Pacific Jules

30.11.2019 "It's a new day, it's a new dawn.......

As November 2019 closes, the bash and crash of daily life that has filled this seemingly, faster moving year seems to be easing.

I found myself humming this song and checked out the lyrics, which seemed finer words that I could muster myself.

And so apt for the joy, that is the B&B.Six days of swimming leaves me Feelin...Good

So wishing you all a top weekend of whatever you do and thanks Steph for swimming with me this morning.

And thanks also Kate for photo support.

In the words of Nina Simone

Feelin Good

Birds flying high you know how I feel
Sun in the sky you know how I feel
Breeze driftin' on by you know how I feel

It's a new dawn
It's a new day
It's a new life for me yeah

It's a new dawn, it's a new day, it's a new life for me
And I'm feeling good

Fish in the sea, you know how I feel
River running free, you know how I feel
Blossom on the tree, you know how I feel

It's a new dawn
It's a new day
It's a new life
For me
And I'm feeling good

So many smiles on the beachfront today.....

Smily Suz, Annie and BK                                                                                Smiley niece Grace and BK

B
Kate and Jackie                                                                            Unknown smiley faces

Conditions were looking a bit bumpy, however the water was clean and fresh and around 20 degrees. The 6.30am peeps pottered out, followed

by the larger 7am throng.

Other news

I call this "Annie and John talking goggles..."                    Some favorite B&B crazy cats

The Fab Four ...Annie, Anne, John (you can shave it off tomorrow Kelly) and Snazzy Suz.

Post swim glow for the blog team and coffee at Hakan's - bring it on ....

And finally ...

Steve has a new image....his agent tells us that he is going to be on the telly !!

Swimmers hundreds

Newbies 6

Temperature 20

Ocean Festival

Sun 24 Nov - Sun 1 Dec

Celebrate our oceans in this week-long festival stretching from Manly to Palm Beach. Events include:

Ocean Trivia at Harbord Diggers on Monday 25^th 7 pm – 9pm  

‘Science at The Steyne’ Tuesday 26^th 6.30pm – 8.30pm

Art Meets Science Wed 27 Nov  6.30 – 8.30pm – Ruby Lane, Mona Vale 

Ocean Care Day – Sun 1^st Dec  10am  – 4pm

Operation Crayweed Snorkel Tour  + much more…

https://www.northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/whats-on/ocean-festival

A Note from Emma G.

Hello B & B’ers. Next week we are are raising money for an amazing organisation the Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind Children (RIDBC) with @qantaspathfinders - come along and see our great little cast make you laugh and maybe pee a little.
From Tuesday the 26th til sat the 30th - get your tickets from the link below to come and support and raise vital money for this amazing organisation ❤🎅🤶🎄
https://norths.com.au/events/qantas-pathfinders-revue-2019-a-qantas-christmas-story/?fbclid=IwAR1UF4nm7a4qsME--50SISOs929-LHlwZaQWX4lahGIrJnNx1MFiAKR30Ik 

B&B FUNDRAISING CHRISTMAS PARTY

NO TICKETS WILL BE FOR SALE AT THE DOOR!!

Please book early for the B & B Christmas Party, which will be held on Tuesday 10^th December at 6.30 pm in Henry's Rooftop Bar (2^nd Floor) at the Steyne Hotel. All swimmers and partners/friends are welcome (no under 18s unfortunately). The theme is simply “Christmas”, so come dressed in your finest Christmas paraphernalia. The music this year will again be provided by the band, “Gluteus Maximus”, who play two types of music, Rock and Roll! The cost is $15 per head, with all proceeds going to the running costs of the B&B. Book now! Don’t miss out on this fun event, as numbers are limited. Book HERE now!

 

Members only, but everyone can join

Groucho Marx (or was it Karl) is quoted as having said that he would not join a club that would have him as a member. I am glad BB does not have any criteria for membership because if there was a technique or time cut off, I would have missed some excellent and regular swimming that I really enjoy. 

Now Mick and Chris from Yamba (mentioned in peter's blog yesterday too) have had a great idea - they are travelling from swim to swim. They have swum with the Harold Holt-ers at Bundeena recently but swam with us yesterday and today. It was lovely to meet them - they are great swimmers.

I went off to halfway and from there walked to Shelly to enter the swim. The waves were strong and crashing. I enjoyed watching the skilled ocean swimmers go in and so did these swimmers.

The water was warm but did not immediately feel that way under the cloud

the swimmer on the left moved back to Manly to swim. Good choice.

Swimmers look similar with caps on so I  have some photos of swimmers with hair showing to demonstrate the diversity of swimmers that join BB.

