With such a great response to the event in 2014 the Ararat YMCA raised $5,000 for individuals living with disabilities in the region this year the centre is aiming even higher.

Thanks largely to Brookfield Multiplex Corporation for its philanthropic donation of $2000, the Ararat YMCA is well on its way to reaching its target.

Lap swimming will take place from 10am-12pm followed by a family open day.

There will be plenty of activities to keep patrons entertained throughout the afternoon, with a $20 family pass covering the cost of a barbecue lunch, jumping castle, a chance to get up close and personal with some wildlife at the mobile zoo and of course a swim to beat the heat.

Adding to the fun will be a duck race. Anyone can purchase one of the rubber toys that will be raced, with the winner receiving a six month aquatic membership to the centre.

A raffle with prizes donated from various business will also be up for grabs.

Justin Smith is the final of four Swimathon ambassadors to be featured in The Ararat Advertiser.

Justin has a global developmental delay and may have Noonan Syndrome. He is six, but mentally at the age of three.

In a lot of ways he has no fear and loves the water, however without the money raised from last year's Swimathon Justin wouldn't be able to have swimming lessons and his fearless attitude around the water could be quite dangerous.

With Justin everything he does is a challenge, but with his swimming lessons he has improved.

It is so important that Justin gets the proper education about water safety so he can have fun in and around the water, just like every other child.