Pacific Jules

23/05/13 - Cloudy, Rainy and Grey... but NEVER Dull!

53 swimmers rose to a challenge today, coming out on this cloudy, raining, cold, stinker of a morning!! Thursdays have been beautiful ever since I started blogging 6 months ago... but today it was miserable! Saying that, are we glad we did it? Of course. You NEVER regret a swim, particularly a Bold and Beautiful swim! 

There is a kind of closer camaraderie on these sort of days. We know we have pushed ourselves out of our comfort zone by getting out of bed and not just being a 'Fair Weather Swimmer'. We are the hard-cores! We also know it could be the day we swim with a whale, dolphins or even a giant pink jelly fish! And some of us swam with a turtle today!

The morning light and sunrises have been gorgeous lately but today it was thick cloud with no glowing colours or cloud patterns. But the ocean was flatter than ever, calm and inviting and it had got warmer with the rain to 21.1 degrees!

There were only a handful of early lappers today. Anne E was really happy to get a parking spot. She's driven from North Sydney and amongst our small group of 56 there is John from Rose Bay, me from Avalon and the Northbridge boys. Some Manlyites on the other hand, couldn't be bothered to walk a few metres and missed a great swim! 

Shady Shaun comes back from an early lap with the good news. He's stopped biting his thumb nails...or rather conditions are great, visibility pefect and no stingy things!

John 007 gives us the nod that water temp is up to 21, and writes it on the ticking off sheet.

Lips has been missing Little Sarah but takes off early with Baby Jane today.

Swimmers are grinners even on cloudy days!

I meet a new swimmer John who tells me it's his 33rd consecutive swim since he discovered the B&B. 'It's sensational, a revelation', he said. These stories are great to hear! The B&B swim has improved the quality of life of so many people. Thank you Jules and team!

Renae has just signed up to do Robbie's Winter Without Wetsuit for Charity Challenge and so has Jules Mackin. Good on ya guys!

(Just a tip, the best way to get warm so that you can survive the Winter without wetsuit is to run up and down the steps like Midge and Storchy just before the swim!)

Our new blog tarts at The Point, the lovely Richard, Jill and Ros...

Some divers are observing something interesting half way to Shelly. Yay, it's the turtle, I've seen it at last! I knew this miserable looking day would bring some nice surprise, it always does! So sorry you missed it Elaine K ;-)

At Shelly, I insist on a group photo, another good reason to swim on  gloomy day with fewer people. You could get on the B&B calendar!

Love this photo of swimmers in action on the way back from Shelly. 

It's always worth going close to the rocks on the way back, you never know what marine wonders you may come across. The yellowtail and kingfish look amazing reflecting off the white rocks near the yellow shed at Halfway.

The groper around The Point seems extra specially blue today.

The post swim banter outside, and in the toilets changing, is as good as ever, proving to us that the whole swim experience was sooo worth getting out of bed for, whatever the weather...

Bluewater Cafe for the special $10 breakfast was especially warm and cosy this morning. And for those of you who think you couldn't possibly swim and then get ready and off to work, look at our dapper John Kelly. He gets lots of female attention. Lori can't stop sniffing him!

It was once again a wonderful swim. We may not have had the perfection of the last few weeks with the gorgeous sunrises, light displays and sunshine but it always seems brighter in our favourite corner of the world. Our little group today braved the gloomy weather and were so glad they did! Don't ever be put off by a bit of rain or cloud folks. You know you will only be disappointed you didn't make the effort! 

See you tomorrow!

Other info and events:

WINTER BADGE – Starts June 1st. To qualify swim minimum 20 times in  7 different weeks. Each week starts on a Monday and there are 14 weeks in the season.

AND if you go without a wetsuit you also qualify for the Winter Without Wetsuit (WWW) badge! Put a W by your name every time you tick the attendance.

To celebrate the start of Winter Badge Season which is a Saturday (1 June) – please come down wearing a ONE-SIE (or jumpsuit) – the funnier the better!!

AND let's make it a charity event!

Please bring a gold coin on Sat June 1st and we will donate it to the Royal Far West Hopsital!

******

Speaking of badges there is also another NEW BADGE – the 500 km badge! See the Pacific Challenge top left of the blog to see how many km's you've swum – if you've hit 500 or more you get a badge....(for $10)

33 People have already qualified for their badge – they will be presented at our NEXT monthly dinner at Bluewater – Tuesday 4^th June at 6.30pm (or any time after that night). See the “management” for more details!

ALSO at the above dinner one of our swimmers Dr Ray Hodgson will be giving a talk about the work he does in Nepal with women who suffer prolapse after child birth. He organises trips for volunteers for 2 week stints and is always looking out for more volunteers to go to Nepal and help. If you want to hear from someone who is making a difference to peoples lives and want to find out what you can do to help, then come along to the dinner.