 

Ross enjoying John's moustache. Movember is so enjoyable. A child of the 70s, i am very fond of moustaches especially a handlebar one - see below

Texting someone about the swim. I think

Isn't it great that this swimmer has brought his moustache today 

Father and daughter team 

shower scene

Finished the swim, dressed and ready for the day. Beautiful

Some going to Shelly

And some coming back

Halfway was dodgy today. It needs a truck load of sand. the little concrete wall is slippery so needs some step treads. Etc. Or you can go to Shelly

Glamour at Shelly

The best - Ted

More glamour 

I shouted (loudly) to this group to stop for a photo and caused a bit of excitement. Yay







This swimmer swam at the same time as BB but not "with" BB. Maybe next time she will join

Great goggles

 

 

Swimmers 120 

Newbies 5 

Temperature 20

Ocean Festival

Sun 24 Nov - Sun 1 Dec

Celebrate our oceans in this week-long festival stretching from Manly to Palm Beach. Events include:

Ocean Trivia at Harbord Diggers on Monday 25^th 7 pm – 9pm  

‘Science at The Steyne’ Tuesday 26^th 6.30pm – 8.30pm

Art Meets Science Wed 27 Nov  6.30 – 8.30pm – Ruby Lane, Mona Vale 

Ocean Care Day – Sun 1^st Dec  10am  – 4pm

Operation Crayweed Snorkel Tour  + much more…

https://www.northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/whats-on/ocean-festival

A Note from Emma G.

Hello B & B’ers. Next week we are are raising money for an amazing organisation the Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind Children (RIDBC) with @qantaspathfinders - come along and see our great little cast make you laugh and maybe pee a little.
From Tuesday the 26th til sat the 30th - get your tickets from the link below to come and support and raise vital money for this amazing organisation ❤🎅🤶🎄
https://norths.com.au/events/qantas-pathfinders-revue-2019-a-qantas-christmas-story/?fbclid=IwAR1UF4nm7a4qsME--50SISOs929-LHlwZaQWX4lahGIrJnNx1MFiAKR30Ik 

B&B FUNDRAISING CHRISTMAS PARTY

NO TICKETS WILL BE FOR SALE AT THE DOOR!!

Please book early for the B & B Christmas Party, which will be held on Tuesday 10^th December at 6.30 pm in Henry's Rooftop Bar (2^nd Floor) at the Steyne Hotel. All swimmers and partners/friends are welcome (no under 18s unfortunately). The theme is simply “Christmas”, so come dressed in your finest Christmas paraphernalia. The music this year will again be provided by the band, “Gluteus Maximus”, who play two types of music, Rock and Roll! The cost is $15 per head, with all proceeds going to the running costs of the B&B. Book now! Don’t miss out on this fun event, as numbers are limited. Book HERE now!

 

What I am reading

I am enjoying another Virgil Flowers Minnesota cop book, Holy Ghost. It is like the Kinky Friedman books. Light, silly crime novels. 

 

Thursday 28 November Grateful for every moment

Like me you likely have been touched by illness, and after you stop feeling sorry for yourself you start setting yourself little goals, and the bigger the illness the smaller the goals get. When I got crook a little while back my goals were simple ones like getting back into the water which I did last week and getting back to blogging which I do today after six weeks off. It’s more about gratitude than goal setting, grateful for the ocean and for the wonderful people I get to share it with. People to look forward to seeing, the ones who encourage you to be your best.

The benefits of practicing gratitude are nearly endless. People who regularly practice gratitude experience more positive emotions, feel more alive, sleep better, express more compassion and kindness, and even have stronger immune systems. So ironically the more grateful you get when you are crook the quicker you recover. Gratitude works best when you write it down and when you get specific. So I’m grateful for John and Jill who are the first picture below, and today is their 21^st wedding anniversary.  And because our relationships with others are the greatest determinant of our happiness, it makes sense for us to be grateful for all the special relationships, big and small, that make up our gorgeous gang. There’s just a few of them below.

Why not take a momemt and text someone about how grateful you are for them. And see what a difference it makes to both of you.

Stay Grateful...

Pete Anthony

Stats 

Swimmers 167 (Felt like 167.987)

Newbies 7 (including 2 from Yamba) felt like 7.123 and 2.789 from Yamba

Temperature 19.7 (felt like 18.76899)

Ocean Festival

Sun 24 Nov - Sun 1 Dec

Celebrate our oceans in this week-long festival stretching from Manly to Palm Beach. Events include:

Ocean Trivia at Harbord Diggers on Monday 25^th 7 pm – 9pm  

‘Science at The Steyne’ Tuesday 26^th 6.30pm – 8.30pm

Art Meets Science Wed 27 Nov  6.30 – 8.30pm – Ruby Lane, Mona Vale 

Ocean Care Day – Sun 1^st Dec  10am  – 4pm

Operation Crayweed Snorkel Tour  + much more…

https://www.northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/whats-on/ocean-festival

A Note from Emma G.

Hello B & B’ers. Next week we are are raising money for an amazing organisation the Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind Children (RIDBC) with @qantaspathfinders - come along and see our great little cast make you laugh and maybe pee a little.
From Tuesday the 26th til sat the 30th - get your tickets from the link below to come and support and raise vital money for this amazing organisation ❤🎅🤶🎄
https://norths.com.au/events/qantas-pathfinders-revue-2019-a-qantas-christmas-story/?fbclid=IwAR1UF4nm7a4qsME--50SISOs929-LHlwZaQWX4lahGIrJnNx1MFiAKR30Ik 

B&B FUNDRAISING CHRISTMAS PARTY

Please book early for the B & B Christmas Party, which will be held on Tuesday 10^th December at 6.30 pm in Henry's Rooftop Bar (2^nd Floor) at the Steyne Hotel. All swimmers and partners/friends are welcome (no under 18s unfortunately). The theme is simply “Christmas”, so come dressed in your finest Christmas paraphernalia. The music this year will again be provided by the band, “Gluteus Maximus”, who play two types of music, Rock and Roll! The cost is $15 per head, with all proceeds going to the running costs of the B&B. Book now! Don’t miss out on this fun event, as numbers are limited. Book HERE now!

