"It really starts the year off with a big bang," Mr Rowell said.

"I'll be taking my kids as it's always a fun day.

"It's always packed to the rafters on the day and it brings out the best in people.

"But as much fun as it is, it's a serious issue and it's all for people living with cystic fibrosis."

He has registered Team Jai Rowell for the swim and is looking for members of the community to donate or join him on the day in the pool.

"We want to do even better than last year," he said.

"We've set a target of $1000 and anyone is welcome to join."

Mr Rowell and his staff will also attend the launch night at Camden Valley Inn on Thursday, February 9.

During the auction last year he spent $351 on a teddy bear, outbidding political rival Phil Costa.

"It's the most expensive bear I've ever bought," he said.

"It still takes pride of place in my office."

The swimathon will be held on Saturday, February 11 at the Wollondilly Leisure Centre in Picton.

Details: 4683 2622, Wollondilly@parliament.nsw.gov.au or cysticfibrosismacarthur.org.au.

THE WHENS AND WHERES

When: The swimathon is on February 11 at the Wollondilly Community Leisure Centre, Picton. The swimathon launch will be on February 9 at Camden Valley Inn.

Donating: Visit www.everydayhero.com.au/event/swi mathonforcystic

fibrosis to make a donation or visit www.stickytickets.

com.au/7071 to buy a ticket to the swimathon launch.

Details: Visit www.cystic fibrosismacarthur.com.au, email alicia.bowie@fairfax media.com.au or call 46405117.

OUR SPONSORS

Platinum: Xstrata Coal, Peter Jermyn, Camden Valley Inn, Hennings Jewellers, Plus Fitness, DA Global Logistics, Byrons Chartered Accountants and the Advertiser papers.

Gold: TRN Group, Trophy Mart Leumeah, Framing Beautiful, Macarthur Castles, Macarthur BEC, Illawarra Coal, FDC Construction & Fitout, Lifehouse Church, Wollondilly Community Leisure Centre, Tahmoor Lions Club, Sharon’s Photography.

Silver: Hi Quality Electrical, ANZ Tahmoor, Paul Wakeling Motor Group.

Bronze: Masters Home Improvement, Macarthur Square, Camden Hire, Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures, Balloon Aloft, Bridge Climb Sydney, Questacon, Pinnacle of Pretty, Mowbray Park, Councillor David Funnell, Campbelltown Catholic Club, Natalie’s Beauty and Massage, Harrington’s Bar & Grill, Uniden, House WarehouseTahmoor.