TO BOOK INTO THE NEXT MONTHLY DINNER PLEASE RSVP HERE!! 

We want to get as MANY people as we can that night so we can book the whole restaurant out!!!!  Remember it's only $20 for a starter AND main course of delicious food!! Desserts and drinks are only $5 each and no corkage on wine!! Bluwater now offer a special $25 menu too.

******

Special offer from Whitewater . . .

Exclusive offer for all the Bold and the Beautiful swimmers, Whitewater is pleased to offer all Bold and Beautiful swimmers 25% off your entire bill *(valued up to $30). Join us for lunch or dinner at Whitewater restaurant, Manly. Please mention this offer when making your reservation to ensure you receive the discount. Reservations: call 02 9977 0322 or email info@whitewaterrestaurant.com.au. Offer valid until 30th June 2013 * not valid in conjunction with any other offer * Only one discount per bill *Discount does not apply for breakfast

Izzy's MMMs (Manly Movies Mob) is on this coming Tuesday 28th May, all welcome!

******

Staying safe

While there has been little wave action to test the surf skills, you never know when the sea will show its turbulent side. Stay safe by knowing how to read the signs with these water safety tips courtesy of champion Ironman Craig 'Riddo' Riddington. It’s a great read and can help keep you safe in the surf. To read, or even download click here.

 

*****

A plug for one of our Sponsors!

 B&B swimmers can purchase high quality towels, and a fantastic range of linen  (including bedroom linen) at discounted cheap prices direct from one of our generous, long standing sponsors, Legend.  Visit anytime during opening hours at 33 Cross Street, Brookvale, show your B&B discount card and happy shopping!

 

The Stats

Regulars: Only 53 'hard cores'

Newbies: 1

Water Temp: 21.1 degrees

Air Temp: 12 

Sunrise: 6.45am

Sunset: 4.57pm

High Tide 6.16am

Low Tide 12.14pm

 Signing off Lainey Loo aka Elaine xx

 

22/05/2013 - Absolutely bl**dy awful!! :-D

HAHA ...NOT ...this is about the 8th week in a row, surely?? that we've had this great weather, warm seas and it was possibly the clearest yet??

Although...

Judging by this pic it seems to be gloomy (and not many BnB'ers) but it's ALL an

illusion...because YES  it's still glorious...

No trick camera work for me - this is the real thing! :-D

John S.

I spotted the turtle swimming along the bottom this time - well away from bloggers camera's and I didn't tell anyone!

Marije

Bloggers Nick and Stephen fighting it out for the photo of the week!

Yellow tails taking off!

Jane taking off!

Yep bloody awful! :-)

******

Just in from Dr John Jackson: As some of you may be aware, Rob Byrne has initiated an effort for some of the softies, sorry wet-suities, to swim a winter WITHOUT a wetsuit for charity... Unfortunately it looks like Rob is already really struggling and it's not even June - based on the latest scientific calculations, by the end of July he's likely to look a lot like my (Dr John's) Dad! :-D

ps. see Rob if you wanna join him and raise money for his chosen charity Bear Cottage

******

 Amazing jellyfish shots taken by Stephen yesterday and doing a great modelling job alongside is Richard Glover. 3rd one down, Richard, one for your Facebook page!!

 

Other info and events:

WINTER BADGE – Starts June 1 To qualify swim minimum 20 times in at least 7 different weeks. Each week starts on a Monday and there are 14 weeks in the season.

AND if you go without a wetsuit you also qualify for the Winter Without Wetsuit (WWW) badge! Put a W by your name every time you tick the attendance.

To celebrate the start of Winter Badge Season which is a Saturday (1 June) – please come down wearing a ONE-SIE (or jumpsuit) – the funnier the better!!

AND let's make it a charity event!

Please bring a gold coin on Sat June 1st and we will donate it to the Royal Far West Hopsital!

******

Speaking of badges there is also another NEW BADGE – the 500 km badge! See the Pacific Challenge top left of the blog to see how many km's you've swum – if you've hit 500 or more you get a badge....(for $10)

33 People have already qualified for their badge – they will be presented at our NEXT monthly dinner at Bluewater – Tuesday 4^th June at 6.30pm (or any time after that night). See the “management” for more details!

ALSO at the above dinner one of our swimmers Dr Ray Hodgson will be giving a talk about the work he does in Nepal with women who suffer prolapse after child birth. He organises trips for volunteers for 2 week stints and is always looking out for more volunteers to go to Nepal and help. If you want to hear from someone who is making a difference to peoples lives and want to find out what you can do to help, thencome along to the dinner.

TO BOOK INTO THE NEXT MONTHLY DINNER PLEASE RSVP HERE!! 

We want to get as MANY people as we can that night so we can book the whole restaurent out!!!!  Remember it's only $20 for a starter AND main course of delicious food!!