And Marie will be grateful when she gets her sweater back...

 

 

Ocean Festival

Sun 24 Nov - Sun 1 Dec

Celebrate our oceans in this week-long festival stretching from Manly to Palm Beach. Events include:

Ocean Trivia at Harbord Diggers on Monday 25^th 7 pm – 9pm  

‘Science at The Steyne’ Tuesday 26^th 6.30pm – 8.30pm

Art Meets Science Wed 27 Nov  6.30 – 8.30pm – Ruby Lane, Mona Vale 

Ocean Care Day – Sun 1^st Dec  10am  – 4pm

Operation Crayweed Snorkel Tour  + much more…

https://www.northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/whats-on/ocean-festival

A Note from Emma G.

Hello B & B’ers. Next week we are are raising money for an amazing organisation the Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind Children (RIDBC) with @qantaspathfinders - come along and see our great little cast make you laugh and maybe pee a little.
From Tuesday the 26th til sat the 30th - get your tickets from the link below to come and support and raise vital money for this amazing organisation ❤🎅🤶🎄
https://norths.com.au/events/qantas-pathfinders-revue-2019-a-qantas-christmas-story/?fbclid=IwAR1UF4nm7a4qsME--50SISOs929-LHlwZaQWX4lahGIrJnNx1MFiAKR30Ik 

B&B FUNDRAISING CHRISTMAS PARTY

Please book early for the B & B Christmas Party, which will be held on Tuesday 10^th December at 6.30 pm in Henry's Rooftop Bar (2^nd Floor) at the Steyne Hotel. All swimmers and partners/friends are welcome (no under 18s unfortunately). The theme is simply “Christmas”, so come dressed in your finest Christmas paraphernalia. The music this year will again be provided by the band, “Gluteus Maximus”, who play two types of music, Rock and Roll! The cost is $15 per head, with all proceeds going to the running costs of the B&B. Book now! Don’t miss out on this fun event, as numbers are limited. Book HERE now!

And Marie will be grateful when she gets her sweater back...

27-11-2019: Aquarium conditions on ashless Wednesday

This lovely crew were all smiles today after a smooth ride to Shelly & back with no ash nor leaves clinging to their bodies making the swim just that bit more challenging! Instead - we were blessed with aquarium conditions -  but no fish photos as blog camera is still on the blink. JK is onto it so all will be good tomorrow!

Sadly though, while we had an awesome swim, the fires are still burning - our thoughts are with our affected colleagues. There was discussion amongst the WOWs this morning of an ANZAC biscuit cook up for 7 December to support volunteers in Blaze Aid - watch this space!

Lovely conditions greeted us on the way to the swim this morning!

What divine intervention at Booty Camp today! It may have resulted from Ian's version of a 'salute to the sun' manoeuvre ! I knew there was something special about those booty campers!

Daphne was giving the thumbs up to our free range girls, Frida, Agnetha and Cherry who provide us with delicious eggs! She said her omelette was spectacularly yellow! Go girls!

 

Even the booty campers pets are special. Here's Anne with Derek's dog Bindi and another ray of light.

 

JK and Lyndal were chomping at the bit to get into the water despite the temperature dropping back to a shivery 19 degrees! :-)

 

Rob and gals were super psyched to get swimming too!

 

These lovely ladies are both celebrating significant birthdays this year! Don't forget to buy them a present!

Where's Shaun when you need him! We will be most unhappy if the temp drops below 19! Don't forget to book a ticket to the xmas party!!

 

Post swim paparazzi poses!

Brad Pitt and Sam

Greg Marinan and Sam

Lifesaver Jack

Sam's floofer. Waiting patiently for Sam.

 

Another very cute floofer. Don't know who its owner is.

Wilf and John were having a quiet moment together sharing extraordinary experiences they have both had recently. We have permission to tell you that John (right) was struck down by a very debilitating illness which affects one person in a million, called Epidermolysis bullosa acquista. It is a condition of the skin where the skin blisters like frost bite. It is very nasty. We are glad to see John back down at the beach. If any of you have experienced such a thing or are aware of anyone else in the world who has then please get in touch.

 

Wilf is seen here with Lainey after completing his 140th triathlon on the weekend in Kurnell. Wilf is 84 years young and came first in his age group - a brilliant achievement (we don't need to mention he was only one in his age group). A huge congratulations to you Wilf. Many of us hope we are doing triathlons at 84! 

