January 1 - 31, 2025: Issue 638

 

Bilgola SLSC’s Billy Swims 2025 swum and won: part Pittwater Ocean Swims Series

The second offering in the Pittwater Ocean Swim series, Bilgola SLSC’s 'Billy Swims', were run on Sunday January 12 on beautiful Bilgola beach with support from sister surf clubs on water safety duty.

Mayor Sue Heins, Mackellar MP Dr. Sophie Scamps along with Bilgola SLSC Member and Patron John Brogden AM were on hand to support surf club members, led by Bilgola’s President, Peter Fenley. 

Swimmers were able to compete in the 500m or 1.5km events, or complete both for those looking for an even greater challenge.

Mayor Heins welcomed swimmers to the beach, thanking them for their support of the local surf clubs in enjoying these swims and hoping they were enjoying the weather.

After a few days of rain, balmy warm breezes and clear skies shone above participants. 

Dr. Scamps, who joined in the first swim, wished all those taking the longer plunge a great swim and thanked them for being a part of the ocean swim series and supporting Bilgola surf club volunteers to look after others on the beach.

Mayor Sue Heins, Bilgola SLSC Member and Patron John Brogden AM, Mackellar MP Dr. Sophie Scamps

Romilly Madew, Bilgola SLSC’s media officer, said after the event;

‘’ What a brilliant day - our 459 legendary swimmers had the best of the best - sunny weather, warm waters, gentle breeze and a small swell. 

Our volunteer and VIP crew were in fine form with Sue, Sophie and Rebecca on the starter horn, Lance our carpark concierge, Triona on transport, Manny on the Jet Ski, Ian on the mike, SRCs out on boards, crews in IRBs and a surfboat, Dave, Dan and Dougal on the BBQ, Rosie and Penny selling merch, and so, so many more. 

Our standout volunteer Nikki Curtin, deserves a special mention. Nikki has worked tirelessly for the last six months ensuring Sunday ran like clockwork. From the Club and Community, thank you SO very much for your stellar efforts, you are a superstar! 

A huge thanks and congratulations to everyone who contributed to create an amazing day. Even a burst water main couldn’t hold us back! ‘’

Bilgola Surf Life Saving Club was formed in the Summer of 1949 when a small band of locals commenced patrols on Bilgola Beach. In 1950 work commenced on the clubhouse, which was constructed of sandstone. The original clubhouse had a hall with boat shed and toilet facilities. 

The 75th Annual General Meeting of Bilgola Surf Life Saving Club Incorporated took place at the clubhouse on Sunday 25th August 2024.

A history of the formation of the club was compiled by Pittwater Online News after interviewing founding Life Member and past President David Lyall PSM ESMM FAIB (R.I.P.). 

That’s available here.

Unfortunately conditions this week have led to the cancellation of Mona Vale SLSC's Pittwater Ocean Swims for the 2025 series.

However, a few photos from last Sunday's 2025 Billy Swims runs below to keep you in the swing for next Sunday's Big Swim on January 26th - from Palm Beach to Whale Beach.

First 3 back to the beach:

500mtrs
Male

Pos Category Name Time

1 11-19 Nathan WILLIAMS (#345) 00:07:43

2 11-19 Bodi BONE (#241) 00:08:05

3 11-19 Jack WILKINSON (#344) 00:08:05

Female

Pos Category Name Time

1 11-19 Ivy GERSTNER (#272) 00:09:02

2 11-19 Zannah DIXON (#366) 00:09:05

3 11-19 Emma CHERRY (#249) 00:09:10

1.5km
Male

Pos Category Name Time

1 13-19 Bodi BONE (#24) 00:20:54

2 13-19 Jack WILKINSON (#231) 00:21:08

3 13-19 George ABBOTT (#1) 00:21:10

Female

Pos Category Name Time

1 13-19 Ivy GERSTNER (#79) 00:23:08

2 13-19 Emma CHERRY (#45) 00:24:09

3 13-19 Mia HAMPTON (#90) 00:25:05

All Bilgola SLSC’s Billy Swims 2025 results are available at: https://www.multisportaustralia.com.au/races/bilgola-ocean-swim-2025 

PON's Bilgola SLSC's 2025 Billy Ocean Swims Album photos are available at: flic.kr/s/aHBqjBXToX for participants and the surf club's own family albums.  NB: there will be some 'fuzzies' among this lot.