Now a trainer at Summit Fitness Studio, Ms Campbell is using her unique skills to help a group of at-risk youths prepare for Wollongong's challenging Australia Day Aquathon.

The Lighthouse Youth and Anglicare initiative has given eight young people an opportunity to set goals, push personal boundaries and achieve in ways they never thought possible.

Tegan Kelso took on the aquathon last year, but an interruption in training made getting over the line a struggle. But now that she knows exactly what she's in for, the 20-year-old is on track to complete the short course 400m swim and 3km in style.

"I think I just want to challenge myself and see if I can do better than last year. This year I'm doing more training," she said.

Striding around Towradgi Park during a training session last week, Jake McDougall could have been mistaken for a competitive distance runner.

Having now gained a taste of serious training, the 19-year-old says he's keen to improve and seek out more opportunities to compete.

"It's not something I had ever considered doing before but now I'm involved I'd like to keep going to keep myself fit and healthy and to give my mind a bit of discipline as well," Mr McDougall said.

Ms Campbell said she was extremely proud of her young charges.

"Watching our youths set and achieve their goals is a rewarding experience."