Happy hump day! Its all down hill from here! 😆 

Stats:

Swimmers: Yes

Newbies: Yes

Temperature: 19 deg

 

Notices:

Ocean Festival

Sun 24 Nov - Sun 1 Dec

Celebrate our oceans in this week-long festival stretching from Manly to Palm Beach. Events include:

Ocean Trivia at Harbord Diggers on Monday 25^th 7 pm – 9pm  

‘Science at The Steyne’ Tuesday 26^th 6.30pm – 8.30pm

Art Meets Science Wed 27 Nov  6.30 – 8.30pm – Ruby Lane, Mona Vale 

Ocean Care Day – Sun 1^st Dec  10am  – 4pm

Operation Crayweed Snorkel Tour  + much more…

https://www.northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/whats-on/ocean-festival

 

A Note from Emma G.

Hello B & B’ers. Next week we are are raising money for an amazing organisation the Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind Children (RIDBC) with @qantaspathfinders - come along and see our great little cast make you laugh and maybe pee a little.
From Tuesday the 26th til sat the 30th - get your tickets from the link below to come and support and raise vital money for this amazing organisation ❤🎅🤶🎄
https://norths.com.au/events/qantas-pathfinders-revue-2019-a-qantas-christmas-story/?fbclid=IwAR1UF4nm7a4qsME--50SISOs929-LHlwZaQWX4lahGIrJnNx1MFiAKR30Ik 

 

B&B FUNDRAISING CHRISTMAS PARTY

Please book early for the B & B Christmas Party, which will be held on Tuesday 10^th December at 6.30 pm in Henry's Rooftop Bar (2^nd Floor) at the Steyne Hotel. All swimmers and partners/friends are welcome (no under 18s unfortunately). The theme is simply “Christmas”, so come dressed in your finest Christmas paraphernalia. The music this year will again be provided by the band, “Gluteus Maximus”, who play two types of music, Rock and Roll! The cost is $15 per head, with all proceeds going to the running costs of the B&B. Book now! Don’t miss out on this fun event, as numbers are limited. Book HERE now!

 

 

 

 

Ocean Festival

Sun 24 Nov - Sun 1 Dec

Celebrate our oceans in this week-long festival stretching from Manly to Palm Beach. Events include:

Ocean Trivia at Harbord Diggers on Monday 25^th 7 pm – 9pm  

‘Science at The Steyne’ Tuesday 26^th 6.30pm – 8.30pm

Art Meets Science Wed 27 Nov  6.30 – 8.30pm – Ruby Lane, Mona Vale 

Ocean Care Day – Sun 1^st Dec  10am  – 4pm

Operation Crayweed Snorkel Tour  + much more…

https://www.northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/whats-on/ocean-festival

 

A Note from Emma G.

Hello B & B’ers. Next week we are are raising money for an amazing organisation the Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind Children (RIDBC) with @qantaspathfinders - come along and see our great little cast make you laugh and maybe pee a little.
From Tuesday the 26th til sat the 30th - get your tickets from the link below to come and support and raise vital money for this amazing organisation ❤🎅🤶🎄
https://norths.com.au/events/qantas-pathfinders-revue-2019-a-qantas-christmas-story/?fbclid=IwAR1UF4nm7a4qsME--50SISOs929-LHlwZaQWX4lahGIrJnNx1MFiAKR30Ik 

 

B&B FUNDRAISING CHRISTMAS PARTY

Please book early for the B & B Christmas Party, which will be held on Tuesday 10^th December at 6.30 pm in Henry's Rooftop Bar (2^nd Floor) at the Steyne Hotel. All swimmers and partners/friends are welcome (no under 18s unfortunately). The theme is simply “Christmas”, so come dressed in your finest Christmas paraphernalia. The music this year will again be provided by the band, “Gluteus Maximus”, who play two types of music, Rock and Roll! The cost is $15 per head, with all proceeds going to the running costs of the B&B. Book now! Don’t miss out on this fun event, as numbers are limited. Book HERE now!

26/11/19 - tech trouble tuesdays return

memory card from camera this morning is 'corrupt' so another pictureless blog today.

 

temp has creeped over 20 degrees finally.

the ash that was in the water yesterday was replaced by leaf litter and lots of rubbish today. Kara picked up a collection of items on her swim, but didn't pick up the condom that she swam past so hope no one else swam into that.

Roger had a contemplative morning sitting on the wall this morning. He attended a car show in St Ives on the weekend and was thoroughly impressed by the range and variety of cars on show (including one with an aircraft engine!)

Em McPhee had a couple of reasons to smile this morning - a) swam. b) birthday today. c) completed her law/commerce degree last week :)

Jo was Colby-less this morning, because Colby was on a ferry to Pyrmont - who knew dogs were allowed on the ferries?!

That's all the words I can manage without any pictures today.

 

Stats:

Temp: 20.0

Swimmers: 126

Newbies: 3

 

Ocean Festival

Sun 24 Nov - Sun 1 Dec

Celebrate our oceans in this week-long festival stretching from Manly to Palm Beach. Events include:

Ocean Trivia at Harbord Diggers on Monday 25^th 7 pm – 9pm  

‘Science at The Steyne’ Tuesday 26^th 6.30pm – 8.30pm

Art Meets Science Wed 27 Nov  6.30 – 8.30pm – Ruby Lane, Mona Vale 

Ocean Care Day – Sun 1^st Dec  10am  – 4pm

Operation Crayweed Snorkel Tour  + much more…

https://www.northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/whats-on/ocean-festival

 

A Note from Emma G.

