SUNDAY’S annual mid-winter swim at Ōhope Beach was a resounding success, drawing a crowd of enthusiastic participants eager to brave the chilly waters for a great cause.

The event, which attracted about 100 swimmers and more spectators, raised $609 for the Whakatāne Surf Life Saving Club.

Many dressed up for the occasion, with prizes awarded to the most creative costumes.

Radio 1XX host LJ Dobbin did more than her fair share to promote, participate and boost the fundraising coffers with a donor having offered $100 to the cause if she stayed in the water for two minutes.

Media Bay of Plenty promotions manager Chris Ford said on the day a second donor offered a further $70 if she stayed in for double the time.

Ms Dobbin survived the four-minute plunge to secure the promised $170 donation to the surf club.

“The support we received was incredible,” Ms Ford said. “Our dedicated lifeguards work tirelessly to keep our beaches safe, and it’s heartwarming to see the community come together to support them.”

As for the water temperature, it was “freezing” according to some of the lifeguards who hit the water first and were required to stay in until the last swimmer exited. Some swimmers, especially children, stayed in longer than expected.

Post-swim, participants warmed up with $2 sausages from the barbecue, manned by the surf club.

Lifeguard training

WHAKATĀNE Surf Life Saving Club is beginning its lifeguard recruitment for the 2024-25 summer season.

If you are interested in joining the club’s lifeguard training programme, and helping patrol Ōhope Beach over the summer, there is an information evening at the surf club on August 8 at 5.30pm.

Lifeguard training is open to anyone aged 14 years and above – with no upper age limit – with the option to become either a lifeguard or patrol (non-water) support.

For more information, email Michelle Cossey at [email protected]