Pacific Jules

11/05/2021 - Salt Joy and Stunning Skies

You had to be down at the beach by 6.30am this morning to see the amazing light show. It was spectacular! I always try not to miss the half hour before and after sunrise and had to jump up from yoga on the beach to photograph this!

The Drinks Express got to swim under that stunning sky. The surf had calmed down from the weekend and water was warm around 20-21 degrees.

Thanks Jen and Sal for yoga!

Mel and friend looking gorgeous with that backdrop!

Peter and Huw had finished their swim when I took this photo.

Claire and Lyndell were just about to go in.

Nicki and Anthon. We're still waiting to see Anthon with a pink cap...

It's Nick's birthday tomorrow. There may even be cake!

The wonderful 'Wows' about to get their 'salt joy'!

Charlie, 'Wogga' and Ewen with Justus

Scotty and the Black Cappers aka A Team

Kate and Sarah a bit blurry but still cute. Sarah bakes the most delicious gluten free bread and sells it at Honeybee Bakery and Balgowlah Heights. I've tried the Zucchini Loaf and Fruit Toast. We also have our other swimmer turned Baker, James Partington's Staple now opened on Wentworth Street with fantastic products!

A few swimmers I caught in the water. I'm looking forward to Bluewater dinner tonight with a secret but inspiring and moving speaker who does happen to be in one of the photos above! Unfortunately it's sold out but email Ian if you want to go as there could be a spare ticket or 2.

On the topic of  nights out we were supposed to be promoting a Trivia Night coming up but it's sold out in 4 days! A note below from Duncan and a photo of the talented Tim Keith who has been filming the documentary based on us the last 18 months! 

Thank you for your interest in the Quiz night. We have now reached our capacity. if you would like to still contribute to the completion of swimming documentary 'Salt Joy'  based on the Bold & Beautiful swimming Community. This funding would include final Post-Production costs such as Additional Editing, Audio Mixing and Colour grade. Contribute directly to the film then please use the following link. https://gofund.me/801b7364

It would be great if anyone can donate directly or with prizes for a Silent Auction. Please let me, Duncan, John Kelly or Drinksy know if you have anything you can donate! It could be a prize or a service... Anything that people would pay some money for to help Tim and help completion of this fantastic documentary which many of you are featured in!

There's been a lot of interest on the Facebook B&B Swimmers page about a 'Lunchtime swimming Group'. Here are some of the swimmers you may meet if you wish to come along...Lainey (me), Kirsten, Janet, Tony and Ali. It's all very casual and swimmers just let each other know when and what time. It may not go every day.Everyone welcome!

One of our regulars Peter Lei loved his swim today. He commented "the water's alive this morning! Lots of movement. So invigorating!"

Ali needs a job! She's been working for 20 years in business events but it's really been impacted by covid. Please get in touch if you have anything that might suit this vivacious, hard-working and dynamic lady!

The water viz has been terrible the last week but I took these pics 9 days ago. The Giant Cuttlefish will reappear again. This is the time of year we see these incredible creatures. I'm sure we'll be back to good viz soon!

Have a great week!

Lainey

Monday 10th May 2021 - Happy 55th Emma & the capless shortcut.

Classic shot  29 minutes before sunrise.

 

Just for you Lucy! And yes Brad won the 6:30 express.




Bootie before sunrise.

 

Happy 55th Emma & fans.

 

Lyndal’s scone recipe “1 1 3 2oo 10”

 

6.29 drinkless express.


Smile.

 

The 6:31 crowd.

 

Capless took his usual shortcut.

 

6:36 sunrise.

 

Waves@Shelly.

Jo.

 

Pirate, Smurf & Jo.

 

 

II swam @7 with these guys.

 

Stay save, enjoy.....

