REGISTRATION is open for the 2026 Coffs Coast Ocean Swims to be held on Sunday 22 March 2026.
With the swimming and surfing seasons in full swing, the local Ocean Swims organiser Sawtell Surf Life Saving Club is pushing ahead with planning for the 30th Anniversary of the event.
A regular staple on the Coffs Coast community program, the swim courses are within the sheltered waters of the harbour around the jetty.
In 2025 there were around 520 swimmers who entered the three events.
From youngsters in the 300m, to social swimmers in the 600m, and to seasoned swimmers in the 2km swim.“Choosing a date for such an event is always extremely difficult – next year being no exception,” Sawtell SLSC’s Bruce Macphail told News Of The Area.
Brooke Hanson, who has been Race Ambassador for many years, is unfortunately unable to attend but hopes to be back in future years.
For those who are mulling over their chances, Mr Macphail shared some pointers from Andre Slade, the founder of OceanFit.
“There’s plenty of talk these days about times, distances, and paces – but anyone who’s spent a morning in the ocean knows that none of it really matters,” Mr Slade said.
“The ocean doesn’t care how fast you are, and the waves don’t check your watch.
“Ocean swimming has never been about performance – it’s about participation.
“Every time you step off the sand and into the sea, you’ve already achieved something special.
“You’ve left the noise of life behind and chosen to connect with something bigger, freer, and beautifully unpredictable.
“That’s what it’s all about – showing up, getting salty, soaking it in.
“Your journey is yours alone.
“You don’t need to prove yourself to anyone – not the seasoned swimmers, your mates, or your GPS watch.
“If you want to track something, track how often you smile, how calm you feel when you finish, and how alive you are when you grab a coffee with your crew.”
Mr Macphail said that, “Without the support of Coffs Harbour City Council, Quality Hotel City Centre, Andersens Carpets, Coffs and Sawtell Swim Squad, Stocks and Hogan, Promised Land Produce, Kennards and Coffs Harbour Yacht Club this event could not proceed.”
More details on the event can be found on the club’s facebook page as well as the Ocean Swims page.
By Andrea FERRARI
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