A different kind of start

Good morning everyone, and what a gorgeous morning it is. The past few days have been still and close – humid and not much wind. It almost feels as though late summer is holding its breath in anticipation of the transition towards autumn with its crisp, clear air and cool nights. Bring on the cool nights I say.

Today and tomorrow we start at Shelley because Manly is holding surf carnivals. I found it quite a relaxing start, with no parking hassles and a flat water entry.

The wows originally bagged a table but then decided to move closer down the beach for security.

 

Sir Laurence in waiting

 

This is Naomi (white cossie) who is getting married today and is doing a pre wedding swim. As one of our number said, enjoying her last day of freedom. Naomi also got to do the lets go and a fine job she did of it

Bright and happy and eager to swim.

The brush turkeys are probably wondering what happened. Don’t get too relaxed guys, we are back tomorrow

Who is this newbie? She looks familiar and I reckon she might be a good swimmer

 

Naomi waiting for her big moment and I mean doing the lets go

Here is Nat looking positively overjoyed to be in the water

JK scanning the surrounds and Roz looking on intently

More happiness on show. What’s going on?

Here’s Danny with another newbie. I’m sure I’ve seen him before too

I asked for names and can I remember? Sorry ladies!

At the point

 

 

Watching over us and reminding everyone not to swim in to Manly. Thank you!

The way back

I took the reverse scenic route in the hope of finding a fishy story.

These little stripeys were cute enough

But then I heard “It’s still alive” and I knew I had a David Attenborough moment

This cuttlefish had managed to snare a feed.

Not sure if I had the wrong camera setting for this photo or if it was trying to blend in with the seaweed.

 

I could have looked at the cuttlefish all day but sensed it wanted to get on with breakfast and moved on

This might look grim and I do feel sorry for the poor little fish, but this beautiful aquatic reserve we are so fortunate to swim in is a wilderness where for most of the species the struggle for survival is real.

Here are Rainer and Jo. Jo originally spotted the cuttlefish

These yellowtail could be holding a wake for their buddy.

On the way back I was lucky to spot this wobbegong hiding in the seaweed.

As I was leavingthe water I saw Sue and Lea. What are they trying to tell us?

 

Stats

390 swimmers
28 newbies
22.8 degrees

Enjoy the rest of your Saturday.

On SSunday 28^th January, our swim will commence and end at Shelly Beach at 7 am. This is necessary due to Surf Carnivals being held at Manly SLSC. Please do NOT leave your belongings at the surf club, as they will obstruct the running of the events.

Due to the large number of swimmers this weekend, we urge you to take particular care in the water. Remember, we are not racing; we are here to enjoy our swim. Please be mindful of our swimming etiquette, and avoid swimming on top of other swimmers. If you do collide with someone else, please stop and make sure that they are not injured. Let’s make this a great weekend for all involved.

Summer 10km swim
The proposed date for the next 10km swim is Saturday 10 February at 7 am. 

Swimmers are required to bring their own food/drink requirements which can be left at Manly.

The swim is dependent on suitable ocean/weather conditions.

Remember to be sensible as no badge is worth putting yourself and others in danger

Monthly Dinner – 13^th February 2018 – Guest Speakers

The first B&B monthly dinner for the year will be held on Tuesday 13th February at 6.30 pm at Bluewater Restaurant. The guest speakers on the night will be Dr Ezequiel “Ziggy” Marzinelli and Dr Adriana Verges from the Sydney Institute of Marine Science(SIMS). SIMS, in partnership with Dorset Sutton and Jenny Lim Sutton and the Manly community, propose to undertake Operation Crayweed Manly, a project to restore lost underwater forests in Manly, in particular a type of seaweed called Crayweed, which provides critical habitat for crayfish (Eastern Rock Lobster) and abalone. Ideally the restoration would take place in Cabbage Tree Bay, as an iconic and beloved place under the watchful gaze of a community of custodians who care and love this exceptional marine environment. However this will depend on gaining community support and approval from NSW Department of Primary Industries (Fisheries) due to Cabbage Tree Bay’s status as an Aquatic Reserve. The project team are keen to talk with the B&B community, as people who love and use Cabbage Tree Bay, to hear your thoughts and seek your support for this project.

The cost of the dinner is great value at only $25 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. Numbers are limited, so bookings are essential:  To avoid disappointment and secure your spot please book HERE.

 While BB swims this will never be how Shelly Beach looks