Port Macquarie Swimming Club president Warren Phillips estimated the night raised about $5000 on its own for Berryman, who is undergoing treatment for non-Hodgkins lymphoma.

There were long queues for the barbecue and aqua scramble as the kids looked to have fun, while the St Paul’s/MacKillop band played tunes on the steps of the grandstand.

Some serious swimming happened too, with a one kilometre backstroke challenge adding to the night.

Phillips said the night couldn’t have gone any better.

“It was a bloody great night,” he said.

Sydney clubs and others from the North Coast have gotten behind the cause.

“The support from the swimming fraternity outside the area has been unbelievable,” Phillips said.

Berryman was pleased to see everyone come together to get behind him.

“It’s good. Good to see the support,” Berryman said.

He’s feeling better than you would expect at this stage of his treatment.

“Having a bit of fitness from swimming – I haven’t got too sick,” he said.

Phillips thanked Michael and Cindy Mullens from Swimwell, and the pool staff, on behalf of the Berryman family.

The staff donated their time to ensure all money raised went to the cause.

“It’s a big thing for them to give up their Wednesday night,” Phillips said.