******

Special offer from Whitewater . . .

Exclusive offer for all the Bold and the Beautiful swimmers, Whitewater is pleased to offer all Bold and Beautiful swimmers 25% off your entire bill *(valued up to $30). Join us for lunch or dinner at Whitewater restaurant, Manly. Please mention this offer when making your reservation to ensure you receive the discount. Reservations: call 02 9977 0322 or email info@whitewaterrestaurant.com.au

Open weekends for breakfast 8am to 11.30am, Daily for lunch from 12pm to 5pm, Dinner from 5pm to late... * Offer valid until 30th June 2013 * not valid in conjunction with any other offer * Only one discount per bill *Discount does not apply for breakfast

******

Staying safe

While there has been little wave action to test the surf skills, you never know when the sea will show its turbulent side. Stay safe by knowing how to read the signs with these water safety tips courtesy of champion Ironman Craig 'Riddo' Riddington. It’s a great read and can help keep you safe in the surf. To read, or even download click here.

 

 

The Stats

Regulars: 112

Newbies: 2

Water Temp: 20.4 degrees

Air Temp: 10!

Sunrise: 6.44am

Sunset: 4.58pm

 

 

Lesbutt :-D

 

21/05/13 – Running out of words for perfection

The conditions remain flawless!  With the water temperature at 20.4 degrees (ok it was 11 degrees out of the water. . . ), stunning, golden sunrise and 103 swim buddies, the conditions are immaculate for a morning swim.  Can you beleive that it is only one month to the winter solstice?

The early crowd gathers in the sun.

Then within five minutes there is an explosion of people.

 

Conferring with the early lappers we find that the water is warmish, visibility is good but jumbles are about.  That is it for me – the wetsuit is perfect protection from these little nasties.

 

A salutation to the sun is the first part of the water entry ritual. . .

but when the water level rises to the shoulders, a devotional chant fills the morning.  The chilling temperature does bring out the chorister in each of us. 

Once in we are ready to start the swim.

There is great visibility as we head off to Shelly.

 

 

 The sentinal yellowtails are hanging around.  One was one nibbling on a jimble which gladdened my heart!!  

Birthday celebrations at Shelly.

Before long we are heading back to Manly, although for some, this is the time to go fish hunting - with cameras of course.

The charming trevally are never camera shy!  Must have been taking lessons from a couple of our regular blog tarts.

Back in Manly it is too nice to rush.  Hanging about having a coffee is a better altnative to sitting in traffic don't you think?

There are heaps of things going on, so check out the notes below.

Have a great day.

Mary

 

WINTER BADGE - Not long to go now until the start of our Winter badge season on Saturday 1^st June. Just in case you don’t know, everyone can qualify for the winter badge – you are automatically in the running. To get the badge, all you have to do is swim on 20 occasions, and in at least 7 different weeks during Winter. Each week starts on a Monday, so there are 14 weeks in the season. For the hard core swimmers, you can also qualify for the WWW badge (Winter without wetsuit) if you do the 20 winter swims without thermal assistance. If you are swimming without wetsuit, you should write a “W” against your name every time you swim in Winter to qualify, so we can verify that you are swimming “au naturel”. Good Luck. See Lesley for tips on swimming without wetsuit through the Winter! It’s all in the mind!

To celebrate the occasion we want everyone to come down wearing a nice warm Onesie or Jumpsuit. The funnier the better! If you are shy or embarrassed, bring it down and change when you get here. You will be in the company of lots of other closet onesie owners.

AMAZING NEW BADGE - It is the Pacific Challenge 500 km badge. Really easy to qualify – just swim regularly, tick the folder and with every 1.5 km Manly-Shelly swim you will be that little bit closer. When you reach 500 km you automatically qualify for the badge – although you pay $10 for the privilege.  Please tick your name in the blue folder, to ensure every swim counts.

An amazing 33 people have already qualified for their badge!  The badges will be presented at our monthly dinner on Tuesday 4^th June at 6.30 pm (see below). To see if you are one of the lucky 33, Check here on the Pacific Challenge.  If you have qualified, can you please pay your $10 to Ian or Lesley before 4^th June. If you can’t make it to the dinner you can collect your badge any day after 4^th June.

MONTHLY DINNER - One of our swimmers, Dr Ray Hodgson, is coming along our next Bluewater Cafe Dinner at 6.30 pm on Tuesday 4th June to tell us about the amazing work he does in Nepal with women who suffer prolapse after child birth.  He organises trips for volunteers for 2 week stints and is always looking out for more volunteers to go to Nepal and help. If you want to hear from someone who is making a difference to peoples lives and want to find out what you can do to help, the come along to the dinner.

