Barker Rock Swim

Changes to the Annual Barker Rock Swim Format

Purpose

This memorandum informs the swimming community of changes to the format and scheduling of the annual Barker Rock Swim. The revised approach is intended to improve the likelihood of completing the swim around Barker Rock while maintaining appropriate safety standards.

Reason for the Change

In previous years, setting the event date well in advance has regularly resulted in sea and weather conditions that were not safe enough for swimmers to complete the intended route around Barker Rock. This has required the organisers to use an alternative course, reducing the opportunity to hold the event in its traditional format.

Revised Scheduling Approach

A defined event window will replace the single fixed date. During this period, the organising committee will monitor the marine forecast and schedule each swim day when conditions are expected to be suitable for the Barker Rock route. Participants will receive at least 48 hours’ notice of their scheduled swim day.

Event Format

  1. Swimmers will be placed in groups of up to 25, based on their expected swim speeds.
  2. The confirmed swim day and reporting details will be communicated at least 48 hours in advance.
  3. A maximum of two groups per day is recommended, subject to the forecast, available daylight, and the final safety assessment.

Safety Arrangements

  1. A safety crew will be stationed on the beach to coordinate departures, arrivals, communications, and any shore-based response.
  2. Three support boats will monitor swimmers and provide safety coverage on the water.
  3. Nutrition will be provided on the safety boats
  4. The organising committee and safety team will retain the authority to postpone, alter, or cancel a swim if conditions are assessed as unsuitable.

Participant Responsibilities

Swimmers should remain available during the event window, monitor the designated communication channel, and respond promptly when their group and swim day are confirmed. Further details regarding the window dates, group allocations, reporting times, and communication channel will be provided separately.

These changes are intended to preserve the character of the Barker Rock Swim while giving organisers the flexibility to select safer and more suitable conditions. We appreciate participants’ understanding and cooperation in implementing the revised format.