Short, sharp swim helps nourish our state

Join us in taking a short, sharp swim to mark the Winter Solstice and raise vital funds to help Tasmanians battling hunger during the cold winter months.

Loaves and Fishes Tasmania is hoping to raise more than $50,000 as brave swimmers get sponsors to encourage them to take a three-minute dip at either Preservation Bay, Penguin on Sunday, June 23, or Kingston Beach on Sunday, June 30. Both swims start at 8am.

We encourage healthy competition, as there are prizes on offer for the highest individual and team fundraisers, and each event ends with hot breakfast rolls provided by the local surf clubs.

The annual Solstice Swims provide statewide free emergency food relief for Tasmanians often having to choose between heating and eating during the colder months.

Loaves and Fishes provides fresh produce, emergency food hampers, ready-to-eat meals and school breakfasts and lunches to tens of thousands of Tasmanians every week.

CEO Andrew Hillier said the three-minute ocean dip is meant to be uncomfortable to remind participants that many of their neighbours are experiencing stress and pain as they battle cost of living pressures.

“I invite you to take the plunge with us,” Andrew said.

“Those of us taking part can alleviate our slight discomfort with a hot shower and a meal, but the pain is ongoing and acute for one-in-three Tasmanians experiencing severe food insecurity.

“This is a very simple and yet profound way of loving our neighbour.”

The swims form a key component of our annual Winter Appeal and enable Loaves and Fishes to deliver food and hope to those who need it most.

It’s free and simple to sign up for the swim.