The dinner is also a great chance to catch up with your B&B friends at an informal gathering, and see what they look like with their clothes on (you may not recognise them!). The cost is excellent value at $20 for two courses, with $5 drinks, $5 desserts and no corkage for BYO wine. Bluewater also now offers $25 special meals in addition to our standard $20 deal. Bookings are essential so click here book early and avoid disappointment.  Numbers will be limited to 100.  Don’t forget, the first batch of 500 km badges will also be presented on the night so it will be a HUGE night.

 

Special offer from Whitewater . . .

Exclusive offer for all the Bold and the Beautiful swimmers, whitewater is pleased to offer all Bold and Beautiful swimmers 25% off your entire bill *(valued up to $30). Join us for lunch or dinner at whitewater restaurant, Manly. Please mention this offer when making your reservation to ensure you receive the discount. Reservations: call 02 9977 0322 or email info@whitewaterrestaurant.com.au

Open weekends for breakfast 8am to 11.30am, Daily for lunch from 12pm to 5pm, Dinner from 5pm to late... * Offer valid until 30th June 2013 * not valid in conjunction with any other offer * Only one discount per bill *Discount does not apply for breakfast

 

 

Staying safe

While there has been little wave action to test the surf skills, you never know when the sea will show its turbulent side.  Stay safe by knowing how to read the signs with these water safety tips courtesy of champion Ironman Craig 'Riddo' Riddington. It’s a great read and can help keep you safe in the surf.  To read, or even download, click here.

 

The Stats

Regulars:  103

Newbies: 2

Doublers: 3

Temp: 20.4 degrees

Sunrise: 6.44am

Sunset: 4.59pm

20/05/13 Monday Secrets About to be Revealed

As the sun rose to reveal another stunning Monday, what secrets would it reveal to this morning's 91 Bold, Beautiful and mystical swimmers?

LesButt was feeling spiritual, getting in touch with her f#2k y&0 spirits

Secret conversations were interrupted....

Wise smiles and hidden jewels trying to keep one of Cabbage Tree Bay's best kept secrets...

And some reassuring hugs as the waters were approached with trepidation...

Older and wiser members looked unperturbed having much experience in secrets kept and revealed..

Unusual patterns began appearing in the clouds..

Photo ©2013 LaineyLoo

Fish were scurrying away ...

The avuncular John Bond went off searching...

Others took the sometimes forgotten, Shizaru, 4th monkey pose (Hear no evil, See no evil, speak no evil) not knowing what to expect...

Then it appeared, without warning, something we had all swum over hundreds of times before, cleverly disguised!

The Hidden Temple of the Secret Buddha! Can you see it too, the right hand side of his face revealed with patron fish attending - also the home of the jimbles - yes, this is where they live when they're not attacking us! It's a bit like Indiana Jones & the Temple of Doom but jimbles not snakes we battle!

Buddha's lips carefully concealed from this photo resemble our own favourite Lips being the secret entrance for the jimbles!

Excitement was in the air and underwater at Shelly at the discovery!

Special hugs exuding joy.... (or was it Sue)

Others were seen imitating buddha poses and comparing buddha bellies..

The break was cut short as everyone rushed back to see if they could find the elusive Temple of the Secret Buddha and Thousand Jimbles...

Gropers and sharks joined the search...

Pilot Pete couldn't find it, despite his A380 navigation skills...

While others searched with less technical skills to no avail..

Photo ©2013 LaineyLoo

 

Back to the beach and are there some extra unknown footsteps?

 

One of our more mystical swims complete, you never know what you'll see (or not) with the B&B.

Robbie the regular Monday blogster couldn't make it today - still basking in his glory from last week's photo of the week. In a bid for more recognition, if not a tick, he's made a special YouTube of his own photos...

News Updates

At Least 4 B&B did the North Face 50km trail run in the Blue Mountains on Saturday. Fantastic efforts:

The Welsh Whippet, John Jackson, 5hrs 13m, 8th overall out of 538 entrants

Brian Black, 5hrs 28mins, 15th

Sarah Anne Evans, 6hrs 28mins, 17th female

Iain Liddell, 6hrs 46mins and 65th male

Other B&Bers were also competing in the Sydney half marathon, the Great Ocean Road Run and the Manly fun run - updates when results to hand.

Other B&Bers stuck to the water and swam the 11km South Head Roughwater from Bondi to Watson's Bay yesterday. Results were not on the web at time of blogging - more info tomorrow - amazing effort Alex, Miles and other B&Bers once we hear details!

Support one of our sponsors, Bluewater Cafe are hosting a Biggest Morning Tea next Thursday from 9am, with all proceeds going to Cancer Research. Please get a table together with friends.

On June 1 it's the start of not only Winter... but the Winter Badges! It is a Saturday and so to 'celebrate' we want everyone to come down wearing a Onesie / Jumpsuit. The funnier the better!

Free Reiki from Sweet Baby Jane!

