Nine Perth announces media partnership with the iconic Rottnest Channel Swim

Nine Perth has announced its official media partnership with Western Australia’s much-loved and iconic open water event, the South32 Rottnest Channel Swim.

Celebrating its 36th anniversary next year, the event will take place on Saturday, February 21, 2026, welcoming thousands of participants to swim the 19.7km from Cottesloe Beach (Mudurup) to Rottnest Island (Wadjemup).

This event will also allow swimmers the opportunity to fundraise and support numerous charities, to give back and make a real difference.

This partnership announcement underscores Nine Perth’s ongoing commitment to supporting the local community across major events that help deliver real outcomes and make a positive impact to the lives of Western Australians.

Nine Perth Managing Director, Clive Bingwa, said: “We are extremely proud to partner with the South32 Rottnest Channel Swim, an iconic event that is a cultural highlight of WA with both national and global appeal.

“We look forward to supporting the Rottnest Channel Swim Association in their endeavours to make this their biggest and best event yet, and to deliver exceptional outcomes that will benefit the WA community.”

9News Perth’s Michael Thomson also shared his excitement, reflecting on Nine Perth’s previous history with the event. “I can remember when Nine first became involved in the event as a sponsor in the 1990s. It’s such an iconic event and we would always have at least two teams swimming each year. It was a special time and made us realise just how tough the course was, even in a team of four,” he said.

“It’s so good to have Nine back involved with the event and I can’t wait for the start of the upcoming Rottnest Channel Swim.”

Addy Wetzler, Executive Director of the Rottnest Channel Swim Association, said: “We’re thrilled to welcome Nine Perth as our new media partner. The South32 Rottnest Channel Swim is one of Western Australia’s most iconic sporting events, and this partnership will help us share the incredible stories of our swimmers, volunteers and community with an even broader audience.”

Will Rollo, President of the Rottnest Channel Swim Association, said: “We are so proud to have media powerhouse Nine Perth partner with us. Their enthusiasm, professionalism and community commitment will bring new energy to the event. We can’t wait to once again welcome local, national and international athletes to this event and deliver the best South32 Rottnest Channel Swim ever.”

Since the first Rottnest Channel Swim in 1991, almost 4,000 solo crossings have been completed, with many thousands more participating in Duos or Teams of Four. Over that time, millions of dollars have been raised for WA-based charities.

More than 6,000 swimmers, paddlers, and skippers from around the world are expected to take part in the 2026 event.

Registrations for the 2026 South32 Rottnest Channel Swim will open soon.