Aaron is nearing the end of the charity swim, designed to raise funds for the Starlight Foundation, and has been motivated along the way by youngster Halle Kiehne, who has battled brain cancer.

"Any time I have a bit of pain (while swimming) I think of her," Aaron said.

"She is my main motivation and Starlight helped lift her spirits so that's why I'm doing the challenge."

Halle's journey has been followed extensively by the Times in the past few years to highlight the importance of raising funds for sick children.

When Aaron wraps up the challenge next week, he plans on taking a photo with Halle.

Aaron, a lifeguard at the Manning Aquatic Leisure Centre, swims about 20km a week "for fun and exercise" so the challenge seemed like a no-brainer.

He's also got ironman and triathlon experience.

"I've been swimming my whole life," Aaron said.

Setting a modest goal of $500, his fundraising efforts were soon blown out of the water (pun intended).

At time of print, Aaron was nearing $1600 raised. He still has to account for sponsorship money.

"I'm going to be a debt collector for sure," he laughed.

Aaron was closing in on 135km swum when he spoke to the Times earlier this week. He started the challenge on Australia Day and aimed to swim 120km.

He's set to swim more than 150km when the challenge ends.

"Knowing kids are getting help with the money makes it all worth it," Aaron said.

To donate, visit Aaron's page on the Starlight SuperSwim website www.superswim.org.au/aaron-hayward.

Donations of $2 or more are tax deductible.

Another local swimmer, Stephanie Henderson, is also taking part in the challenge.

She is also swimming laps at the Taree pool and will finish up soon.

Read more about her accomplishments online or in last Wednesday's Times.