Jane Winter (AKA Baby Jane) is an attuned Reiki 2 Practitioner and she needs to complete more hours to be eligible to become a Reiki Master. Jane is offerring complimentary Reiki Sessions out of her home in Cromer for the next two months.

 

If you don't know what Reiki is- it's a Japanese technique for stress reduction

and relaxation that promotes healing. It creates feelings of peace, security and wellbeing.

 

Please email her on jane.molly86@gmail.com or text/call on 0407 120 036

Keeping safe

NEW water safety tips courtesy of champion Ironman Craig 'Riddo' Riddington. It’s a great read and can help keep you safe in the surf. To read, or even download, click here, http://www.boldandbeautifulmanly.com.au/safety-in-the-surf.html.

Stats:

Swimmers:91

New swimmers:0

Double Trouble: 0

Water Temp: 20.0C/68.0F

Sunrise: 6.42am

Sunset: 4.59pm

Signing off from the Temple, Stephen

 

Posted with Blogsy

19/05/13 It's getting cooler

Another cracking day on Lake Manly. Let's go and see what it has to offer today.

.......and another cracking swim. Whilst the sun is shining it has definitely start to lose its warmth and the B&B crew are turning up a little more wrapped up before they strip off to swim.

There's definitely a few more wetsuits out and about.

 

We're also a compliant lot ...remembering to include that all important tick on the sign in sheets.

 

 

Cracking day for the fun run too...warmer in the water though ..so let's get in.

Synchronised swimming all the way to Shelly. With 170 of us jumping in this morning, there's bound to be a copy cat or two.

 

 The visibility is simply amazing at the moment and there are plenty of the snorkel crew enjoying great views of the underwater world.

 

My underwater photos need some work .....whereas here's some great shots from Stephen.

 

 

Lips this one is for you !

 

Shelly Beach always attracts the crowds.....and with the water temperature a bit lower we spot some funky chicken dances happening ..... 

 

.

..... Grab a partner and give it a wiggle.

.........Entering in the Frog Leg Fandango competition....

 

  

Shall we go yet JK? It's a bit nippy here!

 

Oh dear, these two forgot to shave this morning.

 

Back to South Steyne and on with the rest of our day...and all before 8am. Arhhh..thank you Manly and thank you B&B.

 Photo of the Week goes to (ow this hurts!) Robster the Monday Blogster!

 Honourable mention goes to Lesbutt's piccie of Jane during the week

http://pacificjules.typepad.com/.a/6a0133ed6f68df970b017eeb2b68f4970d-popup

 Well done to the both of you (grrrr, grrr)

Other news .........Just when you thought that LSA and Jon were back from a trip to Hong Kong/Singapore or Thailand, they were spotted moonlighting in the UK? A dark horse is our LSA with a lucrative modelling contract under her belt too. No wonder she is a Queen of Blog Tarting.

 Racy B&B'ers

Good Luck to all those swapping their swimmers for runners this morning in the various races and those who are taking part in South Head 10km swim.

Big Congratulations to our swimmers that ran in the Blue Mountains Ultra Marathon yesterday, surprisingly they didn't swim this morning ...sore muscles anyone?

LOST & FOUND ......one wetsuit in the men's changing rooms. Contact Ian Forster if its yours and you want to keep warm through Winter.

Support one of our sponsors, Bluewater Cafe are hosting a Biggest Morning Tea next Thursday from 9am, with all proceeds going to Cancer Research. Please get a table together with friends.

 

On June 1 it's the start of not only Winter... but the Winter Badges! It is a Saturday and so to 'celebrate' we want everyone to come down wearing a Onesie / Jumpsuit. The funnier the better!

Keeping safe

NEW water safety tips courtesy of champion Ironman Craig 'Riddo' Riddington. It’s a great read and can help keep you safe in the surf. To read, or even download, click here.

Stats:

Swimmers:170

New swimmers:7

Double Trouble: errr ummmm

Water Temp:19.5C

Sunrise: 6.42am

Sunset:4.59pm

Signing off:Snorkles

 

 

 

Posted with Blogsy

18/05/2013 - Greetings from Sunrise Beach

Wish you were here! Oh, you are :) All 217 of you in fact, right here inside this postcard. Good for you. Good for us. The ocean temperature has dropped below twenty - if only by 0.2 degrees - and according to the babe ticking herself off the list in the photo below, the colder the better it is for our health.

Easy for you to say, Lesley, you're HOT! And generous. This kind hearted fellow swimmer came to my rescue yet again when we discovered the communal camera had gone awol (thanks for nuttin', Robbie). And she's funny too. Dead pan jokes are second nature to Lesley, but I didn't realise practical jokes were another specialty until I find the camera battery only had enough juice for nine pics. Aaahahaha, nice one Lesley :)

There was an insignificant morning breeze, but the chill factor still kicked in, eh Alex?

