Ocean swim a good way to test the water

Organisers are hoping for a big turnout at this year’s Margaret River Ocean Swim on January 21.

The event is in its seventh year and takes swimmers on a one kilometre course around Gnarabup Beach, with all ages encouraged to enter.

Event organiser Charlotte O’Beirne said the ocean swim was a good start for people preparing for competitions or looking for a fun day out.

“Some people will bring their kids, some people will do it with their partners,” she said.

“It’s about giving people a chance to have fun and be healthy and enjoying the great outdoors.”

Mrs O’Beirne said some residents took part in the ocean swim as a “gentle stepping stone” for bigger events such as the Busselton Jetty Swim and the Rottnest Channel Swim.

She said a helicopter and jet ski rescue crews would monitor the action.

Registration will begin at 7am for an 8am racing start, and entry costs $20.

Mrs O’Beirne thanked the Shire of Augusta-Margaret River and sponsors for supporting the event and providing prizes.