 

Simon

 

TWO B&B Events

1. B&B monthly dinner – 11^th May 2021

 

The next B&B monthly dinner for the year will be held on Tuesday 11th May at 6.30 pm at Bluewater Restaurant. Our speaker for the night is a regular B&B swimmer whose identity will remain a mystery until the night. From his position as a high flying international corporate executive, we will follow his journey to homelessness as a result of a declining mental health. We are all touched by mental health issues, whether in ourselves, family and friends or just those we see on the streets of Manly. This really is a tale of courage and perseverance. You probably see our speaker most mornings at the beach and would never guess how important this morning ritual of exercise, friendship and community involvement has contributed to his recovery and ongoing happiness. shared entrees, and a selection of mains to choose from (including a vegetarian option). Glatwww.boldandbeautifulmanly.com.au/bb-bluewater-monthly-dinner.html

2.

Tim Keith an independent local filmmaker is reaching out for funds to help him finish his swimming documentary based on the Bold & Beautiful swimming Community. This funding would include final Post-Production costs such as Additional Editing, Audio Mixing and Colour grade.

There will be a fundraising quiz night on Monday 24^th May 2021 at the Steyne Hotel, 7pm for a 7.30pm start. 

Tickets will be $25 and tables can be of 4, 6 or 8.  If you cannot complete a table yourself, then please ask to be placed on a table as everybody is welcome. 

Prize donations will be gratefully received. 

Quizmaster will be John Kelly.

Tickets can be obtained at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/bold-beautiful-fund-raising-quiz-night-tickets-153592594585

 

 

Some Mothers Do Have Em

Sally sits with us today, surveying the glassy swell. Lyndsay talks to me about how the crisp morning reminds her of the Kaipara at dawn. Christine brings a smile with her wit and sharp observations much like her son. Kristine frowns with her daughter's dubious decisions, with Christine knowingly nodding along. Lavinia consults the rule book to see what is allowed. Beth sorts us all out & says get out and go wide. Mum's the word.

Rusty and Chippos Pitch report: A bit later today like most of us. Like me Drinksy has some early morning time whilst the other half sleeps. The swell is much more manageable today, with a glassy look about it. Duncan yesterday went north whilst we plowed through chop in the bay. Today we listen and have a long, clean, smooth swim. A jimbal catches my arm 100m north but otherwise a warm, smooth ride. Cooler at entry but still roughly 20 degrees in.

What have you got on for Mothers Day? Marty is going to pick up some flowers on the way to see Mum. Adrian remembers his Mum and a swim they had a Queenscliff many years back. Mothers Day sees around one quarter of all flowers purchased throughout the year, even toppling Valentine's Day.

Greg finds someone who looks like his daughter for a photo.

Head North young man. Sage advice stealthy.

Mama's gonna keep you right here under her wing. She wont let you fly but she might let you sing.

Great day for a surf (or a BBQ for Mum)

The Easy Rider reunion now swimmers. August is the most common month around the world for mothers to give birth to their children.

Swell dodgers

Mel our photographic genius herding the cats into a photo. Good luck with that.

Linda grabbed Marcus to pose as her son. 

Happy Mothers Day to all the Mothers out there. Thanks for the swim team. Remember that panic is the sudden realization that everything around you is alive.

Rusty the Fish, William S Chippo and Mel.

Tim Keith an independent local filmmaker is reaching out for funds to help him finish his swimming documentary based on the Bold & Beautiful swimming Community. This funding would include final Post-Production costs such as Additional Editing, Audio Mixing and Colour grade.

There will be a fundraising quiz night on Monday 24^th May 2021 at the Steyne Hotel, 7pm for a 7.30pm start. 

Tickets will be $25 and tables can be of 4, 6 or 8.  If you cannot complete a table yourself, then please ask to be placed on a table as everybody is welcome. 

Prize donations will be gratefully received. 

Quizmaster will be John Kelly.

Tickets can be obtained at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/bold-beautiful-fund-raising-quiz-night-tickets-153592594585

 

 

Surf's still up....

On days like today, I don't turn up to Manly Beach anymore. I park at Shelly and start my swim there. Jon went back to the beach though and took some photos for me of the surf and swell there. Lots of surfers, some brave swimmers , lots of fun too I imagine for those who brave it. First up is my sunrise shot from the views near the car park, surfers also took themselves out there first thing this morning.

 

A bit of a surgy bay today, with waves at Shelly too, no visibility whatsoever. A beautiful warm temp, and waves coming from the Bower Break and from the wall on the scenic route, made for lots of swallowing salt water and keeping your wits about you in case of collisions.