Hello B & B’ers. Next week we are are raising money for an amazing organisation the Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind Children (RIDBC) with @qantaspathfinders - come along and see our great little cast make you laugh and maybe pee a little.
From Tuesday the 26th til sat the 30th - get your tickets from the link below to come and support and raise vital money for this amazing organisation ❤🎅🤶🎄
https://norths.com.au/events/qantas-pathfinders-revue-2019-a-qantas-christmas-story/?fbclid=IwAR1UF4nm7a4qsME--50SISOs929-LHlwZaQWX4lahGIrJnNx1MFiAKR30Ik 

 

B&B FUNDRAISING CHRISTMAS PARTY

Please book early for the B & B Christmas Party, which will be held on Tuesday 10^th December at 6.30 pm in Henry's Rooftop Bar (2^nd Floor) at the Steyne Hotel. All swimmers and partners/friends are welcome (no under 18s unfortunately). The theme is simply “Christmas”, so come dressed in your finest Christmas paraphernalia. The music this year will again be provided by the band, “Gluteus Maximus”, who play two types of music, Rock and Roll! The cost is $15 per head, with all proceeds going to the running costs of the B&B. Book now! Don’t miss out on this fun event, as numbers are limited. Book HERE now!

25/11/19 - Unintended You

Good intentions... They’re important right?  We all hope to possess good intentions. No one likes bad intentions...

"What’s your intention?"

"To do good!"

Well then, that's virtuous. Right?

It's easy to do good, to be intentionally good, when you're paying attention. And especially when everyone's paying attention.

But what about those times when no one's paying attention, not even you. You're not doing, you're just being. Which, if you think about it, is most of the time. It's then we must trust in our ability to be, unintentionally good.

 

(Click photos to zoom...)

 

 

 

 

 

 

With love,
Andrew Maher.
Foundation, Neuro-Structural Optimisation. Collaroy (mention you swim with B&B)


Stats:
Water temp: 20°
Swimmers: 176
Newbies: 2

 

A Note from Emma G.

Hello B & B’ers. Next week we are are raising money for an amazing organisation the Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind Children (RIDBC) with @qantaspathfinders - come along and see our great little cast make you laugh and maybe pee a little.
From Tuesday the 26th til sat the 30th - get your tickets from the link below to come and support and raise vital money for this amazing organisation 🤶
https://norths.com.au/events/qantas-pathfinders-revue-2019-a-qantas-christmas-story/?fbclid=IwAR1UF4nm7a4qsME--50SISOs929-LHlwZaQWX4lahGIrJnNx1MFiAKR30Ik  

 

B&B FUNDRAISING CHRISTMAS PARTY

Please book early for the B & B Christmas Party, which will be held on Tuesday 10^th December at 6.30 pm in Henry's Rooftop Bar (2^nd Floor) at the Steyne Hotel. All swimmers and partners/friends are welcome (no under 18s unfortunately). The theme is simply “Christmas”, so come dressed in your finest Christmas paraphernalia. The music this year will again be provided by the band, “Gluteus Maximus”, who play two types of music, Rock and Roll! The cost is $15 per head, with all proceeds going to the running costs of the B&B. Book now! Don’t miss out on this fun event, as numbers are limited. Book HERE now!

 

 

Sunday 24 November: Wow! Just Wow!

I should know by now that the mornings when I don't feel like swimming are the mornings when I definitely should swim.  I wasn't too happy to hear my alarm go off today but, being a dutiful blogger, I cancelled the snooze button and leapt out of bed.  And I'm very glad I did - but more on that later ...

The water temp is slowly creeping up, but the strong southerly kept the air temperature low.

JK and Dave having a serious moment.

This lot didn't get the memo and lit up the grey skies with their smiles.  Emma, Lisa, Kerry, Georgina and Jules (back for his second swim!).

Anne welcomed newbie Lyndon and passed on important tips such as "remove your glasses before putting on your goggles".  Is there no limit to Anne's encyclopaedic knowledge?

Talking of top tips, Gillian showed me how she keeps her goggles warm, which apparently prevents leakage.  Good to know!

High tide, with the water lapping the ramp.

Photographing the photographers.

Rainer and Jo.

Alison and Di, wading through the deep water.

Excellent photo bomb by Fiona.

The point was a loose concept this morning.  Eventually I realised I'd missed the let's go, and went.  I missed it at Shelly too, so I got to capture some good swimming technique heading my way:

This lot were in no hurry to leave Shelly:

Emma demonstrated her expert diving skills:

I found some fish!  The water's still pretty murky though:

The side-lying fish (Mary's favourite :) ).

Clarity improved as I rounded the point.  Then, as I was well past the point and on my way into the beach, this swam right under me:

I was in fairly shallow water so it startled me somewhat!  The ray (a bull ray, I think) was heading away from the beach so I followed him, collecting Georgina and Kerry on the way.  (Hats off to the swimmer who also swam right over this enormous ray and somehow didn't notice it - clearly they were deep in swimming meditation!  Or should have gone to Specsavers?)