Anyway, so my last good picture before the epic battery fail ocurred is this lovely one of  Mark Allan and his amazingly enthusiastic, brave and strong daughters.

But wait! There's more. Thanks to Stephen Coulter who took his camera along for the heck of it today, we have a few more photos. To boot, these ones are top quality, as we have become accustomed to from this swimotographer. Heidi, Michelle and Gabs took the opportunity to serve us an A Capella rendition of Oh What a Beautiful Morning to the delight of all who cared to stop and listen. Not many, but it's the thought that counts.

Here's Mark and daughter Laura.

Elaine snapping a snapper or some such creature.

This looks like Krystyna to me but do let me know in the comment field if I got it wrong.

Stephen has a Phd in Marine Photography, majoring in the Giant Cuttlefish Population of Cabbage Tree Bay and Beyond. I believe he's on a first name basis with all of them. This one is Mr Zoidberg to you and me though.

The turtle was spotted again this morning, unfortunately not by me or anyone with a camera as far as I know, but here is a sample of some of their food. Come on turtle, eat up!

And I don't care what people have been saying lately about Lesley's photogenic talents, (no let's not go there), here's proof that this is one ELIGIBLE bachelorette (It's ok Les, you can pay me tomorrow morning. Please remember the brown paper bag).

Today is Nicolee's birthday!! Hip hooray for a terrific person who always has a kind word and a hug to share. Maureen made her a birthday cake which was consumed by a large gathering of freshly swum swimmers. There must have been someone around with a camera (with batteries!) who can submit a photo of this celebration. Please send it to Lesley who will be more than happy to add it on the blog as part of a special deal I have with her relating to posting flattering pics of said lady.

Swimmers: 217

New Swimmers: 5

Water: 19.8 C

Sunrise: 6:42am

Sunset: 5:00pm

Bluewater Cafe are hosting a Biggest Morning Tea next Thursday from 9am, with all proceeds going to Cancer Research. Please get a table together with friends.

I got badly stung by those frickin jimbles on both arms this morning, and it hurt some. Our lovely Rainer, aka Lips, who knows a thing or two about stingers (hence the nickname after his lips looked like an ad for hyperliposuction due to a nasty jellyfish encounter once), took some evidential photos of my arms for the sole purpose of me trying to drum up sympathy and free drinks at our next Bluewater get-together. Can you see? I'm so upset.

Ok that wasn't strictly true. There's a lot worse that can happen to someone than getting stung while swimming in perfect conditions with great friends around. Ask me.

Furthermore, how can I be upset when I have just overtaken THE Julie Isbill, Founder of the B&B & Inspirateur Exceptionelle, on the Pacific Challenge. Woo-hoo. Hence my initial greeting from Sunrise Beach which is way up the coast in sunny Queensland. Michael Christie, I'm after you now with only 72 swims to go. And I'll have you know that I am only 61 swims away from my 1,000km badge. Let's go celebrate.

With love from Girl Friday blogger Anna who swapped with Crikey Nick Saturday Blogstar this week. X

17/5/13 - It's Happy Friday!

Happy Friday everyone! Where did that week go?

I hope we don;t get too used to all the perfect weather, flat seas and awesome visibility. Let's face it.. when everyone's happy it shows... and here's a few of this morning's faces just to prove it....

Happy....

So happy....

Someone's happy to be back....

Jules - you're looking happy this morning....

These guys are always happy... Clowning comes easy to some...

Did anyone hear the "Let's go" on the point? JK was probably laughing at the time....

Chloe is going to LA and then back to Mel-Vegas (cos that's what you do)

I particularly enjoyed informing here there were a few sharks underneath her this morning... You can tell it was after this pic was taken... Have a great trip Chloe!

Lauren is going back to USA and has asked me to announce she will be back soon, so she can deliver another happy "let's go" at Shelley - just like this one below...

Did we mention it's super clear right now?

We've got Yellowtail, Cuttlefish, Duskies, Puffy the puffer fish (Nicki Brake's fav!)

Kingfish, Old Wives, Flathead, The little banner fish, Blue Grouper...

....all happily swimming under us every morning!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stats:

Swimmers: 130

New Swimmers: 0!

Water: 20c

Sunrise: 6:40am

Sunset: 5:02pm

********************************************************

Safety Tips from Michael and Riddo

********************************************************

Nick D - Filling in today for Anna who'll be back tomorrow!

 

 

16/05/13 - A Special Swim with Special People.

110 swimmers enjoyed another magnificent swim this morning across Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve... Last week, Mary's swim blog got mentioned in the newspaper for using the word 'perfect' so many times,  describing our swim. Today the word is special...special sunrise, special aquatic conditions, special marine life and of course special people!

