Battling a deluge of rain, around 1,000 people braved a cold Sunday in April to participate in the Balmoral swim. The long-standing annual event raised almost $112,000 for the Children’s Cancer Institute, with figures still to be finalised. The highlight of this year’s event was a push to get swimmers from all abilities involved, with Mosman Council providing a ramp down to the water.
Former Wallaby Richard Tombs was one swimmer who championed the participation of people with a disability, emerging from the water into his wheelchair with his fists raised. Hundreds of school children entered the Challenge Shield, which was won by St Ignatius College, Riverview.
The schools collectively raised $30,200 and counting. In the corporate relay, the sailors from HMAS Penguin proved that Navy officers are the fittest in the water once again, remaining undefeated for many years.