We were so busy saying "Wow!" that eventually we lost the ray in the murkiness.  But not to worry - Georgina and Kerry demonstrated just how big it was:

Back on land the fun continued, as I caught up with the beautiful Colby (Jo must have the most-photographed legs in Manly :) ):

Greg and Jo.  Charl in the background whizzed past me this morning doing backstroke.  And I was doing freestyle!!  No wonder I didn't make it to Shelly for the "let's go"!!!  The rest of the Pottgieter clan enjoying their Sunday:

Susie and I fought for Colby's affections in an amusing but slightly undignified manner:

Susie needs some new clothes and has just set up a GoFundMe page.  She'll be first in the queue at Izzy's clothes swap this afternoon.

Enjoy your Sunday, everyone!

 

Stats:

Water temp 19.4

Swimmers: Busy but seemed slightly down from your average Sunday

Newbies: 3.5

 

And now for the notices:

Ocean Festival

Sun 24 Nov - Sun 1 Dec

Celebrate our oceans in this week-long festival stretching from Manly to Palm Beach. Events include:

Ocean Trivia at Harbord Diggers on Monday 25^th 7 pm – 9pm  

‘Science at The Steyne’ Tuesday 26^th 6.30pm – 8.30pm

Art Meets Science Wed 27 Nov  6.30 – 8.30pm – Ruby Lane, Mona Vale 

Ocean Care Day – Sun 1^st Dec  10am  – 4pm

Operation Crayweed Snorkel Tour  + much more…

https://www.northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/whats-on/ocean-festival

 

A Note from Emma G.

Hello B & B’ers. Next week we are are raising money for an amazing organisation the Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind Children (RIDBC) with @qantaspathfinders - come along and see our great little cast make you laugh and maybe pee a little.
From Tuesday the 26th til sat the 30th - get your tickets from the link below to come and support and raise vital money for this amazing organisation ❤🎅🤶🎄
https://norths.com.au/events/qantas-pathfinders-revue-2019-a-qantas-christmas-story/?fbclid=IwAR1UF4nm7a4qsME--50SISOs929-LHlwZaQWX4lahGIrJnNx1MFiAKR30Ik 

 

B&B FUNDRAISING CHRISTMAS PARTY

Please book early for the B & B Christmas Party, which will be held on Tuesday 10^th December at 6.30 pm in Henry's Rooftop Bar (2^nd Floor) at the Steyne Hotel. All swimmers and partners/friends are welcome (no under 18s unfortunately). The theme is simply “Christmas”, so come dressed in your finest Christmas paraphernalia. The music this year will again be provided by the band, “Gluteus Maximus”, who play two types of music, Rock and Roll! The cost is $15 per head, with all proceeds going to the running costs of the B&B. Book now! Don’t miss out on this fun event, as numbers are limited. Book HERE now!

 

 

Time to think of those less fortunate

First off, apologies for the lateness of this blog. It's been a full day of activity, the most notable being passing my bronze proficiency at Dee Why. I was told I did the run swim run with 10 seconds to spare but I'm sure they were lying.

Last night and today we were blessed with rain. Not so the people living on the land in much of the state. I was talking to Belinda last night - she lives on a farm near Wingham, and more than once she said the atmosphere was just weird. Another friend of had had 99% of her 1000 acre property a few hundred kms away from Wingham completely burned out. This property is a conservation area and the native animals she shares it with had no chance.

Sorry to cast a pall on the blog but this is something we shouldn't and can't look away from.

Our corner of the world was lovely as usual. I just managed to catch the 6:30 crew aka the Drinks Express setting off.

While up on land Alison and friends were setting up one of the B&B globally renowned cake and bake stalls. This one was a fund raiser for bushfire victims (see management notices below). It was a sell-out. Congrats  to the organiser, helpers, contributors and purchasers - all much appreciated

 

Lainey's famous seedy nutty slice

Water temps are on the upward trajectory, and please do take note of the summer swims starting in December. Triple, 6km and 10km badges are up for grabs.

Annie and Peter with Derek's furchild, Bindi

Bindi shares dog of the day honours with Colby, seen here executing a spectacular downward dog. You'd think he was born for it. Namaste, bruh. Colby is with Jo for the next few weeks and will be accepting pats and giving love 

Spooning

Newbie Anna, centre

Can you heard the drums Fernando?

Newbie Taylah in the stripes

Fishies

This fiddler ray aka banjo shark and flathead were in the shallows at Manly

When too much silly is barely enough.....

 

Thanks to Medibank Free and Active, B&B random swimmer of the month for October is: Mike Russell

Mike has done 41 swims. (his picture is attached)

His main motivation to join B&B was to keep up my fitness levels post 50, and importantly to do more with the local community. “I used to bodysurf all the local breaks for years, and when the weather was flat I would swim across to Shelley Beach by myself. One day I counted 12 sharks as I swam and decided that maybe it was time to swim with the group!” 

Mike has two purchases in mind with his voucher ... either a sports watch, or a new swimming wetsuit.

 

Great work Mike.

Management update

Management recently attended a meeting with representatives from Northern Beaches and Lake Macquarie Councils. The two Councils in question have been chosen to undertake a “Smart Beaches” project. The Councils wanted to inform the Bold and Beautiful what the project is all about. The project’s end result is to furnish more data to enable the Life Savers to perform their jobs as well as possible and improve conditions at the beaches and surrounds. 