I found Suzie doing some shorter laps up and back, so joined her for one.

Anne and Alana were having a break from their laps

There was a few May birthdays that we celebrated at breakfast today, always nice after a morning swim.

Caroline , holding the red bag below, also had a special birthday yesterday

I just got back from a few days up at Forster and Seal Rocks, here's Number One Beach and the turtle I found not far behind the wee waves that were there that day.

B&B monthly dinner – 11^th May 2021

 

The next B&B monthly dinner for the year will be held on Tuesday 11th May at 6.30 pm at Bluewater Restaurant. Our speaker for the night is a regular B&B swimmer whose identity will remain a mystery until the night. From his position as a high flying international corporate executive, we will follow his journey to homelessness as a result of a declining mental health. We are all touched by mental health issues, whether in ourselves, family and friends or just those we see on the streets of Manly. This really is a tale of courage and perseverance. You probably see our speaker most mornings at the beach and would never guess how important this morning ritual of exercise, friendship and community involvement has contributed to his recovery and ongoing happiness.

 

The cost of the dinner is great value at only $30 a head, which includes shared entrees, and a selection of mains to choose from (including a vegetarian option). Glasses of beer or wine and desserts are also available at the special price of only $5 each (please note, NO BYO). Bookings are essential, so to avoid disappointment and secure your spot please book atwww.boldandbeautifulmanly.com.au/bb-bluewater-monthly-dinner.html

B&B Bluewater Monthly Dinner The next B&B monthly dinner for the year will be held on  Tuesday 11th May at 6.30 pm  at Bluewater Restaurant. Our speaker for the night is a regular B&B swimmer whose identity will remain a... www.boldandbeautifulmanly.com.au

That's all from me folks, have a great weekend, swell decreasing from now on :) 

Edwina.

Friday 7 May 2021 A different sea

I entered through the waves today. At Shelly! They were big. There I found some excellent swimmers

 

 

What sea is this? was it only last week I was looking at green sea grass calmly at this point?

 

Ted, Roz, Georgina and David heading off for a swim

 

David and A Team going in at the waves. South Steyne in this case. I did see them get back in ok. Today was a day on which you had to choose where you should swim. Luckily there are suitable choices for all, according to skill

Only actual swimmer shot - David Champion heading back to Manly from Shelly. 

On his return, a great swimmer

After a safe exit at halfway -  not easy to do so be careful

 

B&B monthly dinner – 11^th May 2021

The next B&B monthly dinner for the year will be held on Tuesday 11th May at 6.30 pm at Bluewater Restaurant. Our speaker for the night is a regular B&B swimmer whose identity will remain a mystery until the night. From his position as a high flying international corporate executive, we will follow his journey to homelessness as a result of a declining mental health. We are all touched by mental health issues, whether in ourselves, family and friends or just those we see on the streets of Manly. This really is a tale of courage and perseverance. You probably see our speaker most mornings at the beach and would never guess how important this morning ritual of exercise, friendship and community involvement has contributed to his recovery and ongoing happiness.

The cost of the dinner is great value at only $30 a head, which includes shared entrees, and a selection of mains to choose from (including a vegetarian option). Glasses of beer or wine and desserts are also available at the special price of only $5 each (please note, NO BYO). Bookings are essential, so to avoid disappointment and secure your spot please book at www.boldandbeautifulmanly.com.au/bb-bluewater-monthly-dinner.html

Rainy but still warm

Today's conditions in the water and out of the water were challenging, but the water is still warm - in the 20s.  The swell was up and the water was murky.  At 6:15 it was still dark:

We walked to Shelly to swim to the point from there. On the walk back from our swim we saw Ian temping the splash at the Bower and then he and Pauline as they continued their Bold and Beautiful bi - a walk and a swim.

and a few bold swimmers who took on the swell

Although we few fish  today, over the weekend there was much Cuttlefish viewing, I also saw two Wobbegongs  mating! A first for me (see photo below)

Bold and beautiful regular 'Spotter' Sarah and the cuttlefish

Two Wobbegongs mating

Welcome to this newly registered Bold and Beautiful swimmer - my 11 year old daughter who plans to earn a winter badge.

