The Lions Christmas Day Harbour Swim took place this morning, 25 December 2025, with hundreds of brave swimmers gathering to celebrate one of the community’s most cherished festive traditions. However, this year’s event took an unexpected turn when organisers made the difficult decision to cancel the remaining swims after the first group of 30 participants completed the crossing.
Despite the winter chill and water temperatures of around 8 degrees Celsius, the initial group successfully swam the 70-metre stretch across the harbour, cheered on by enthusiastic spectators lining the waterfront. Many had arrived in festive costumes, ready to take part or support loved ones, helping create what began as a lively and good-humoured Christmas morning atmosphere.
But after monitoring early conditions in the water, organisers raised safety concerns and decided it was not advisable for the event to continue. With participant wellbeing as their priority, they announced the cancellation of the remaining swims, expressing disappointment but stressing that the decision was made in the best interests of everyone involved.
The Lions Christmas Day Harbour Swim has a rich history dating back to 1948, when a friendly Christmas Eve bet between pub landlord Dill Laker and taxi driver Reggie Bugler resulted in a spontaneous harbour challenge. What started as a light-hearted wager has since grown into a major annual tradition cherished by the community for more than seven decades.
Even with the shortened event, the spirit of the swim lived on. Participants and supporters once again showed generosity, raising vital funds for local charities and community initiatives. Organisers thanked everyone for their understanding and support, acknowledging the community’s enthusiasm, courage and goodwill.
Though circumstances prevented the full event from taking place, the Lions Christmas Day Harbour Swim remains a powerful symbol of togetherness and festive spirit—values that continue to define the tradition, just as they have since that memorable first swim in 1948.
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