There will be a number of initiatives which will provide additional information on;

-the number of swimmers/pedestrians on and around the beaches

-the use of facilities by beachgoers

-bathing and swimming conditions

In order to record information there will be cameras installed at Manly and Shelly beaches, GPS trackers will be attached to the red and yellow flags, to buggies, rescue boards and even the rubbish bins to ensure they get emptied appropriately. Some lifeguards will be equipped with devices to measure their movement and activity.  Installation is expected late November and a similar situation will be happening on Redhead and Blacksmith beaches in Lake Macquarie. There isn’t really much for us to do other than encourage the project as it will hopefully improve safety and beach conditions for all at Manly and Shelly.

Cake Stall to support Bush Fire Victims from the WOWs (this was held today but keeping the post in case you need the link to donate)

Hi B&B friends. We will be holding a cake stall this Saturday 23 November to help the community of our fellow BnB swimmer Belinda Robertson. Bee & hubby Bruce have been ready for action defending their farm for the past week, they have been spared but their community is suffering great loss (they are near Wingham/Taree). Please bake if you can or bring your $$ and appetite on Saturday. Or if you won’t be there but would like to donate, see the link below. Thank you 💕 

Click here to support MidCoast Bush Fire Relief organized by LIONS Club of Taree (MidCoast) NSW

LIONS Club of Taree (MidCoast) NSW MidCoast Bush Fire Relief LET'S JOIN TOGETHER TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE! Want to join LIONS Australia in helping those affected

A Note from Emma G.

Hello B & B’ers. Next week we are are raising money for an amazing organisation the Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind Children (RIDBC) with @qantaspathfinders - come along and see our great little cast make you laugh and maybe pee a little.
From Tuesday the 26th til sat the 30th - get your tickets from the link below to come and support and raise vital money for this amazing organisation 🤶
https://norths.com.au/events/qantas-pathfinders-revue-2019-a-qantas-christmas-story/?fbclid=IwAR1UF4nm7a4qsME--50SISOs929-LHlwZaQWX4lahGIrJnNx1MFiAKR30Ik  

B&B FUNDRAISING CHRISTMAS PARTY

 

Please book early for the B & B Christmas Party, which will be held on Tuesday 10^th December at 6.30 pm in Henry's Rooftop Bar (2^nd Floor) at the Steyne Hotel. All swimmers and partners/friends are welcome (no under 18s unfortunately). The theme is simply “Christmas”, so come dressed in your finest Christmas paraphernalia. The music this year will again be provided by the band, “Gluteus Maximus”, who play two types of music, Rock and Roll! The cost is $15 per head, with all proceeds going to the running costs of the B&B. Book now! Don’t miss out on this fun event, as numbers are limited. Book HERE now!

What am I listening to? Seems apt.

Time is on our side

The northerly winds came in today and brought big waves which are a joy for the surfers. They have not had a turn for a long time and I can have a swim another day from the beach. Also today we could swim at halfway or from Shelly beach. Time is on our side.

I like this photo and wish it would rain so we needed an umbrella

Lots of us braved the smoke today

an extra reason for me to go to halfway - my guardian angels swam early

only two under the A team tree

crashing foam at halfway

Two wise men

A good go for surfers today and the brave swimmers who can negotiate waves and surfers at once

best moustache today

arty sky

sometimes they do

shower scene in a different location

SUMMER BADGE SWIMS

Thanks to Medibank Free and Active, B&B random swimmer of the month for October is: Mike Russell

Mike has done 41 swims. (his picture is attached)

His main motivation to join B&B was to keep up my fitness levels post 50, and importantly to do more with the local community. “I used to bodysurf all the local breaks for years, and when the weather was flat I would swim across to Shelley Beach by myself. One day I counted 12 sharks as I swam and decided that maybe it was time to swim with the group!” 

Mike has two purchases in mind with his voucher ... either a sports watch, or a new swimming wetsuit.

 

Great work Mike.

Management update

Management recently attended a meeting with representatives from Northern Beaches and Lake Macquarie Councils. The two Councils in question have been chosen to undertake a “Smart Beaches” project. The Councils wanted to inform the Bold and Beautiful what the project is all about. The project’s end result is to furnish more data to enable the Life Savers to perform their jobs as well as possible and improve conditions at the beaches and surrounds. 

There will be a number of initiatives which will provide additional information on;

-the number of swimmers/pedestrians on and around the beaches

-the use of facilities by beachgoers

-bathing and swimming conditions

In order to record information there will be cameras installed at Manly and Shelly beaches, GPS trackers will be attached to the red and yellow flags, to buggies, rescue boards and even the rubbish bins to ensure they get emptied appropriately. Some lifeguards will be equipped with devices to measure their movement and activity.  Installation is expected late November and a similar situation will be happening on Redhead and Blacksmith beaches in Lake Macquarie. There isn’t really much for us to do other than encourage the project as it will hopefully improve safety and beach conditions for all at Manly and Shelly.