Have a great day! 

Alana

B&B monthly dinner – 11^th May 2021

The next B&B monthly dinner for the year will be held on Tuesday 11th May at 6.30 pm at Bluewater Restaurant. Our speaker for the night is a regular B&B swimmer whose identity will remain a mystery until the night. From his position as a high flying international corporate executive, we will follow his journey to homelessness as a result of a declining mental health. We are all touched by mental health issues, whether in ourselves, family and friends or just those we see on the streets of Manly. This really is a tale of courage and perseverance. You probably see our speaker most mornings at the beach and would never guess how important this morning ritual of exercise, friendship and community involvement has contributed to his recovery and ongoing happiness.

The cost of the dinner is great value at only $30 a head, which includes shared entrees, and a selection of mains to choose from (including a vegetarian option). Glasses of beer or wine and desserts are also available at the special price of only $5 each (please note, NO BYO). Bookings are essential, so to avoid disappointment and secure your spot please book at www.boldandbeautifulmanly.com.au/bb-bluewater-monthly-dinner.html

 

Wednesday 5th May - caught out, rain about, warmer in than out!

Well our sunny days had to end at some stage....  Wednesday brought moody skies and here comes the rain!    However, we still swim, as swimming in the rain can be very therapeutic, calming, meditative watching raindrops on water...  and we are wet anyway!   

air temperature at 7am 15.7 degrees

water temperature 20.9 degrees 

conditions - generally flat & clear-ish in the bay with a few fun waves here and there near the point..

I was literally "caught"  out this morning - my planned blog theme was sunk but i thought it necessary to change the theme.    I was about to leave the beach to go to work when Deb exited the water, with a large fish hook & lure firmly implanted in her arm (see picture).   She was rounding the point for the swim home and felt something touch her arm...sadly it was said fish hook - it didnt take much for the sharp hook to embed itself!.   Unfortunately its a reminder that although Cabbage tree bay is protected from fishing, there are the odd rogues so continue to watch out for debris - we may be able to quickly extract fish hooks etc but sadly our aquatic creatures cant always do that  ....    Deb was  being incredibly stoic  - quipping that she was definitely the "catch of the day" - she was certainly well cared for by Drinksy, Simon (who provided some liquid anesthetic) and a posse of BB'ers with first aid (and plans to get a tetanus shot) and hopefully she will be ok.  Deb certainly has a story to tell and a reminder for all of us - we can mobilise by writing to council, fisheries etc (I have done jut that this morning!)  - on behalf of our aquatic friends who cant!  

deb was stoic in her pain.... 

Contacts: 

Fisheries - department of primary industries: https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/contact-us

Northern Beaches Council - https://www.northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au/services/customer-services

Speaking of stories, last night I attended the “story room AUS” at the Steyne with some of the BB community.  The theme was “perfectly imperfect”... each of the six inspiring story tellers including BB own Kirsten McLaughlin told their unique “perfectly imperfect” story... a common theme was the importance of community & acceptance and having the courage to embrace our individuality & write our own playbook  ... the BB community definitely fits that brief ... 

Speaking of “fit”... with the pronounced wintery bite in the air, and the water temperature slowly dropping (evidenced by the early arrival of Port Jackson Sharks!!), we are starting to see wetsuits coming out of summer hibernation & hear the groans & sighs of swimmers shimmying into said wetsuits.   

Les Bubbles doesnt ever wear a wetsuit - she gets cold but manages her swimming time

Mitch, Danny and Jo - the "sawtooths" - no wetsuits for these three, who warm up after by layering clothes and hot drinks!

Antony, Alexis and Colin - definitely wetsuits, sometimes all year (I wont tell which one!)

derek went for a surf (in his wetsuit)

Deb and Attracta - Deb is most definitely the catch of the day today - her words - before she was hooked... they have been swimming with BB for over 12 years and never in wetsuits for these legends!

Tony has been swimming for 2 years!  He started swimming with Can Too having never swum before and 2 years later is addicted!   Tony is definitely an inspiration (and never with a wetsuit - see his badges!)!

