit ReachOut Australia, a safe place to chat anonymously, get support and feel better.
If you or someone you know needs support, please reach out: For support in Australia: For support in New Zealand: Remember, you are not alone. Help is available.