Cake Stall to support Bush Fire Victims from the WOWs

Hi B&B friends. We will be holding a cake stall this Saturday 23 November to help the community of our fellow BnB swimmer Belinda Robertson. Bee & hubby Bruce have been ready for action defending their farm for the past week, they have been spared but their community is suffering great loss (they are near Wingham/Taree). Please bake if you can or bring your $$ and appetite on Saturday. Or if you won’t be there but would like to donate, see the link below. Thank you 💕 

Click here to support MidCoast Bush Fire Relief organized by LIONS Club of Taree (MidCoast) NSW

LIONS Club of Taree (MidCoast) NSW MidCoast Bush Fire Relief LET'S JOIN TOGETHER TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE! Want to join LIONS Australia in helping those affected

 

B&B FUNDRAISING CHRISTMAS PARTY

 

Please book early for the B & B Christmas Party, which will be held on Tuesday 10^th December at 6.30 pm in Henry's Rooftop Bar (2^nd Floor) at the Steyne Hotel. All swimmers and partners/friends are welcome (no under 18s unfortunately). The theme is simply “Christmas”, so come dressed in your finest Christmas paraphernalia. The music this year will again be provided by the band, “Gluteus Maximus”, who play two types of music, Rock and Roll! The cost is $15 per head, with all proceeds going to the running costs of the B&B. Book now! Don’t miss out on this fun event, as numbers are limited. Book HERE now!

 

WHAT I AM READING

some enjoyable police novels set in Minnesota featuring Virgil Flowers. Quick and enjoyable reads. 

 

Thursday 21 November: Swimming can be hazardous to your health

It was an eerie kind of morning this morning with a firey red sunrise and plenty of smoke haze as the sun came up over Cabbage Tree Bay. (thanks Carol and Jenny for the additional photos)

John gave us a warning about strenuous activity and making sure we all came back in one piece - as if a little smoke haze was every going to stop Bold and Beautiful swimmers.

In we all went!

There were some serious discussions to be had!

The WOW's now have team colours by the looks of it.  Speaking of the WOWs they will be holding a cake staff for the fire victims this weekend.  Details are below.

These guys were all too happy to pose with their shirts off.

While Pete - pictured here with Thorso the legend - is excited that after surgery two weeks ago today he was allowed back in the water.  He's quite ready to swim Manly to Shelly and back but a frolic can still do the mindset wonders.

Despite the smoke it was still a great day for a swim.

Water temperature 19.4
Newbies.  2
Total swimmers.  173

Other notices:

Thanks to Medibank Free and Active, B&B random swimmer of the month for October is: Mike Russell

Mike has done 41 swims. His main motivation to join B&B was to keep up my fitness levels post 50, and importantly to do more with the local community. “I used to bodysurf all the local breaks for years, and when the weather was flat I would swim across to Shelley Beach by myself. One day I counted 12 sharks as I swam and decided that maybe it was time to swim with the group!” 

Mike has two purchases in mind with his voucher ... either a sports watch, or a new swimming wetsuit.

Great work Mike.

Management update

Management recently attended a meeting with representatives from Northern Beaches and Lake Macquarie Councils. The two Councils in question have been chosen to undertake a “Smart Beaches” project. The Councils wanted to inform the Bold and Beautiful what the project is all about. The project’s end result is to furnish more data to enable the Life Savers to perform their jobs as well as possible and improve conditions at the beaches and surrounds. 

There will be a number of initiatives which will provide additional information on;

-the number of swimmers/pedestrians on and around the beaches

-the use of facilities by beachgoers

-bathing and swimming conditions

In order to record information there will be cameras installed at Manly and Shelly beaches, GPS trackers will be attached to the red and yellow flags, to buggies, rescue boards and even the rubbish bins to ensure they get emptied appropriately. Some lifeguards will be equipped with devices to measure their movement and activity.  Installation is expected late November and a similar situation will be happening on Redhead and Blacksmith beaches in Lake Macquarie. There isn’t really much for us to do other than encourage the project as it will hopefully improve safety and beach conditions for all at Manly and Shelly.

Cake Stall to support Bush Fire Victims from the WOWs

Hi B&B friends. We will be holding a cake stall this Saturday 23 November to help the community of our fellow BnB swimmer Belinda Robertson. Bee & hubby Bruce have been ready for action defending their farm for the past week, they have been spared but their community is suffering great loss (they are near Wingham/Taree). Please bake if you can or bring your $$ and appetite on Saturday. Or if you won’t be there but would like to donate, see the link below. Thank you 💕 

Click here to support MidCoast Bush Fire Relief organized by LIONS Club of Taree (MidCoast) NSW

LIONS Club of Taree (MidCoast) NSW MidCoast Bush Fire Relief LET'S JOIN TOGETHER TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE! Want to join LIONS Australia in helping those affected

B&B FUNDRAISING CHRISTMAS PARTY

Please book early for the B & B Christmas Party, which will be held on Tuesday 10^th December at 6.30 pm in Henry's Rooftop Bar (2^nd Floor) at the Steyne Hotel. All swimmers and partners/friends are welcome (no under 18s unfortunately). The theme is simply “Christmas”, so come dressed in your finest Christmas paraphernalia. The music this year will again be provided by the band, “Gluteus Maximus”, who play two types of music, Rock and Roll! The cost is $15 per head, with all proceeds going to the running costs of the B&B. Book now! Don’t miss out on this fun event, as numbers are limited. Book HERE now!