This year, in partnership with Keiser, Rotary Brighton conducted its 12th annual Australia Day swim at Middle Brighton. This event has raised some significant funds for Rotary projects over the years.
Eight hundred plus swimmers and several thousand spectators gathered at the Brighton Baths and Pier precinct for this annual swim event.
Due to COVID-19, the event was cancelled in 2021. Over the 2021/22 summer, many competitive swim events were again cancelled including the legendary Pier to Pub race. However, Rotary Brighton modified the Australia Day swim to make it COVID safe with measures such as requiring all swimmers and event personnel to confirm their vaccination status. Unfortunately, it was necessary to suspend events for the Under 13 YO (unvaccinated) Juniors.The 810 swimmers registered in 870 Open Water events, with swimming courses around the Middle Brighton Pier and Breakwater to the Beach. Weather conditions were idyllic. Our very own District Governor, Dale Hoy and local community leaders were on hand to present the awards to the victors in the various categories.
Feedback from swimmers and spectators was very positive with many expressing the joy of being able to resume a more normal swimming event after the COVID lockdowns and restrictions.
The day provided a great opportunity for Brighton Rotarians to participate in a club activity, to present a positive Rotary image to the public, but also achieve a great fundraising outcome: $40,000 for Rotary charities.
A really fabulous result! Well done to all who made this event possible.
