Marathon Swimming Australia (formerly the Australian Long Distance Swimming Federation) is dedicated to advancing the sport of open water swimming.

Our mission is to recognise and support swimmers of all levels who challenge themselves in oceans, rivers, and lakes across Australia.

Our Mission

We exist to provide a platform where open water swimmers can thrive through recognition, resources, and community. We inspire participation, preserve the history of the sport, and advocate for safe and sustainable practices.

The mission involves:

  • Certifying and promoting long-distance swims in Australia.

  • Supporting swimmers through mentorship and resources.

  • Maintaining a repository of records and historical swims.

  • Advocating for safety, environmental stewardship, and high standards in open water swimming

  

Our History and Leadership

Founded in Hobart, Tasmania, on 26 January 1973, the Australian Long Distance Swimming Federation (ALDSF) gave marathon swimmers recognition, structure, and legitimacy.

The founding leadership of the Australian Long Distance Swimming Federation (ALDSF) included:

  • Christopher Guesdon – President

  • Dick Campion – Deputy President

  • Susanne Guesdon – Secretary

  • John Koorey – Executive Member

All four, along with the ALDSF itself, were later inducted into the Australian Marathon Swimming Hall of Fame (AMSHOF), with Christopher Guesdon, Dick Campion, and Susanne Guesdon also honoured by the International Marathon Swimming Hall of Fame (IMSHOF).

In May 2022, Christopher Guesdon and Dick Campion stepped down after decades of leadership, passing the reins to Doug Hughson (President), Val Kalmikovs (Vice President), and Sharon Young (Secretary).

In March 2025, a new generation of leadership was appointed, with Christian Renford elected President and directors Dean Summers, Katya Noble, Michael Teys, and Alan Boydell joining the board, bringing fresh energy, governance expertise, and a renewed vision for the sport.

Just a few months later, in September 2025, the organisation rebranded as Marathon Swimming Australia (MSA), cementing its role as the national governing body for open water swimming in Australia and carrying forward this legacy into a new era.

Over five decades, the organisation has evolved, supporting international competition and establishing the Australian Triple Crown in ratifying iconic swims such as the Derwent River Big Swim and Port to Pub, and Palm Beach to Shelly Beach swims.

Further Honours

In 2022, the ALDSF was inducted into the Australian Marathon Swimming Hall of Fame, recognised for its pivotal role in the advancement of marathon swimming in Australia.

In 2023, the ALDSF was honoured by the International Marathon Swimming Hall of Fame as an Honor Contributor – Organization for its outstanding global impact on the sport.

 

International Links

We maintain close ties with international organisations including the World Open Water Swimming Association (WOWSA) and the International Marathon Swimming Hall of Fame (IMSHOF).

These partnerships allow Australian swimmers to participate in and be recognised globally.