Oops sorry wrong photo! That was taken yesterday on an English beach as the Pommies approach their Summer. As we approach our Australian Winter (in 2 weeks time) it looks like this below. As a humble Brummy, (person born in Birmingham,UK),  I thank all you Australians for having me. I love Austalia and doing these swims makes me even happier to be here!

(Sorry about the blog tarts who got in the way of the beach photo ;)

Sorry to be repetitive in this blog but yes it was another ahh...mazing sunrise! 

It's a great time of year to be doing an early swim.

I came across a special person at The Sunrise Lookout spot UPSIDE DOWN! 

As swimmers start to arrive it's nice to see Little Sarah doing her bit for the community. She has brought her 'special' friend along for a swim.

More special people arrive...Robster is sharing his 'Bucket List' with Seb (100 Things), one is to do a full Ironman and another to go to Nepal and be a Doctor's assistant...

Look at that beach and it's only 7am! Nick has seen something he likes. (Lesbutt won the competition Nick, we aren't playing anymore!)

We enter the water and it's feeling quite warm being 5 degrees more than air temp. Henchy Jon looks like a movie star without his beanie and glasses!

Anne E comes back from her early lap. Look at the early morning light, isn't it beautiful? And in second photo Bella jumps in with Toni and Renae.

 

And in to that warm(ish), flat, calm ocean we go. At 20.4 degrees today.

It's another swim with loads of fish, great visibility and excited shrieks as swimmers stop and shout 'turtle', 'dusky' or 'old wives' along the way!

Yes, there was a turtle again today but most of us didn't see it. Elaine K's friend did. Elaine was gutted she didn't see it!

On the way back from Shelly I am followed by a bunch of blog tarts. I tell them, 'You can only be in a photo if there are fish in it too!' They try, they really do. 

I spot a bright yellow, stripy fish I've never see before. Did anyone else see it?

Then we see the porcupine fish hiding between the rocks.

 Stephen sees the biggest cuttlefish he's seen before.

 

Mauricio filmed an amazing video of duskies close up, butterfly fish and others. Watch it here. Thank you M, you are incredible! 

 http://youtu.be/kgf_EjEXSgI 

 Would like to include a couple of photos of mine from Tuesday's swim. Below we have our ever friendly swimmer, 'Sparkles'. She is practising for her forthcoming ballet appearance at The Opera House entitled, 'Dancing with Wobbegongs.' The talent we have here within our B&B group!

She is keeping a 'respectful distance' from this beautiful wobbegong that swam gracefully beneath us on the way back around The Point on Tuesday. Remember to keep at least 5 metres away folks!

Talking of 'Special People', one of our swimmers Dr Ray Hodgson, is coming along to the next Bluewater Dinner on Tuesday 4th June to tell us about the amazing work he does in Nepal. He gives women their dignity back after suffering prolapse after child birth. He performs a simple operation which they wouldn't otherwise get access to. He organises trips for 2 week stints and is always looking out for volunteers to go and help. This might be of interest to some of you kind and caring souls who want to make a difference and do something really worthwhile. Please come along and tell all of your friends who may be interested too. We really need to get good numbers to take over Bluewater Cafe that night so please come!

The dinner is a great chance to catch up with your B&B friends and see them spruced up too, so please book in now. We also should support the fantastic Bluewater Cafe who give us such a good deal in the mornings, $10 for brekkie including coffee/tea. Everyone is welcome so please come after the swim if you haven't already and squeeze in on the tables down the back!

Bluewater Cafe are hosting a Biggest Morning Tea next Thursday, all proceeds to Cancer Research. Please get a table together with friends. From 9am.

A lot of us have really missed swimming with Alyson ...Well she is doing well after a difficult birth with Lukas weighing in at 12 pounds! Here he is with his pink cap and B&B bib and lovely Martin and Aly!

Shannon Quartly's Dad thoroughly enjoyed his B&B swims whilst over from Canada on holidays. He sent this photo of himself  about to swim in a freezing Lake Samasat, Vancouver! Watch your wedgie Glynn!

Oh and good luck to everyone in the Sydney Half Marathon on Sunday. I'll be running with my friend ;)

 Thank you all for joining me this Thursday on such a special swim!

Lainey Loo aka Elaine xx 

Swim Stats

110 regular swimmers,    around 18 early lappers, 1  newbie

Air Temp   15 degrees Water Temp  20.04

Sunrise 6.40am

Sunset 5.01pm

Low Tide 6.31am

High Tide 12.36pm

 

15/05/2013 - Freakish weather conditions...not....!!

 I was so 'busy minding' this Howly dog who ran off attached to it's owners bag! ...that I was ill prepared for today's blog (that's my excuse anyway!) :-D

 

Yeah you won't BELIEVE it, but it was lovely AGAIN today!! Water still ok, not TOO cold!!

