Our History
For the past 25 years an ocean swim has been held on the first Sunday in May from Wategos Beach to Main Beach, Byron Bay. The Byron Bay Property Sales Ocean Swim Classic is approximately 2.5 kilometres and is open to all swimmers over 12 years. It now attracts over 2,000 swimmers and over 5,000 spectators.
Since 2008 a mini swim has also been held as a fun event to introduce swimmers to the joys of ocean swimming. The 800 metre course from Clarkes Beach to Main Beach is open to all swimmers over the age of 9.
In 2013 we have two new major sponsors: Byron Bay Property Sales, sponsoring the Ocean Swim Classic and Ky Hurst, sponsoring the Mini Swim. The swims are run by the Byron Bay Winter Whales to solely raise funds for charity. They are part of The Great Australian Swim Series - and will be the first of five in the series.
Community Donations
All profits from entry fees and sponsorship are donated to local charities including Camp Quality, Westpac Helicopter Rescue, Breast and Prostate Cancer Organisations, Marine Rescue, Byron Bay Surf Club, St Johns Ambulance, Salvation Army and Early Intervention etc. To date, the Byron Bay Winter Whales have distributed over $524,000 to various charities.
The Swim won the 2012 Byron Shire Community Event of the Year.