Christo was stung in the face by a jimble...  Alex didnt as she was wearing a sleeved suit.... both intend to try to hold out for WWW

Darren (from Sydney) guilted Sue (visiting from Melbourne) into swimming today.   Darren describes himself as a "delicate petal" and wished he had worn his wetsuit (soft!).  Sue on the other hand found the 20 degree water balmy (sue is definitely not a "delicate petal!") as she normally swims in the Bay in Melbourne where the water temperature is currently 14 degrees, and can get as low as 9 degrees, definitely wetsuit conditions (unless you are practicing Wim Hof!)!

Olivia, Rohan and Jenny - Olivia and Rohan encountered a few jimbles and Jenny saw a Dusky Whaler on the "Scenic route"

Ian and Andrea - ian definitely no wetsuit, Andrea definitely will not go for WWW!   andrea saw a Port Jackson shark & Ian saw an Eagle Ray!

Happy Birthday Simon (aka trooper) from the Guvnor and the Drinks express, celebrating with a little something special to warm our hearts (and to help Deb with the pain of the fish hook!)!

 

Popcorn has had "the procedure" hence the cone of shame

Bindi (rescue) is walked by Michael whilst Derek (Bindi's human) swims...

Tilly and Coco are both rescues - its said that a rescue hound rescues us.... as much as we rescue them.... 

and the Ocean can heal all of us in its own way...  hopefully Deb will heal from her fish hook injury! 

have a great "Hump" day everyone!

and another notice - if you havent already booked there are still seats available:

B&B monthly dinner – 11^th May 2021

 

The next B&B monthly dinner for the year will be held on Tuesday 11th May at 6.30 pm at Bluewater Restaurant. Our speaker for the night is a regular B&B swimmer whose identity will remain a mystery until the night. From his position as a high flying international corporate executive, we will follow his journey to homelessness as a result of a declining mental health. We are all touched by mental health issues, whether in ourselves, family and friends or just those we see on the streets of Manly. This really is a tale of courage and perseverance. You probably see our speaker most mornings at the beach and would never guess how important this morning ritual of exercise, friendship and community involvement has contributed to his recovery and ongoing happiness.

 

The cost of the dinner is great value at only $30 a head, which includes shared entrees, and a selection of mains to choose from (including a vegetarian option). Glasses of beer or wine and desserts are also available at the special price of only $5 each (please note, NO BYO). Bookings are essential, so to avoid disappointment and secure your spot please book at www.boldandbeautifulmanly.com.au/bb-bluewater-monthly-dinner.html

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tues 4th: The Importance of Being Ernest

It's Story Room Tuesday again, with guest speakers lining up at the Steyne tonight - excellent! Meanwhile, here's a few more good yarns ...

Water:       20º

Air:            17º

Wind:        Slight

Sky:          Overcast

Vis:           Still not the best

Plus:         Waves!

Below: Windcheater logo is a Grand Banks Monk Fish (Newfoundland Fisheries)

Below: Hemingway's bathroom in his Havana abode (1939-60) Finca Vigía

Below: Quiz

Notices:

The next B&B monthly dinner for the year will be held on Tuesday 11th May at 6.30 pm at Bluewater Restaurant. Our speaker for the night is a regular B&B swimmer whose identity will remain a mystery until the night. From his position as a high flying international corporate executive, we will follow his journey to homelessness as a result of a declining mental health. We are all touched by mental health issues, whether in ourselves, family and friends or just those we see on the streets of Manly. This really is a tale of courage and perseverance. You probably see our speaker most mornings at the beach and would never guess how important this morning ritual of exercise, friendship and community involvement has contributed to his recovery and ongoing happiness.

The cost of the dinner is great value at only $30 a head, which includes shared entrees, and a selection of mains to choose from (including a vegetarian option). Glasses of beer or wine and desserts are also available at the special price of only $5 each (please note, NO BYO). Bookings are essential, so to avoid disappointment and secure your spot please book at www.boldandbeautifulmanly.com.au/bb-bluewater-monthly-dinner.html

 

Monday 3rd May 2021 - Sister Sharks and B&B secret.

Sister sharks Clair & Ali.

My 5:36am swimming buddies.