It's great how we all adjusted to moving from the surf club and just make do with whatever is available....bags by the dog-wee tree and all :-)

Once a week Rainer aka Lips does Community Service and takes his special friend for a swim with BnB. 

Some people can swim so fast, to and from Shelly in 20 minutes - others wear masks and snorkels and take their time. Some with wetsuits and flippers and others au-naturale.........

....even people with one arm in the air...  either way ALL are welcome to join us because the ocean is for everyone to enjoy!

Just when we thought we'd seen all there was to see :-D - another unusual jelly was spotted at the point!

Rusty became an Australian Citizen today! Congrats Mate!

Lori.... those Monday Nights sessions with Nick are paying off!
This jimble got me on the knee! It has a fish inside! By the way remember TURTLES eat jimbles so we want to keep them around!

 blue groper...
Jane...

Robster..

Jane groping Robster :-D

All arrived back safely and unaccounted for! :-D

 ******

A message from Jules posted yesterday on Comments:

How lucky are we !!! Seriously to swim in the best part of the world every single morning with wonderful like minded friends, and then to top it off with the absolute privilege of swimming with such an amazing array of marine life and in their natural habitat. Really we are just soooo privileged.

PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE HOWEVER, RESPECT THAT WE ARE IN THEIR TERRITORY, PLEASE SWIM AT A SAFE DISTANCE FROM ALL OUR MARINE LIFE SO THEY'RE FREE TO SWIM WHERE THEY CHOOSE.

Also, turtles need to come to the surface to breathe, so please ensure you don't crowd them, so they can come up safely when they choose.

If our beautiful marine life swim to you, fabulous, enjoy it, but please ensure collectively we allow them enough space so they enjoy the experience too, that way they're more likely to hang around so everyone can get a chance to see them, plus the creature might come back again tomorrow too if we're lucky.

THANK YOU

 ******

OOH and please come to Murray's TONIGHT as Ian has a special announcement about a NEW BADGE we are doing!!

******

The Stats

Regulars: 123  

Newbies: 1

Water Temp: 20.4 degrees

Air Temp: 10

Sunrise: 6.40am

Sunset: 5.02pm

 

By for now: Lesbutt :-D

 

14/05/13 – A matter of perspective

How did you find this morning - dark, a little drizzly, and oh so warm under the doona?  Well, if motivation lost out to comfort, you missed a special day.

It was disappointing there was no spectacular sunrise to capture for the blog.  Instead the grey cloud and light rain that made everything look grainy.  Ok, there was a little grumbling until a man with a sunny smile caused me to adjust my perspective; to be in the present and look at what is around you.

The grey morning brings out the beautiful steely blue in the rocks around the point.

 

There is also the inventiveness of sharing a warm shower after the early morning swim. 

 

The togetherness of welcoming friends.

 

Or the camaraderie of early morning Queensie swim.

 

While we might have been looking to the sky for that special blend of pink and blue, here it was in the middle of the squad!

It was also the morning that proved the existence of the turtle! Stephen's photo is a little more pink than mine.

Just after the point a small group came to a stop as the turtle swam by.  Stephen Coulter captured the moment with a little video. 

 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uisUKnVVkIE&feature=youtu.be

The visibility was great today – who needs sun!!  While waiting at Shelly it was worth keeping your face in the water ‘cause you never know what will swim past.  Thanks and apologies to the squad that patiently waited at Shelly for those distracted by the marine life.  Thankfully, the water is warm(ish).

So if the turtle was not astonishing enough, the cuttlefish put on a display!  Just off Shelly I was delighted to see one swim by, then stop and change colour.  Then the reason for this behaviour became apparent – and even bigger cuttlefish!!  WOW.

 

A sprint across the bay and there was Stephen with another cuttlefish!!

All this frolicking took it toll and I was caught in a school crossing zone. . .

The lovely serenity of the morning was all around us – it is just a matter of taking a moment to adjust your perspective...  

'cause there is always someone pleased to see you down at the swim.

Have a great day;

 

Mary

 

For the diary . . .

Tomorrow night is B&B drinks and dance moves at Murrays.   You may not know that in addition to happy hour drink prices a flash of the awesome B&B card will give you 10% discount on meals. Simply show your card along with the Murray's sticker (they give you this on arrival for drinks) to redeem the offer. 

Come along from 6:30pm to eat, drink and make merry.

 

Staying safe

While there has been little wave action to test the surf skills, you never know when the sea will show its turbulent side.  Stay safe by knowing how to read the signs with these water safety tips courtesy of champion Ironman Craig 'Riddo' Riddington. It’s a great read and can help keep you safe in the surf.  To read, or even download, click here.

 

The Stats

Regulars:  101

Newbies: 1

Temp: 20.4 degrees (or there abouts. . .)

Sunrise: 6.39am

Sunset: 5.04pm