Queensland Police are hoping to make a big splash today as they rally around one of their own needing a helping hand after sustaining serious injuries during an accident while holidaying interstate late last year.
In late December, during a visit to a waterfall in Tasmania with his family, the ground underneath Senior Constable Mark Barclay gave way, causing him to fall a significant distance onto rocks and water below.
With life-threatening injuries, he was placed into an induced coma for three weeks with fractured legs, significant facial fractures requiring reconstructive surgery and swelling on the brain resulting in other complications.
Yesterday, Senior Constable Barclay was flown back home where he is currently receiving care at the Princess Alexandra Hospital.
The Sunshine Coast Tactical Crime Squad officer and valued member of the Police Dive Unit has been described as an amazing, generous and positive person.
Queensland Police say the husband and father of two young children has a long journey of rehabilitation and recovery ahead.
Officer in Charge of the Dive Unit Sergeant, Andy Bauer said Dive Unit members will today swim laps continuously on a rotational basis for 24-hours straight to help raise support for Mark and his family.
“This is a great opportunity for the Queensland Police community to come together as well as raise some much needed funds for a fellow officer and family,” Sergeant Bauer said.
“It’s going to be different to what we’re used to when jumping in water, but we are absolutely delighted to be taking part.”
Sunshine Coast District TCS Officer in Charge Senior Sergeant Scott Wiggins said officers will dive into the swim-a-thon from 8am today until the last stroke at 8am on Friday, February 25.
Donations towards the event can be directed to the below account which has been set up to assist Mark and his family during his recovery.
Bank: QBank
Account name: Mark Barclay Welfare Fund
BSB: 704 052
Account number: 100207103