Patrick & Mel.

Suzie & Jon @13 minutes before sunrise.

Two Simons.

Simon about to kiss Sean?

 

Luke Annora and Claire.

Buddies from Sth Africa.

Sam in the shadows of the drinkless express.

Buddies from Chile & Spain.

Sarge.

girls @6:32am.

Monday bootie.

17 minutes after sunrise.

Does one of these guys hold a B&B secret??

Have fun and stay safe

Simon

B&B monthly dinner – 11^th May 2021

 

The next B&B monthly dinner for the year will be held on Tuesday 11th May at 6.30 pm at Bluewater Restaurant. Our speaker for the night is a regular B&B swimmer whose identity will remain a mystery until the night. From his position as a high flying international corporate executive, we will follow his journey to homelessness as a result of a declining mental health. We are all touched by mental health issues, whether in ourselves, family and friends or just those we see on the streets of Manly. This really is a tale of courage and perseverance. You probably see our speaker most mornings at the beach and would never guess how important this morning ritual of exercise, friendship and community involvement has contributed to his recovery and ongoing happiness.

 

 

The cost of the dinner is great value at only $30 a head, which includes shared entrees, and a selection of mains to choose from (including a vegetarian option). Glasses of beer or wine and desserts are also available at the special price of only $5 each (please note, NO BYO). Bookings are essential, so to avoid disappointment and secure your spot please book at

 

each (please note, NO BYO). Bookings are essential, so to avoid disappointment and secure your spot please book atwww.boldandbeautifulmanly.com.au/bb-bluewater-monthly-dinner.html

 

Sunday 02 May 2021 A nod to the best day of the week

We’ve come a long way since May 02, 2020 – today’s sunrise may be just as stunning as year ago. But busy restaurants and the happy buzz of Manly food and wine festival today make us appreciate the contrasts to the lockdown back then.

 

Above:

Air temp at 7am: 16 degrees

Water: 20.2 degrees

Swimmers: 131

Above: A year ago the gulls were in serious need of a chip because all restaurants were in lockdown. Now are feathered friends are ready to swoop down on any snack on the beachfront. 

Above: Jo and Suzi loving a return of these Sundays where the community vibe is strong.

Above: Damien, Nicky and Elizabeth. Elizabeth was enthusiastic as ever about her swim despite being jimbled yesterday.

Above: John and Paul – John recently clocked up the big 4000 recently, Paul wished he had done a double instead of a single in these perfect conditions.

Above: Matt, Ed and Herman – what can be better than a Sunday swim?

Above:  Fantastic that Phil is back to swimming after a severe leg injury in a mountain biking accident on the Six Foot Track near Katoomba where he had to use his bike as a crutch to get out of the gorge.

Above: Sinead and Jen. Jen looks back on the past year as one where we have begun to realise the value of our freedom.

Above: Greg and Rusty. Rusty says the past year’s pandemic disruptions allowed him to focus more on family and community.

 

Above: Allan is back to making a regular trip to B&B from Berowa for his morning swim.

 

Remember those battling in other regions as you enjoy the beauty of our ocean.

Stay safe and healthy and remember it ain’t over till it’s over.

Oosty

 

Notices:

The next B&B monthly dinner for the year will be held on Tuesday 11th May at 6.30 pm at Bluewater Restaurant. Our speaker for the night is a regular B&B swimmer whose identity will remain a mystery until the night. From his position as a high flying international corporate executive, we will follow his journey to homelessness as a result of a declining mental health. We are all touched by mental health issues, whether in ourselves, family and friends or just those we see on the streets of Manly. This really is a tale of courage and perseverance. You probably see our speaker most mornings at the beach and would never guess how important this morning ritual of exercise, friendship and community involvement has contributed to his recovery and ongoing happiness.

The cost of the dinner is great value at only $30 a head, which includes shared entrees, and a selection of mains to choose from (including a vegetarian option). Glasses of beer or wine and desserts are also available at the special price of only $5 each (please note, NO BYO). Bookings are essential, so to avoid disappointment and secure your spot please book at www.boldandbeautifulmanly.com.au/bb-bluewater-monthly-dinner.html